Manhart Racing reveals V10 powered BMW M3 Estate

While BMW doesn’t officially offer an M3 Estate, Manhart Racing has given the standard 3-Series Estate an upgrade package to give it M3-like levels of performance. The twist here is that Manhart opted to shoehorn into the engine bay the 5.0-litre V10 from the BMW M5, instead of the M3’s 4.0-litre V8.

Additionally, the M3 Estate has revised engine electronics and a HJS stainless-steel exhaust system with two 200-cell racing catalytic convertors, which combine to give a total power output of 550bhp. With several BMW M-Performance parts added, such as the seven-speed SMG transmission and 100% limited slip differential from the M5, and he axles and steering system come from the M3, the M3 Estate can go from 0-100km/h in 4.3 seconds, reaching a top speed of 324km/h.

Other performance upgrades include a Bilstein PSS10 coil-over suspension, a Stoptech braking system with six-piston callipers and 380mm brake discs up front and four-piston callipers and 355mm brake discs for the rears and RÄD Monza three-part forged wheels wrapped in Hankook S1 Evo tires.

Externally, Manhart Racing has chosen the discreet route, with only a typical M3 bodykit to distinguish the car from lesser 3-Series Estates. The interior has been outfitted with leather and Alcantara upholstery, carbon fibre trim, and heated sport seats.