Frankenstein: Live To Offend BMW E30

LIVE TO OFFEND BMW E30 / WORDS: EVA SKIBINSKI

FRANKENSTEIN BUILD

Live To Offend (LTO). Welcome to Tyrone’s LTO BMW E30, best described as a ‘Frankenstein” build. Fuelled by an American LS1 V8 powerhouse coupled with the British-designed LTO wide body kit – this E30 is a BMW purist’s worst nightmare.

It may be considered a monstrosity to some, but to us, it’s a rolling piece of art that flawlessly captures the E30’s classic yet timeless shape. Originally produced in the 1980s, the E30 quickly developed a cult-like following due to its superb build quality and refined driving capabilities, but it is not often you see one built to the calibre of Tyrone’s.

This exceptionally well-built E30 pushes the platform’s modifiable limits, with no facets of the car remaining untouched, this car has seen a complete overhaul and sets the bar high within the automotive scene. Its striking Mazda Soul Red Crystal candy paintwork accentuates the E30’s smooth curves and sharp lines, however, this build is far more than just eye candy boasting a fully built motor that is equipped to push 400kW at the wheels.

CONTEMPORARY AESTHETICS

At first glance, it doesn’t take a connoisseur to recognise that this E30 is built to a high distinction, sporting a Stage 2 LTO widebody kit that elevates the E30’s shape with box flares and side skirts.

Riding low, the additional front splitter and rear diffuser capitalise on aerodynamics, creating the ultimate floor-sweeper presence. The over-the-top bodywork is concluded with a sizeable spoiler that is amplified with a second gurney flap, evoking time-attack stying.

The E30’s hood vents tease that there is far more to see underneath, perched within the engine bay, the last motor that you would expect, a mighty LS torque monster that certainly does not disappoint. Despite being 5.7L in capacity, the LS1’s lightweight alloy construction delivers all the power and torque you expect from a V8 without disrupting the E30’s brilliant chassis dynamics – an unrivaled sleeper build.

However, it is far from your run-of-the-mill LS, flaunting forged pistons, upgraded cam, and conrods just to name a few. Backing the LS1 is the infamous Tremec T56 manual 6-speed gearbox that originally debuted in the 1992 Dodge Viper and can undoubtedly withstand the LS1’s abuse.

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“MY DRIVE FOR THIS PROJECT WAS TO BE ABLE TO DO SOMETHING UNIQUE AND INSPIRE OTHER PEOPLE TO MAKE THEIR DREAMS HAPPEN.”

Owner Spotlight

TUNNEL VISION

The E30 has undeniably solidified its status in both automotive and pop culture. For Tyrone, the initial attraction to the E30 rooted from its signature design, as he puts it, “I chose a BMW E30 because it is one of the most iconic cars of all time”.

Prior to purchasing the E30, Tyrone gained inspiration from Khyzyl Saleem’s futuristic car renders – a founding partner of Live To Offend. Upon the release of Khyzyl’s and co-founder Eric’s LTO E30 body kit, Tyrone’s pursuit ignited to purchase the foundation for his LTO E30 build, leading him to secure a clean example from an avid collector.

It goes without saying that the cherry on top of a widebody kit is a slammed car stance, and Tyrone’s E30 is nothing short of low. Fitted with a Prazis S4 air suspension kit and a catalogue of refreshed control arms and bushings, this E30 not only sits gracefully flush but can certainly put the power down. Riding upon a set of custom 3-piece Heritage wheels with deep chrome dish, the LTO E30 pays its respects to the basketweave style of the OEM E30 wheels with a contemporary spin.

UP NEXT

The LTO E30 is a spectacle as it stands, however, this E30’s journey is far from over. Tyrone will continue adding the final puzzle pieces to retain its impeccable build status, beginning with an air tank and compressor install in the boot to brace the air suspension. Continuing with the final touches, the E30 will soon see a modern Haltech ECU with drive-by-wire to match, maximising its spirited driving abilities.

Further down the line, Tyrone hopes to add period-correct flair with a pair of retrimmed OEM Recaro sports seats. A revamp of the E30’s exterior may also be on its horizon, with Tyrone’s dream being a set of Rotiform wheels and “a crazy livery like the American/European LTO E30s”.

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LTO BMW E30

SPECIAL THANKS

MAKING IT POSSIBLE

A lot of work goes into making a project like this possible. Tyrone would like to extend his gratitude to Theo, who was the brains and graciously allowed Tyrone to work on the car in his garage for a whole year.

To Danny and the boys at Concept Garage for their amazing craftsmanship, and sending it in for paint at Mesiti Bodyworks.

To the team at Heritage Wheels for building the 3 piece wheels and being very accommodating, to Blue Waffle for the custom headlights.

A massive appreciation to Khyzyl and Eric for making the ordering process of the body kit as smooth as possible during the pandemic.