Bailey Woods’s E36 M3 is a heavily modified time-attack build that takes the classic E36 chassis and turns it into a lightweight, modern-performance track car. Instead of the original S52, it runs a BMW B48 turbo engine, chosen for its power delivery and efficiency while keeping the car light and balanced. The interior is stripped, the car runs on full coilover suspension with solid mounts, upgraded sway bars, a big-brake setup, lightweight wheels, and sticky race tires. The whole philosophy is usable power, low weight, and maximum grip—not flashy horsepower numbers. It’s designed purely for track speed and predictability, not street comfort.
On track, the car is extremely capable and runs in full race trim, with many of Bailey’s hot laps recorded on A7-type tires. His E36 has posted strong times at multiple circuits, including a 2:19 at Spring Mountain’s Charleston Peak layout. Media coverage often refers to it as one of the wildest E36 time-attack builds because of the combination of old-school chassis, modern engine tech, and focused setup. It’s a purpose-built, no-compromise machine—simple in concept but extreme in execution.