Yes, the engine is powered by a 5.6-liter V12.
The 3 Series Compact was BMW’s 90s attempt to build a hatchback that would complement its sedans, wagons and convertibles. It was an odd-looking hatch, with only two doors and a cut-off rear. Even though tried an M3 Compact version while the E36 generation was in production, the company did not put any larger than a six-cylinder engine underneath a Compact production vehicle.
This is what a Norwegian enthusiast did 16 years ago when he replaced the original inline four engine with a 5.6-liter, V12 engine sourced from an 850 CSi. He simply found the biggest BMW engine at the time. It is mated with a manual gearbox, sending power only to rear wheels.
This vehicle is not ideal for use on track, as it has a large V12 in the front and a very light rear. This 3 Series Compact V12 is capable of producing 400 horsepower (294 kilowatts) and has a low weight. It will bring smiles to your face.
It looks almost identical to the M3’s smaller brother, with its correct bumpers and Hartge-replica wheels. It may look lowered, but it is actually riding on M3 E36 suspension. Inside, there are a complete set of seats, gauges and dashboard that were sourced from the same car.
This hot hatchback has 64,600 miles and appears to be in excellent condition. We doubt that the engine transplantation will provide a complete service history, but we are confident that someone who has spent a lot of money on a small hatchback V12 engine will maintain it well.
What about the price? The current asking price for the car in Norway is 299,000 Norwegian Krone. This translates to approximately $33,000 at current exchange rates.