Someone Mashed Up a Classic Mustang and an E92 BMW M3, People Are Upset!
A BMW E92 M3 disguised as a classic Mustang is turning heads for all the right—and wrong—reasons.
An Unexpected Blend of Icons
From a distance, this car appears to be a well-preserved classic Ford Mustang, complete with its iconic 1960s design. But take a closer look, and you'll realize it’s actually a BMW. Specifically, a 2008 E92-generation BMW M3 that has undergone a surprising transformation: it’s been cloaked in a first-generation fastback Mustang body. This mash-up isn’t just a cosmetic job—it’s an unexpected fusion of two legendary vehicles from the world of performance cars.
BMW Power Meets Mustang Design
The heart of this car remains pure BMW. Under the hood sits the BMW M3’s 4.0-liter S65 V8 engine, which produces a distinctive roar that has earned it a cult following among enthusiasts. This engine is mated to a six-speed manual transmission, sending power to the rear wheels in true M3 fashion.
Classic Pony Car Looks
What makes this build stand out, however, is the Mustang shell wrapped around the German performance car. The car is finished in bright blue with silver wheels and unmistakable GT500-inspired body panels that give it the look of a classic American muscle car, though it’s far from authentic.
A Unique Interior Fusion
Inside the cabin, the builder has worked to maintain a balance between Mustang nostalgia and BMW modernity. The dashboard and steering wheel lean toward the vintage Mustang look, with wood accents and a classic design. However, you’ll still find BMW essentials like the dual-zone climate control interface, original M3 seats (now reupholstered in quilted leather), and a modern touchscreen. The blend of old and new creates an odd, yet charming, interior that stands apart from conventional restomods.
The Work Under the Hood
Mechanically, this Frankenstein’s monster is mostly unaltered from its M3 origins. The BMW engine bay remains intact, with just a few modifications to accommodate the new body, such as a manually operated hood support bar. Though the engine cover sports an awkwardly applied Ford badge, the rest of the engine components are untouched, ensuring that the driving experience stays true to its M3 roots. While the mismatched wiring for the headlights is a small blemish, it doesn’t detract from the overall functionality of the car.
A Conversation Piece for the Road
This BMW-Mustang hybrid isn’t the product of a high-end restomod shop; it’s more likely the result of a home project fueled by passion. Although it may not be flawless in its execution, this car is certainly unique enough to start conversations wherever it goes. Yet, for all its quirkiness and curb appeal, it comes with a hefty price tag. Listed for the USD equivalent of just over $102,000 in Cape Town, South Africa, it’s an expensive purchase—especially when you consider that you could buy both a classic Mustang and a proper M3 for less.
An Expensive Curiosity
Ultimately, this build seems to raise more questions than answers. While the craftsmanship deserves admiration, potential buyers might wonder if it’s worth the cost. It’s a bold statement piece, no doubt, but one that feels like an extravagant way to blend two distinct automotive cultures. For the right buyer, this could be a dream come true, but for others, it may feel like an unnecessary and costly experiment.
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