FYI: Europe’s unrivaled BMW gathering, BimmerFest Europe 2024, recently showcased at Raceway Venrij in the Netherlands, mesmerized auto enthusiasts with an impressive display of BMW legends.
Last week, we delivered an extensive review of BimmerFest Europe 2024, the preeminent BMW event in Europe, hosted at Raceway Venrij in the Netherlands.
In this edition, I present my top three standout vehicles from the event. Selecting just three out of the plethora of extraordinary BMWs wasn’t easy, but I decided on a diverse trio spanning three eras—a classic from the ‘80s, a gem from the ‘90s, and a contemporary model with a nostalgic essence. Let’s dive in…
Mark van den Berg’s Alpine White BMW E28
Mark van den Berg’s Alpine White E28 has become a fixture at European car meets, primarily due to its subtle yet sophisticated modifications. Initially, it presents itself as a standard E28, apart from its lowered stance and fresh paintwork. However, upon closer inspection, discerning details emerge that true E28 enthusiasts will appreciate.
Unique Modifications:
- Single Headlight Conversion: This daring modification, executed by Mark himself, includes a customized grille likely produced using a 3D printer. This bespoke grille houses an M5 front spoiler, eliminating the number plate recess for a cleaner look.
- Engine Swap: Under the hood lies an M54B30 engine paired with a five-speed transmission from an E46. The meticulous engine bay setup showcases Mark’s craftsmanship, featuring a custom wiring harness, trunk-based battery relocation, and a 3D-printed air box covered in carbon fiber.
- Wheel and Suspension Upgrades: Schmidt TH Lines wheels (18×8" front, 18×9.5" rear) are accommodated by newly welded E24 6-Series wheel arches. GAZ Gold coilovers paired with custom spindle risers enhance ride height and handling.
Mark’s E28 epitomizes a blend of precision and innovation, with each modification reflecting exceptional attention to detail and craftsmanship.
GP Products’ Modern Tribute: BMW M2 GT
GP Products from the Netherlands captivated audiences with their BMW M2 GT, a homage to the revered E36 M3 GT. Introduced in 1994 as a homologation model for the FIA GT series, the E36 M3 GT remains a holy grail among BMW aficionados with its British Racing Green livery and robust performance.
Tribute and Transformation:
- Aesthetic Enhancements: Painting the G87-series BMW M2 in British Racing Green sets the tone, complemented by a carbon hood, Version 4 fenders, spoiler, custom grille, and a diffuser, all sourced from Alpha-N.
- Performance Upgrades: The car boasts a turbocharger from Ladermanufaktur, producing up to 1,000 horsepower, an Akrapovič titanium exhaust system, and a CSF aluminum intake manifold paired with an Eventuri air intake kit.
- Wheels and Bike Match: HRE’s Vintage Series wheels (20×10" front, 21×11" rear) and a matching BMW M1000R bike styled after the classic E36 M3 GT complete the visual harmony.
GP Products’ M2 GT and its companion M1000R bike merge contemporary performance with classic styling, promising to enthrall BMW enthusiasts for years.
Unlimited Auto’s Radical Creation: BMW E36 V12 Turbo
Z Performance Wheels featured a stellar lineup, but the show-stealer was undoubtedly the red BMW E36 from Unlimited Auto in Weiden, Germany. This beast is a fine example of boundless automotive ingenuity.
Engine and Performance:
- Heart of a Beast: Replacing the standard engine, this E36 houses a V12 M70 engine, originally from the E31 850CSi. The spacious engine bay accommodates twin BorgWarner S366 SX-E turbos, yielding a staggering 1,012 PS and 1182 Nm of torque.
- Flawless Installation: The symmetry and placement within the engine bay exhibit a near-perfect aesthetic and mechanical integration.
Exterior and Chassis:
- Custom Wide-Body Kit: The bespoke wide-body kit enhances the E36’s inherently sharp lines, providing an aggressive yet cohesive look.
- Robust Setup: Carline CM6 wheels (19×10" front, 19×12" rear) with 305mm rear tires, paired with KW Suspension’s V3 shocks and H&R stabilizer bars, illustrate the vehicle’s capability to balance show-stopping looks with high-performance driving.
Unlimited Auto’s red E36 not only steals the spotlight but stands as a testament to their exceptional craftsmanship and innovative spirit.
BimmerFest Europe 2024 offered a spectacular showcase of BMW artistry and engineering. From classic restorations to modern marvels, each vehicle highlighted the creativity and dedication of their makers. For more insights and updates, connect with us on Twitter @automotivefyi, email at tips@automotive.fyi, or visit Automotive.fyi.
Donald Smith, Editor of Automotive.fyi
