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Coming Soon to BAT

Overview

This Sports Wagon's original identity was already unique, its VIN confirming it was one of the incredibly rare U.S. spec, rear-wheel-drive, 6-speed manual 328i E91s. Though it suffered front damage and received a salvage title, the vehicle has been stunningly transformed into a 335i Sports Wagon with 517 horsepower and a twin-turbo N54 engine. The low stance and stylish wheels suggest this 328i is different, giving the car an aggressive look to match its performance capabilities. Inside, the presence of manual sport seats and an M-branded steering wheel elevate the feel. Driving this car is a visceral experience. The turbos start spooling almost immediately and hurl the compact wagon forward at a rate of speed that will surprise you. 

Ownership History 

The car started life as a 2008 328i wagon and is one of just 75 manual rear-drive (VS13 designation) E91s brought into the U.S. between 2007 and 2008. It has a rebuilt title due to a front end collision that required the bumper, hood and head light to be replaced (see photos in the gallery). The donor chassis was united with the N54 motor in 2019, according to reports from the former owner. The motor is reported to have come from a same year 330i with equivalent mileage, about 100K at the time of the swap. Additional details about this car can be found on the German Car Blog. The car was eventually sold to the previous owner in Illinois who completed a litany of performance upgrades and maintenance services which totaled more than $20,000. The car currently resides in Denver, Colorado with a Colorado dealer title indicating it's been rebuilt from salvage.  

Media

History & Maintenance

In the time I’ve owned the car the following items have been addressed:

  • Replaced throttle body

  • Brake fluid service

  • Replaced headliner

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The previous owner went through this car top to bottom mechanically. Below is a list of items he addressed over the last 2 years; service receipts can be found in the supplements below.  

  • Compression test done on motor prior to moving forward with additional mods (all cylinders within spec)

  • Some of the mods like the turbos and downpipes were done by the former owner. 

  • The car runs perfectly, there are no leaks, nor is there any rust 

 

April 2024 Invoices:

  • Oil pump gasket Oil filter housing and oil cooler gasket replaced 

  • Drive belt Belt Tensioners replaced

  • Rear differential re-sealed and bushing replaced 

  • Thrust arm bushings replaced 

  • Engine block coolant pipe gasket replaced

  • Valve cover gaskets replaced

  • Oil and coolant changed 

  • Map sensor replaced 

  • 6 coils 6 spark plugs replaced

  • Rod bearings and ARP bolts installed

 

Known Issues

There are no major issues to report. Paint isn’t perfect, there are some defects that can be expected for a car of this age and miles including; rock chips, scratches and minor imperfections aligning the aftermarket front clip and rear bumper. The low windshield washer fluid warning light has been disabled. 

Features

  • Power windows, door locks, mirrors and panoramic glass sunroof

  • Original BMW HiFi factory audio system

  • Makes 517 WHP on ethanol. 

  • Flex fuel allows for either pump gas or E85

  • MHD super license included with sale

  • F80 style bumper with Spec D Tuning Headlights and H7 LED bulbs 

  • M spec steering wheel and shift knob

  • M Spec style side mirrors

  • Detailed service history from current and prior ownership totaling more than $22,000

  • K&N conical air filters

  • VRSF downpipes 

  • Custom 2.5 exhaust with Berk dual mufflers 

  • VRSF aluminum turbo outlets and charge pipe 

  • Mishimoto upgraded water pump 

  • VRSF 7.5 Intercooler and Relocated Turbo inlet Kit 

  • Phoenix racing port injection manifold 

  • Motiv Reflex Controller 

  • Dual Walbro 450 stage 3 LPFP with Flex fuel sensor 

  • KW Street comfort v2 coilovers 

  • New Clutch SPEC stage 3 spec clutch, new Flywheel (DMF112) and new throwout bearing, clutch fork, pivot pin, and flywheel bolts 

  • Index 12 injectors 

2008 BMW 328i Twin Turbo 6 Speed

Fundamentals

  • VIN: WBAVS13598FV95109

  • Year: 2008

  • Transmission: 6 Speed Manual Rear Wheel Drive

  • Engine: 3.0-liter, twin-turbocharged and intercooled inline-six

  • Miles: 152,300

  • Exterior: Arktis Metallic

  • Interior: Dakota Beige Sport Seats 

  • N54 motor swap, including Pure stage 1 turbos and VRSF 7” intercooler

  • Original 6 Speed manual rear wheel drive transaxle

  • KW adjustable coilover suspension 

  • 18” x 8” Apex ARC wheels and Continental Extreme Contact 245 45 ZR 18” tires

  • Title: Branded

  • Consignment: NO

  • Location: Denver, CO

Heritage

BMW's wagon heritage began with an inventor's custom E30 3 Series wagon prototype in the mid-1980s, which led to the production of the first 3 Series Touring in 1987. The "Touring" designation emphasizes freedom and cargo space without sacrificing performance and sporty feel, a key aspect of BMW's brand image. The first-ever M Division wagon was the E34 M5 Touring in the 1990s, which helped establish the performance wagon as a desirable and practical vehicle. 

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Interior                C+

The interior of this vehicle is in average condition. Some blemishes with noticeable wear on the seat bolsters and arm rest. The mechanical seats functions as they should as do all of the power options.

Exterior                C+

The exterior of this car has several imperfections as noted in the photos, including a scratch in the drivers door that is the unfortunate result of the last transport company. There are a number of rock chips, some paint de-lamination at the top of the hatch and the aforementioned body panel alignment issues.

Mechanical           A

Mechanically the car is in superb condition, no known issues, it pulls strong, shifts smoothly and accelerates with force.

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Photographer's notes

While photographing the car, I was also able to drive it a bit. Both on the highway and around the streets. It’s understated and didn’t get a lot of looks until I blew past an unsuspecting motorist who greeted me at the next light with a thumbs up. I love the sound of the aftermarket exhaust and enjoyed driving it with the windows down. The car is surprisingly nimble and corners with the agility of a proper sports car – the downside is the occasional rubbing noise over bumps at highway speeds. If you’re looking for something to get to and from the grocery store at break-neck speed this is the car for you.​

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