Across this forum and on social media, everyone loves a brightly-coloured BMW Individual M3 with an Adro front bumper and 1,000 horsepower. We get it we do too!This build, however, was curated to be the perfect daily driver with an incredible specification, blistering performance and an exhilarating driving experience without drawing too much attention to itself or compromising the practicality of the Touring body style.
For many BMW enthusiasts, this would make the perfect daily driver!
Why did Barry (the owner) choose the M3 Touring as his base?
I always wanted to have an M3. So many years of watching people create M3 Tourings rather than BMW building one. Then BMW announced the G81 and I came across a cancelled order at my local dealership and the spec was perfect.
*Clearly not perfect enough as we start going through the mods
Check out the full detailed mods list: https://r44performance.com/collectio…fications-list
PERFORMANCE
Well start with the performance upgrades and tuning.
Although theres no single turbo kit and no built engine under the hood, this M3 benefits from the R44 x Tom Wrigley Performance Stage 2 package, delivering an impressive 630 wheel horsepower and 800 Nm torque. Thats plenty for daily use and probably too much for the wet and greasy roads here in the UK.
Most importantly, the throttle response is sharper and the ZF 8-speed transmission has been mapped to speed up gear changes and respond faster to inputs.
To support this package, we fitted our signature R44 titanium cat-back exhaust system and 200 Cell sports cat downpipes. This combination gives an aggressive tone without the anti-social sound youd get with catless downpipes.
We asked Barry what his favourite modification was so far:
My favourite mod at the moment has to be the R44 exhaust. Even before stage 2, it completely brought the car to life.
To keep everything cool, this M3 Touring is equipped with CSFs front mount heat exchanger, engine oil cooler and ZF8 transmission cooler. Crucially, the CSF upgraded items are made from aluminum instead of plastic with additional rock guards to ensure reliability with daily driving. The factory radiators are completely exposed and youre always one large rock away from disaster.
EXTERIOR
Exterior-wise, the cars been transformed with an array of carbon fiber upgrades from MHC LDN. The owner, Barry, opted for the iconic SP1 front lipthe first carbon splitter for the G8X platform to become available to the public. Nearly four years on, it still looks amazing. The carbon twin fin front ducts and GT front grille add the aggression the stock front bumper lacks.
A subtle detail youd be forgiven for missing is how the twin fin ducts line up with the two creases in the SP1. Its this attention to detail that sets MHC apart from other carbon companies on the market.
You may also notice the LCI front headlights. Despite Barrys car not being a 2025 model year, we retrofitted the CS LCI headlights to his car to replace the regular LED headlights he had. Install requires some minor coding, and we can connect you with a reliable BMW coder when you purchase a set. Being the CS version, the rear of the lights is tinted, which looks far more aggressive than the silver. The DRLs can also be yellow while stationary, which is another cool feature.
Around the side of the car, Barry opted for the MHC LDN SK1 carbon side skirts which flow into the SS1 rear side splitters. This low-line kit gives any G8X M3/M4 a more imposing stance, especially when the car is lowered. He also opted for full-replacement MHC carbon side badges which are a nice touch.
SUSPENSION & WHEELS
Speaking of which, Barrys G81 is dropped on a set of KW V3 coilovers which have absolutely transformed the handling. Not only do they lower the cars centre of gravity and offer lots of adjustability, but they dramatically improve steering feel – something modern M cars have lost through electronic assistance.
Now might be a good time to mention the wheels. This is a set of staggered 20+21 Vossen HF5 forged alloy wheels finished in gloss black. They follow the blacked-out theme and reduce unsprung masssomething you really notice from behind the wheel.
Luke from Geobyluke did an alignment and sorted all the suspension geometry to ensure this new setup was ready for Barry to enjoy.
FINAL EXTERIOR MODIFICATIONS
At the rear, we find the MHC LDN DF1 LED rear diffuser, again finished in pre-preg carbon fiber. Above is the combination of SOOQOOs upper and lower rear trunk spoilers. Altogether, these carbon pieces create a far more aggressive look than stock.
Final touches on the exterior include a set of 50th Anniversary roundels and some gloss carbon AP arch guards.
If you thought the exterior mods were extensive, wait until you see the detail Barry went into when customizing his cars interior and engine bay. Its amazing how many small intricate components you can install on these cars to set them apart.
INTERIOR
As you climb into the car, the first thing you notice is the SHFT flat-bottom carbon fiber and Alcantara steering wheel with the integrated LED display. Not only does this wheel look far more special than the OEM item, but its ergonomically superior with moulded grips and premium materials. Reach to change gear and youll feel the JQ Werks magnetic paddle shifters which have an engaging and satisfying click. JQs updated design added some billet aluminum behind the carbon which adds a solid, weighted feel.
To further make the cabin a bit more premium, there are several aftermarket carbon fiber upgrades including the SHFT central air vent trim, seat base trims and full carbon seatback covers.
Additionally, there are numerous OEM M Performance modifications including the Alcantara armrest, knee pad set and LCI centre console model designation trim.
One of the more unique upgrades was Barrys decision to swap out the OEM plastic hood latch release handle with a less flimsy billet item from Carbonex. Its little touches like these that add a feeling of quality throughout the build.
ENGINE BAY
Pop that hood and youll find the stunning Eventuri gloss carbon fiber engine cover, MHC LDN carbon slam panel cover, Indiv carbon ECU cover as well as the discontinued Motech strut brace dressed with Downstar red billet hardware. To complete the engine bay, we fitted the Goldenwrench BLACKLINE S58 engine cap cover set. These are great value and really quick to install.
BRAKES
With so much time and effort put into this example, ensuring it stops before the tree is very important. Slowing down 630 whp is no problem for the new MMX 2-piece floating brake discs paired with EBCs popular Bluestuff pads providing great bite and improved pedal feel.
FUTURE PLANS
Before making this post, we actually texted owner Barry if he had any future modification plans for the car. He responded carbon hood, carbon fenders – to the moon
Theres honestly nothing we enjoy more than seeing a customer, whos worked incredibly hard, get to enjoy building their dream BMW – exactly the way they want it down to the finest details. If youd like to see us feature more customer builds, let us know!
Dont forget, you can find the full spec list here: https://r44performance.com/collectio…fications-list
YOUTUBE EPISODES: