The Top 5 Best BMWs For Tuning And Modification

Tuning and modifying your BMW is a great way to extract more power, improve handling dynamics, and create a truly unique driving machine. But with so many incredible BMW models to choose from, it can be tough deciding which is the best platform to start with.

In this extensive guide, we’ll cover the top 5 BMW models that are proven to respond extremely well to tuning and aftermarket modifications. For each model, we’ll provide:

An overview of the key performance specs and tuning potential
The best modifications for adding horsepower
Handling upgrades to improve track performance
Styling mods to give your BMW even more curb appeal

Whether you want to add 100 horsepower to your daily driver or build a track beast, read on to discover the best BMW for tuning to suit your budget and goals.

1. E36 BMW M3 (1992-1999) – The Legendary BMW Tuning Platform

The E36 BMW M3 spans model years 1992-1999 and offers an iconic compact two-door coupe or convertible body style. Under the hood lies a 3.0L or 3.2L straight-six engine (depending on model year) putting out 240-320hp from the factory.

But what makes the E36 M3 such a legendary tuning platform is its lightweight chassis and near perfect weight distribution. It’s a blank canvas ready for big power and extensive handling mods.

E36 M3 Engine Tuning and Modification

When it comes to adding horsepower, the S50 and S52 engines respond extremely well to basic bolt-ons and ECU tuning:

Intake – Aftermarket intakes like the AFE Magnum Force can add 7-15hp while also enhancing engine sound.
Exhaust – A full aftermarket exhaust like the Rogue Engineering system adds 15-25hp. Includes high-flow catalytic converters and a tuned muffler.
ECU Tuning – Getting an ECU tune from Dinan, RMS, or Epic Motorsports can reliably add 30-60hp depending on mods.
Lower Compression – Lowering compression from 10.5:1 to 9.5:1 via pistons allows for more boost or nitrous without detonation.

With supporting mods, the S50/S52 can make over 400hp at the wheels. While some swap in the S54 from the E46 M3, the original engine responds so well to tuning that it’s often not necessary.

E36 M3 Handling, Braking, and Suspension Mods

In stock form, the M3’s handling is already incredible. But it can be taken to the next level with these upgrades:

Coilovers – Systems from KW and Ohlins allow lowering the car while providing adjustable damping and improved handling dynamics.
Sway Bars – Thicker front and rear sway bars from Rogue, UUC, or Vorshlag reduce body roll and keep the car flatter in corners.
Strut Bars – Added chassis bracing from Turner Motorsports improves steering response and front-end rigidity.
Bushings – Polyurethane suspension bushings firm up the chassis and reduce flex for quicker turn-in.
Brakes – Big brake kits from Brembo and StopTech with 4-6 piston calipers and larger rotors greatly improve braking performance.
Wheels/Tires – Lightweight wheels 17-18 inches in diameter wrapped in sticky performance tires provide increased grip.

E36 M3 Style Mods and Body Kits

The classic E36 M3 styling still looks fantastic today, especially with these enhancements:

Body Kit – Many options available from BMW, Hamann, and AC Schnitzer to give it an aggressive look.
Front Lip Spoiler – Improves front downforce while accentuating the lower fascia.
Rear Trunk Spoiler – Creates downforce on the rear while adding a sporty accent.
Angel Eye Headlights – An easy swap to give it a modern, elegant look.

The E36 M3 truly shines as a lightweight track weapon that responds beautifully to suspension work and engine tuning. And with its timeless styling, it will always look right at home on the streets too.

2. E46 BMW M3 (2000-2006) – More Luxury and Daily Driveability

The E46 BMW M3 brought higher levels of luxury and refinement compared to the E36 while continuing incredible performance and tuning potential. Available as a coupe or convertible, it packs a 3.2L straight-six making 333hp.

Weighing in around 3400lbs, the E46 is heavier than the E36 but still lightweight compared to modern cars. And the improved chassis rigidity and suspension design actually makes it handle better on track.

Let’s look at how to extract more power and performance out of the E46 M3:

E46 M3 Engine and Power Mods

The S54 engine responds extremely well to:

Intake – Aftermarket intakes like the Dinan or Carbonio add noticeable mid-range torque and increase horsepower.
Exhaust – Full exhaust systems from Akrapovic, Supersprint, and Rogue Engineering unlock the S54’s sound and add 15-25hp.
ECU Tuning – Properly tuned by Epic Motorsports, Euro M, or RMS, expect reliable gains of 30-80hp depending on mods.
Pulley – An underdrive pulley reduces parasitic loss and can add 10-15hp.
Rod Bolts – Upgrade rod bolts before adding more boost or nitrous to handle the extra power safely.

Bigger turbo kits and supercharger systems are also popular for putting down 450hp+ at the rear wheels.

Handling and Chassis Upgrades for the E46 M3

Building on the capable factory suspension, the M3 can be made even sharper with:

Coilovers – Systems from KW and Ohlins lower the car while providing adjustable damping and ride height.
Sway Bars – Thicker aftermarket sway bars reduce body roll and improve handling balance.
Strut Bars – Chassis bracing bars stiffen the front end for better turn-in and steering feel.
Control Arms – Stronger stamped steel or adjustable control arms improve wheel control and alignment specs.
Brakes – Big brake kits from Brembo, StopTech and others greatly improve stopping power.

Sticky performance tires on 19-inch wheels also boost grip while giving an aggressive look.

Exterior and Interior Style Upgrades

While the stock E46 remains a timelessly elegant design, popular mods include:

Body Kit – Aggressive front lips, side skirts, and rear valances are available.
Interior Trim – Aftermaket steering wheels, shift knobs, pedal covers and carbon fiber accents personalize the cockpit.
Window Tint – A quality tint job gives it a slick, private jet look.
Black Kidney Grilles – A subtle exterior accent that adds an aggressive touch up front.

From the 3.2L straight-six power to ultra-sharp handling, the E46 M3 is a brilliant track weapon for experienced drivers. Yet it retains everyday livability and comfort making it an ideal dual-purpose BMW.

3. E92 BMW M3 (2007-2013) – Explosive V8 Power

In 2007, BMW decided to ditch their traditional inline-six and go big by slotting a high-revving 4.0L V8 into the new E92 M3. Pumping out 414hp at a screaming 8400rpm redline, its power delivery feels endless and intoxicating to unleash.

Available as a coupe or convertible, the E92 introduced a much edgier, muscular design that really stands out. It’s also larger than its predecessors, tipping the scales around 3600lbs.

Let’s explore the top tuning options to get the most from its V8 power:

Extracting More Power from the S65 V8

With a high-compression design (12.0:1), the S65 loves to be revved and responds well to:

ECU Tuning – Pro tunes from Epic Motorsports, RK Tunes, and others safely unlock 30-80hp depending on mods.
Intake – Aftermarket carbon fiber intakes like the Dinan or Vorsteiner V1 add noticeable mid-range punch.
Exhaust – Full exhaust systems from Akrapovic and Armytrix add 15-25hp while enhancing the exotic soundtrack.
Downpipes – High-flow downpipes combined with tuning can contribute 30hp gains.
Pulley – A lightweight underdrive pulley liberates 10-15hp by reducing parasitic loss.

There’s also huge potential from supercharger systems, although they sacrifice some high-RPM power.

Handling Upgrades for the E92 M3 Coupe

To harness all that power at the limit, the following mods are popular:

Coilovers – Systems from KW and Ohlins lower the center of gravity while improving handling balance.
Sway Bars – Thicker anti-roll bars keep body roll minimized in hard cornering.
Control Arms – Adjustable camber arms boost negative camber for sharper turn-in and better tire wear.
Strut Tower Brace – A brace joins the strut towers together to increase chassis rigidity.

For the ultimate in braking performance, big brake kits from Brembo and StopTech bring stellar stopping power with less fade. Wider staggered wheels and ultra high-performance tires put the power down in dramatic style.

Exterior and Interior Mods

Some choice mods to put your own stamp on it inside and out include:

Front Splitter – For added front downforce and a more aggressive look.
Rear Trunk Spoiler – Increases rear downforce while accentuating the decklid.
Black Kidney Grilles – A common swap for a subtle but sinister look.
Carbon Fiber Interior – Weave carbon fiber trim throughout the interior for a race-inspired look.

The screaming V8 delivers a thrilling driving experience that only gets better when tuned. While heavier than older M3s, the E92 still shines as a tuned weapon on road and track.

4. F80 M3 & F82/F87 M4 (2015+) – Modern Super Sedan

When BMW dropped the beloved naturally aspirated V8 and released the M3/M4 in 2015, some were outraged. But the new twin-turbo straight-six has proven to be a monster in its own right.

Pumping out 425hp (or 444hp with the Competition Package), its broad powerband offers relentless acceleration matched with increased refinement and comfort.

