F20C Swapped E30 M3 Sounds Amazing Flying Around the Nürburgring

Embracing Unconventional Upgrades

When it comes to the revered E30 M3, purists often advocate for preserving its historical integrity, discouraging engine swaps. However, the scarcity of parts and high costs—upwards of $15,000—for rebuilding the original 2.3-liter S14 engine might push enthusiasts toward alternative solutions. Notably, the 2.0-liter Honda F20C from the S2000 has emerged as a compelling, albeit unconventional, replacement due to its lightweight build and rev-happy nature.

Source: Youtube / Misha Charoudin

Power of Fusion

In a captivating display featured on Misha Charoudin's YouTube channel, an E30 M3 was showcased, housing the Honda F20C engine, renowned for its 9,000 RPM capability. This engine, known for its peaky and spirited performance, resonates as a spiritual successor to BMW's S14, embodying a similar free-revving character and power delivery at the higher ends of the tachometer.

Unraveling the Track-Tested Experience

During the Nurburgring run, the F20C-powered E30 M3 delivered an electrifying performance, despite its cylinder deficit compared to high-performance variants. The lightweight nature of the F20C and its integration, positioning the engine 11.8 inches further back, facilitated optimized weight distribution, enhancing the car's agility and balance on the track.

Transformation Details

Owner Tomasz Chmielewski highlighted the F20C engine's stock output of around 240 horsepower, emphasizing that speed isn't solely reliant on horsepower figures but also on weight. Weighing a mere 2,094 lbs, the E30 M3's power-to-weight ratio promises a thrilling driving experience. The car's modifications include Michelin Sport 4 tires, BBS wheels, Sparco bucket seats, safety harnesses, and a six-speed manual transmission.

Performance and Potential

Charoudin's Nurburgring test revealed the F20C-powered M3's potential, boasting a top speed of 156 mph and demonstrating impressive maneuverability thanks to its ideal weight distribution. Suggestions for enhanced braking to boost confidence and lap times hint at further potential for refinement in the build.

Match Made in Heaven?

Looking beyond the showcased transformation, the possibilities of tweaking and optimizing an S2000-powered E30 M3 are intriguing. Examples like Formula Drift Pro driver Faruk Kugay's F20C-powered BMW 318i highlight the engine's potential, raising questions about the untapped performance in the fusion of these automotive legends.