The 2008 BMW 135i was originally a BMW 135i. Now it has a V8 under its hood and an interior that is stripped down.
Jay Leno’s Garage tends to avoid modern-tuned machines and instead favors retro-modded classics or originals. However, the most recent vehicle to visit the show was a 2008 BMW 135i. Marco Svizzero purchased the car to fulfill his dream of owning a Bimmer. However, when he became tired with the stock performance, a new 4.0-liter V8 was installed and running gear from an were added. He decided to add a 4.6-liter stroker engine, which increased the power output to 502 horsepower.
This is in a way the 1M from an alternate universe. This car is not a real car that has a biturbo-inline-six under its hood, but a miniature version of the E92 generation M3, with more power than stock.
Svizzero’s car also gains weight due to carbon-fiber parts for the roof, doors, and hood. Carbon Revolution’s carbon-fiber wheels also reduce six pounds per corner. The rear seat is also absent. A roll cage is used to provide extra safety on the track.
The 1 Series narrow engine bay is too small for the large engine. Svizzero claims that there is so much clearance that it’s necessary to lower the front subframe to change the plugs.
Svizzero said that he was inspired by the Porsche 911 GT3 RS, which he believes is a car that can be driven on the roads but also excels on the track. However, the tuned V8 is very raw. The V8 is quiet in the sixth gear, but it makes a lot of noise when you go up the rev range.
Svizzero’s 1 Series is a remarkable project, especially considering it was his first BMW. Jay describes the feeling from behind the wheel.