When many BMW fans think of “JDM” style, or Japanese tuning approaches to BMW cars, they think of relatively fashion forward, loud styling. Large race wings, curvaceous widebody kits, and wild colors typically come as no surprise when looking at BMWs modified with a Japanese influence. The E92 M3 you see before you today is interesting specifically because of its owner’s ability to blend Japanese influence and style with an excellent degree of moderation. The modifications performed are so subtle, that the average BMW enthusiast may not even notice the dedication to JDM style BMW tuning displayed in these photos.
We immediately understood our client’s unique approach to modifying his E92 when he mentioned rare items like “Ericsson offset” BBS LM-R wheels, Bride Gias seats, and Cusco harnesses. Although each item can be added to any car when considered individually, when pieces like that are combined in a single M3 the intention becomes quite clear.
Rather than add a Varis wing and diffuser, or choose bright highlight colors on the wheels and brakes, our client elected to pursue a more subtle overall feel by using a Mode Carbon front lip and rear spoiler, and Brembo calipers custom finished in a custom red with classic Brembo logos in-house at IND. The BBS LM-R wheels retain their gunmetal face, in spite of their very aggressive offsets for an understated appearance. Fall Line’s roll bar was painted Alpine White to safely retain the Cusco harnesses while blending with this E92’s exterior. The ESS Tuning intake manifold got the same Alpine White treatment to match, allowing the ESS kit to breathe new life into the S65 engine while also bringing the clean Alpine White exterior color into the engine bay.
IND helped to round out this M3 with BMW Edition side grilles, an Alpine White keyhole cover, carbon fiber front grilles and hood vents, and carbon fiber BMW Performance mirror covers with our own “M5 style” paint scheme. Ohlins Road & Track dampers give the M3 a near telepathic level of turn in response while maintaining everyday usability, and an Akrapovic Evolution exhaust system finishes off the M3’s personality by giving an amazing V8 growl and simultaneously maintaining restraint over a fully open exhaust system.
It is always a pleasure to work with a client who has carefully considered the feel and style of the BMW M that they wish to build. This E92 M3 is truly special for that reason- our client has created an M car that is at once understated and unique, combining rare Japanese tuning parts with the best available from BMW tuners worldwide to create the ultimate expression of subtle JDM style.
