We’re kicking off a new build series at R44 Performance, following the ongoing transformation of a customer’s BMW E92 M3 from a clean, stock car into a properly sorted clubsport build.
This car belongs to a customer called Neil, and the aim from the outset is to create something that feels special on the road, inspires confidence behind the wheel, and is a blast on track. We’re taking a staged approach, starting with the areas that make the biggest difference to how the car drives.
The Car
- BMW E92 M3
- Around 30,000 miles
- Very clean, well looked-after example
- Wrapped in Saturn XPEL Frozen PPF and ceramic coated
- All gloss exterior parts freshly repainted
- Running Competition wheels and Competition back box
The condition of the car really sets the tone for the project. It’s the kind of example where everything still feels tight and fresh, which means every part going on needs to earn its place. It almost seems too nice to modify, but Neil wanted the best foundation possible.
Episode 1 - Stock to Clubsport Foundations
For the first episode, the focus is on laying the foundations. Rather than jumping straight into power, we’re concentrating on the chassis, braking, and overall control first. This is where a clubsport build really starts to take shape.
Front-End & Exterior
Up front, a GTS-style front lip has been fitted. It’s a simple change, but it makes a big difference to the look of the car. E9X M3 clubsport builds need a front lip, and this ties the front end together nicely for now, ahead of more exterior changes later in the build.
Suspension & Geometry
This is where the biggest transformation is happening.
The car is being set up on Moton 3-way suspension, running a true coilover configuration front and rear. This gives a huge amount of adjustment while keeping everything compact and easy to work with. The remote canisters are being mounted neatly to really look the part under the bonnet.
To keep the car usable day to day, front air cups are being installed. These allow the front of the car to be lifted when needed, which makes a big difference on speed bumps and rough roads without taking away from how the car drives when it’s lowered.
We’re also fitting MOTON solid front control arm bushes, which remove a lot of unwanted movement under braking and hard cornering. AST adjustable drop links are going in alongside the suspension, keeping things adjustable while still retaining dust boots to help control noise over time.
At the rear, Millway adjustable toe arms are being added so the alignment can be properly dialled in. This gives better stability and much finer control over the rear geometry once the car is on the alignment rack.
Braking System
Brakes are another key focus at this stage of the build.
The car is being upgraded to AP Racing Pro 5000 R callipers front and rear, paired with two-piece floating front discs. On the rear, OEM 2NH brake discs are being retained, which work really well with this setup and keep replacement costs sensible.
To complete the system, we’re running Pagid RSL29 pads, HEL braided brake lines, and Motul RBF 660 fluid. The goal here is strong, consistent braking that still behaves properly on the road.
What’s Coming Next?
This first phase is all about getting the fundamentals right, but there’s plenty more to come.
The next episodes will cover:
- Interior changes including fixed-back seats, rear cage, and rear seat delete
- Engine bay and intake upgrades
- Stage 2 tuning
- Final touches
We’ll keep this thread updated alongside each video so the full build can be followed as it progresses. We’d love to see some of your Clubsport builds, as we know the E92 is a trackday favourite. What mods are you guys running & what have you found to make the biggest difference from a handling perspective?
We’ll also be giving you some more detailed feedback on the modifications once the build is complete. Lots of these components are new additions to our catalogue, so we’re just as interested as you to see how they perform beyond their great reputation.
More to come soon.
