2024 Tuning 365 - Formula Drift Seattle - Driver's choice winner
The E36 M3 was ahead of its time, with perfect balance and style. But for Alex Tran, it wasn鈥檛 enough. He opted to trade perfect 1990s OEM balance for an S54 engine transplant to really set his car apart. A shaved and tucked engine bay shows off the hard work in a beautiful way. The S54 itself was kept relatively simple to maximize reliability and driving time, with further emphasis placed on presentation and supporting mods. A final 330-wheel horsepower number is plenty for this timeless classic.
Tran鈥檚 鈥渓ess is more鈥� approach to exterior styling goes a long way to preserve the aura of the E36 M3 with a nice, modified touch. The interior is intentionally motorsports-inspired. Many have modified the E36 M3 over the years, but few have done it as tastefully as Alex Tran. His efforts and vision earned him the Driver鈥檚 Choice award from Dylan Hughes at Tuning365 Seattle in 2024.
Location: Everett, WA
Horsepower: 330 whp
Club: Team Overtake
SOCIAL:
IG: @ruthless.spec
ENGINE:
S54 engine swap
CSL carbon intake
Euro catless header
Radium (fuel rail, fuel gauge)
Shaved and tucked engine bay
EXHAUST:
Eisenmann Race muffler
WHEELS / TIRES / BRAKES:
BBS LM wheels
Porsche 996 Brembo brakes
CHASSIS / SUSPENSION:
BC Coilovers
Complete poly suspension bushings
TMS front and rear sway bars
OMP front strut bar
EXTERIOR:
Reiger GT front lip
Fancywide V2 diffuser
LTW GT wing
Gurney flap
OEM Bosch headlights
INTERIOR:
Recaro pole position seats
Half roll cage
RTD chassis mounted shifter
Takata ASM harnesses
Full BBS LM spare wheel
Carbon LTW style interior trim
AEM gauges
Ecliptech P2 shift light
AUDIO / MOBILE ELECTRONICS:
CarPlay head unit
SPONSORS:
BC Coilovers
Karbonius
Golden Wrench Supply