Let’s look at how to unleash more power and performance from BMW’s current super sedan and coupe:

Tuning the Turbo S55 Engine

The S55 responds very well to:

ECU Tuning – Pro tunes extract anywhere from 30-150hp depending on mods. Dinan, MHD, and BootMod3 are top options.
Intake – Aftermarket intakes add noticeable mid-range punch and turbo sound. Popular options include VRSF and AFE.
Intercooler – Larger front mount intercoolers prevent power-robbing heatsoak after hard runs.
Exhaust – Improves turbo spool while adding 15-25hp. Systems from Fi, Akrapovic, and Armytrix sound incredible.
Downpipes – High-flow catless downpipes combined with tuning contribute big power gains.
Meth Injection – Water/methanol injection keeps charge air cooler to allow more aggressive tuning.

Improving Handling and Braking Performance

Upgrading the already brilliant chassis and suspension brings even sharper response and adjustability:

Coilovers – Lower the center of gravity and allow ride height and damping adjustment. KW and Ohlins are top-tier.
Sway Bars – Thicker anti-roll bars keep the F80/F82 planted in hard cornering.
Chassis Braces – Strut braces and chassis bracing increase structural rigidity.
Control Arms – Camber plates and adjustable control arms allow dialing in alignment for grip and adjustability.

For repeated hard track use, upgrading the brake pads, rotors, and fluid is advised. Lightweight forged wheels with wide, sticky tires provide the grip to put the power down.

Style Upgrades to Make it Your Own

Like any M3, there are almost endless styling options:

Front Splitter – For added front downforce and accentuating the front fascia.
Rear Diffuser – Diffusers work with the trunk spoiler to create rear downforce while cleaning up airflow.
Black Kidney Grilles – A popular styling swap for a more monochrome, menacing look.
Window Tint – A quality tint job really cleans up the side profile.

Inside, carbon fiber trim, a short shift kit, and performance pedals further personalize the driving experience.

With insane power tunability combined with everyday comfort and tech, the current M3 and M4 are spectacular performers begging to be tuned.

5. BMW M2 (2016+) – Legendary M Badge in a Smaller Package

When BMW introduced the M2 coupe in 2016, it instantly became a hit. Slotting in as the entry M car below the M3/M4, the M2 dials back the power while focusing on sheer driving joy in a tidy, tossable package.

Power comes from a 3.0L turbo straight-six pumping out 365hp and 343lb-ft of torque. Weighing under 3500lbs, it achieves a phenomenal power-to-weight ratio that makes the M2 feel even quicker.

Let’s uncover the top tuning options to get the most out of the M2:

Extracting More Power from the N55 Engine

While not as tunable as the S55, the N55 still responds nicely to:

ECU Tuning – Pro tunes from Epic Motorsports, JB4, and MHD add 30-80hp depending on fuel and mods.
Intake – Improves turbo spool and adds induction noise. Popular options are the MST and VRSF intakes.
Intercooler – A larger intercooler keeps charge temps down, minimizing power loss.
Exhaust – Full exhaust systems from Akrapovic, Armytrix, and Fi create a soundtrack while adding 15-25hp.
Downpipe – When combined with tuning, high-flow downpipes can contribute 30+hp gains.

Most M2 owners focus on the following handling, braking, and chassis mods to create a track weapon:

Coilovers – Systems from KW allow lowering the car and optimizing damping.
Sway Bars – Thicker anti-roll bars keep body roll to a minimum.
Strut Tower Brace – Improves front-end rigidity for better turn-in and steering feel.
Wheels & Tires – Sticky performance tires on 19-inch lightweight wheels boost grip.

Big brake kits, brake ducts, and upgraded pads handle repeated heavy track use.

Exterior and Interior Styling

Being brand new, the M2’s styling still looks modern and beautiful with just a few accent pieces:

Black Kidney Grilles – Swapping the chrome for black grilles adds stealthy aggression.
Trunk Spoiler – A subtle trunk lip spoiler accentuates the rear.
Window Tint – A 35% tint looks slick while keeping the interior cooler.
Black Mirrors – Black side mirrors complement the black kidney grilles.

Inside, a short shift kit, underseat subwoofer, or performance pedals offer personalization.

Delivering incredible performance and tuning potential in a tidy, tossable package, the M2 lives up the Ultimate Driving Machine nickname.

Conclusion – Unleashing Your BMW’s Performance Potential

BMW has given us some of the best tuned platforms imaginable. Models like the E36 M3, E46 M3, E92 M3, F80 M3, and M2 all beg to be modified and offer tremendous potential.

Choose the chassis that suits your budget and style. Then unleash its potential step-by-step with boldt-on mods, ECU tuning, and upgraded handling components to create your perfect road and track machine.

With the right BMW chassis and mods, you can build a tuned beast to humiliate exotics while still using it as a daily driver. Just be sure to save some budget for track entry fees and extra tires!