Engine Swap Project: BMW E46 M3 with a LS3 V8

Meet Ash Burrows, a fervent BMW enthusiast whose E46 M3 is no ordinary ride. After a spirited track day ended with the car’s S54 inline-six engine tossing a rod, Ash decided it was time for an upgrade rather than a simple fix. Entrusted to the capable hands of Craig Taylor at DynoTorque, this red coupe was about to get a heart transplant that would make any BMW purist's pulse race—a swap to a more robust 6.2 L LS3 V8, pushing a formidable 550 horsepower.

This isn't just any V8. Decked out with a Texas Speed Stage 4 camshaft, Comp Cams springs and titanium retainers, a FAST intake manifold, and a bespoke stainless steel exhaust crafted by DynoTorque, this engine is a symphony of power tuned to perfection. Managed by an Emerald ECU, it's built to deliver exhilarating performance.

But why stop there? DynoTorque didn’t just revamp the engine. They replaced the factory BMW transmission with a beefier TR6060 six-speed manual, complemented by an LS7 clutch and a cooler to keep things running smoothly during the heat of track days. A custom driveshaft ensures that every ounce of power reaches the rear wheels without a hitch.

Handling this much power requires an equally impressive setup for control. The M3’s agility is enhanced by KW V3 shocks, Tom Schirmer springs, and Powerflex bushings. To bring this beast to a halt, it’s equipped with AP Racing Pro 5000R calipers clamping down on 368 mm rotors, all tucked neatly behind striking Eneki NT03 wheels (18×10).

Categories Involved in the Modification:

Engine Upgrade

Transmission System

Cooling System

Drive System

Suspension and Handling

Braking System