Cool reinterpretation: CAtuned BMW E30 M3 with Honda power!

Thomas Wachsmuth 5 December 2023 -> Cars from AZ, -> Tuner from AZ, BMW, CAtuned, Premium vehicles, Tuning classics

Reading time 4 Min.

In the world of tuning lovers, the CAtuned BMW E30 M3 caused a stir - a classic with a surprising twist. Actually equipped with the legendary S14 in-line four-cylinder, this example was limited to 600 units Sport Evolution Series from the experts of CAtuned radically rebuilt under the leadership of Igor Polishchuk. They replaced the S14Motor through a Honda K24, which is known in the tuning scene for its tuning options and performance. The heart of the special E30 M3 is the extensively modified one K24 from Honda. Originally with a displacement of 2,4 liters, CAtuned has it up 2,6 liters expanded. The adaptation was carried out through a comprehensive Stroker Kit achieved, including one Sport crankshaft and H-beam connecting rods by Crower, CP piston and ported Cylinder heads.

CAtuned BMW E30 M3

Additional mods like new ones Storages, camshafts and Skunk2 timing chain tensioner increase the performance and reliability of the engine. The fuel supply is also carried out by ID 1050x-Injectors ensured while a Nuke Catch Can , and a Catuned aluminum cooler ensure optimal operating temperatures with an electric Spal fan. The control takes over Link engine control unit with one Custom wiring harness, and the exhaust consists of 3 inch stainless steel pipes. In addition to the engine, the chassis of the M3 was of course also extensively pimped.

Incidentally, the power is now transmitted via a ZF five-speed manual transmission , and a Wavetrac differential and ensures improved delay values CAtuned brake kit with AP Racing components, including four-piston calipers and slotted brake discs. Were supplemented Stainless steel brake lines installed and there are two master cylinders while the brake booster was removed. We came for the suspension tuning CAtuned threaded spring struts and ST stabilizers was used, and the subframes and trailing arms were installed PU bushings converted.

Visual accents with JDM and DTM elements

Visually the CAtuned combines E30 M3 various elements from Japanese and German tuning culture and it also stands up 17-inch Volk Racing TE37SL alloy wheels from Rays with finish in Graphite and accents in red. The body received subtle but effective refinements such as a Custom rubber spoiler lip, Carbon rear apron approaches and DTM look rearview mirror made of carbon. A special highlight is the big one DTM style flap on the rear spoiler, supplemented by an additional spoiler, black Custom taillights and Hella headlights in dark cases.

Interior: Sporty and elegant

The unique styling naturally continues in the interior. There is space for the driver and front passenger Scheelmann Sportline R seats with a classic black and white Pepita design and a Car power roll bar provides additional safety and a touch of motorsport flair. Everything is complemented by a M Technik 2 sports steering wheel with velor cover and lightweight carbon door panels. The instrument panel was also through CAtuned custom round instruments and new panels for the B-pillars were completed. The CAtuned E30 M3 with Honda heart was a highlight at the SEMA Show 2022, where he was admired by many. The unique piece shows how creative technology and design can be used to reinterpret an icon and make it relevant for the modern world.

Component	Specifications and details
Year	1989
Brake	CAtuned AP Racing racing brake kit, with four-piston calipers on slotted discs, Chase Bays kit, two master cylinders, CAtuned stainless steel brake lines, no brake booster
Suspension	CAtuned Street coilover struts, CAtuned PU bushings in subframes & trailing arms, ST stabilizers
inner space	M Technik 2 steering wheel (velor cover), CAtuned custom fittings, Scheelmann Sportline R seats, new rear seat covers, CAtuned carbon door panels, CAtuned B-pillar covers, CAtuned carbon parcel shelf, Auto Power -Roll bar
Body	CAtuned Hella headlights, inner headlight is an air intake, radiator grille from the EU model, CAtuned DTM carbon exterior mirrors, CAtuned custom taillights, CAtuned rear apron approaches, CAtuned DTM rear spoiler including carbon flap, CAtuned rear splitter, CAtuned custom front spoiler lip, CAtuned carbon front splitter
power transmission	Five-speed ZF manual transmission, Wavetrac differential (STIM Technologies cover)
Motor	Honda K24 inline four, TF engine mounts, displacement expanded to 2,6 liters with a stroker kit consisting of a Crower 4340 crankshaft, Crower H-beam connecting rods, CP pistons, CNC ported cylinder heads, ACL Race bearings, ARP head bolts, Honda timing components, Honda gaskets, Big Bore MLS head gaskets, custom camshafts, K Series oil pump, as well as a Skunk2 timing chain tensioner and a Supertech Racing valve and valve spring kit with titanium valve spring retainers , Vibrant lines, CAtuned aluminum radiator with CAtuned brackets, CAtuned coolant hoses, Spal electric fan with CAtuned brackets & CAtuned silicone hoses, Link engine control unit, custom engine wiring harness, CAtuned Custom 3 Inch exhaust system (stainless steel), Darton cylinder liners, honed cylinders, finely balanced components, magnesium valve covers, Pracworks carbon intake, ID 1050x injectors, Nuke-Catch Can,
wheel/tyre	Rays Volk Racing TE37SL alloy wheels (17 inches), finish in Pressed Graphite (details/stickers), aluminum valves, no hub caps, Toyo tires (215/40R17 & 225/45ZR17)