Apex Wallpaper – Imola Red BMW E46 M3

THE PHOTOS

While shooting this E46 M3 in our studio for a test fitment, we experimented with some different techniques. We decided to shoot the car in the studio staging area with all of the lights off to, hopefully, create a moody feeling. To illuminate the car, we used a long-exposure with an LED light and stitched a few exposures together in post-processing.

EQUIPMENT:

• Canon 6D
• Canon 70-200mm F/4
• Manfrotto Tripod
• LED Light Bar for Light Painting
• Adobe Creative Suite

THE CAR

This BMW E46 M3 is an absolute monster. It cranks out over 900HP at the wheels thanks to a low compression motor built by Portland company, LAB22 (http://lab22.com/). With more modifications, custom parts, and one-off setups than you can shake a stick at, this car may be one of the most well-equipped, high-performance builds we’ve ever seen. Isn’t that front end just absolutely menacing? We think so.

THE MODIFICATION LIST

Drivetrain:

• Low compression motor by LAB22
• Precision 71mm billet turbo (PT7168)
• Tial 44mm wastegate
• HKS SSQV BOV
• Custom LAB22 hidden surge tank
• DrVanos.com rebuilt vanos
• AEM Performance Electronics Infinity Standalone Engine Management System

Suspension:

• TC Kline Racing DA coilovers and camber plates (http://www.tcklineracing.com/webdocs/Items/Details382.cfm)
• Powerflex bushings
• Driveshaft Shop Stage 5 Axles

Wheels/Tires/Brakes:

• APEX ARC-8 18×9.5″ ET35 front with 5mm spacer; 18×10.5″ ET27 rear
• • Learn more about our ARC-8s here.
• Toyo Tires R888 265/35 Front and 275/40 rear
• Brembo 6 & 4 pot calipers
• FERODO DS2500 street pads and Cobalt XR1 track pads

Sound:

• German Audio Specialties crossover and amp enclosure
• JL Audio Subwoofer and Amplifier
• Dynavin D99+ Head Unit

Tom M.

Tom is a BMW Fitment Expert at APEX Wheels. Prior to joining the company in 2019, he worked for BMW of North America as Fleet Manager: Portland (OR) for the ReachNow car-sharing program, and as Warranty Administrator/Loaner Fleet Manager at BMW Portland. In addition, Tom has extensive training in BMW TSBs (Technical Service Bulletins) as well as in-depth knowledge of all BMW chassis and their wheel fitment options, with and without aftermarket brake and suspension upgrades. His high-performance driving experience includes autocross events in southern Oregon and track days at PIR in his 2004 E46 330i with 17x9 ET42 APEX ARC-8 wheels. Vehicles he owned prior to indulging his passion for BMWs include a 1989 Jaguar XJ6 and a 2006 S197 Ford Mustang. Fun Fact: Tom is a huge Formula 1 fan. Have questions about wheels for your BMW? Use our contact form and ask for Tom.