Now, I know what you’re thinking — we predominantly deal with Japanese performance vehicles here at NSTParts. However, we do on the odd occasion dabble in the European side of things, as our customers constantly prove to us just how capable some European platforms can be. With this particular E90 M3 no exception.
As car folk, most of us will be well aware of the M-based vehicles to come from BMW. The E90 M3 in particular is a cult classic, with a naturally aspirated, high-revving V8 engine that produces 309kW at the engine and revs all the way through to 8300RPM. It’s known to be a peaky, audibly beautiful, highly strung piece of equipment pleasing enthusiasts the world over — until the rod bearings go, that is. But seriously though, they’re an epic motor with a few common issues, but most Japanese performance engines have common issues too and once sorted it’s smooth sailing.
Stuart Wood is more commonly known for crafting vicious Volkswagen Golfs, with his previously owned 270kW GTI two-door a work of art — one that was featured in New Zealand’s NZ Performance Car Magazine (shot by yours truly). This is when I first met Stuart, and it was evident from seeing his Golf in the flesh that if he is to build something, it’s to the highest standard. That, and he only uses high-quality genuine parts where possible.
I was a bit gutted to see him move that Golf on, but when he told me he was buying an E90 M3 I completely understood. I think most of us can agree that an E9X M3 of some description is on the bucket list of performance cars to own. And, when he told me it was to be a track day build to boot, I was even more excited.
Stuart’s M3 came from Wellington, and after countless tanks of fuel to get it back to Auckland, the modifications began. Öhlins Racing R&T DFV coilovers, CSF engine oil cooler, Ground Control Camber plates, EBC pads, and a heap more track day-ready components were added. However, the party truly started when Stuart found a set of Rays Engineering TE37SL wheels measuring 18x9.5 inches and 18x10.5 inches.
Not quite the color he was looking for, Stuart had the wheels refurbished and refinished to the perfect color combination for the E90’s paintwork. The next challenge was finding a tyre that would both compliment the track day aesthetic while holding its own on the track. In the end, Stuart reached out to NSTParts for a set of Nankang CR-S tires in 265/35R18 up front and 285/30R18 in the back — meaty fitment on point.
Just last month, Stuart completed 4800kms around the North and South Island on these tyres, taking part in a track day tour that saw 19 fuel stops, four race tracks, and a heap of fun. We’re just stoked this thing is seeing the race track, with Stuart not afraid to push it to its limit. Garage queen? Not here! This is peak sedan!
