It is secure to say that Mitsuoka fans may be the one ones who would actually recognize such modifications on an entry-level BMW from the early 2000s
3 hours in the past
A modified BMW 3-Sequence E46 Compact was just lately noticed in Ukraine as a DIY reverse restomod venture with a questionable end result. The unknown builder seems to have drawn inspiration from the work of the Japanese firm Mitsuoka, incorporating retro-inspired parts into the entrance and rear sections of the compact rear-wheel drive hatch.
With no signal of comparable vehicles on-line, it looks like this could possibly be a one-of-a-kind creation relatively than a package supplied by a tuner. Whereas we are able to recognize the builder’s enthusiasm, it’s secure to say that the ensuing automotive has a face that solely a mom might love. Essentially the most distinguished change is the removing of BMW’s conventional double kidney grille, changed by a a lot taller and chrome-infused grille that appears to have taken inspiration from a Cadillac from the ’40s.
Extra: Mitsuoka Turns Honda Civic Into A Dodge Challenger Impersonator
commercial scroll to proceed
Pictures: HoneyRush / Reddit
Extra noteworthy alterations comprise the hood bulge, the addition of yellow foglights, and the incorporation of metallic bumpers on each the entrance and rear. Curiously, the tailgate now includes a full-size spare tire affixed to it, seemingly resulting in an expanded trunk area.
Whereas we don’t like being harsh on different folks’s vehicles, this one is admittedly laborious to digest. Commenters on Reddit, the place we stumbled upon these pictures, appear to share the sentiment that whereas the BMW 3-Sequence E46 Compact was by no means thought of a head-turner, the addition of retro styling cues doesn’t precisely enhance issues. Nonetheless, there could possibly be some who recognize the novelty of cruising in a customized automobile, even when it’s constructed on the inspiration of a discontinued entry-level BMW from yesteryears.
We don’t know what powers this retro-flavored construct, however in its heyday, the 3-Sequence Compact supplied an array of gasoline and diesel powertrains. The bottom 316i got here geared up with a 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine, delivering 114 hp (85 kW / 116 PS), whereas the range-topping 325ti boasted a stronger 2.5-liter six-cylinder engine, churning out a good 189 hp (141 kW / 192 PS).
For these in want of a fast reminder, the second era 3-Sequence Compact was launched in 2000. It was constructed upon a shorter variant of the E46 platform and retained the distinctive hatchback design, harking back to its predecessor. In 2004, manufacturing of the 3-Sequence Compact got here to an finish, and it was succeeded by the newer and extra conventional 1-Sequence in BMW’s lineup.