Blog Posts
Feb 2, 2022
by Jarryd Neves Offbeat / 4 Comments
We're pretty sure this isn't what BMW had in mind for the E36 3 Series.
When BMW introduced the E36 Coupe, it intended on creating a sporty yet premium two-door car that would deliver sheer driving pleasure to a hoard of up-and-coming yuppies fixated with image and power. With 138 horsepower on tap, the 318is wasn't exactly the most powerful offering but at least it offered good looks and all the accouterments a BMW driver could want. These days, it's the BMW 4 Series that fills this role in the brand's lineup.
While this example certainly started out as a businessman's pride and joy, its life has taken a turn for the unexpected. With all-terrain tires, custom-made wheels, and a stainless steel plate to protect the undercarriage, this E36 has been given a new lease on life, the German coupe is more at home on rugged terrain than in the executive parking lot.
For sale on Belgian auction site Vavato, the off-roading E36 boasts its original (albeit worn) Hellrot Red paintwork, the bumpers eschewed in favor of custom-made push bars. The side skirts have also been axed, replaced by an outer roll cage that stretches across the roof and rear window of the 318is. This is also where the large spare tire is housed.
Affectionately known as "Stampertjie", stickers on either side of the bushwhacking Bimmer identify this vehicle well in case the misaligned body panels and several dents didn't already inform you that this was a unique creation.
Under the skin, the E36 borrows steering arms from the newer E92 model, joined by modified wishbones and lifting blocks. Round back, E46-generation springs work together with the E85 X3 SUV's shock absorbers and upgraded wishbones. What's more, a waterproof snorkel ensures this BMW doesn't stop when confronted with water. Lastly, a new clutch, custom exhaust, and hydraulic handbrake have also been fitted.
Inside, the leather and soft-touch materials have made way for a spartan cabin. In the name of weight saving, the carpets and sound deadening material have been removed, with a three-spoke steering wheel and racing seats the only interesting additions (aside from that massive handbrake lever, of course). This will likely be of very little concern to this E36's next owner, who will very likely thrash it on the nearest off-roading course.
With all the work put into this creation, one would assume this safari-spec 318is would fetch decent money. With the auction closing on February 3, the unique BMW's current bid sits at just €1,300 ($1,450). A bargain or a financial mistake? We'll leave that up to you.
