This BMW M135i Swapped An M3 Engine And It's Blazing Fast – See It Conquer The Autobahn!

Imagine the thrill of blending two potent worlds into one: the BMW M135i, a nimble hot hatch, fused with the heart of a beast – the S55 engine from the iconic F80 M3. This is not a mere daydream; it's a reality set free on the unrestricted stretches of Germany's Autobahn, where its new 425hp powerplant was put through its paces.

The Transformation

What was once a remarkable BMW M135i xDrive sporting the N55 engine, revered for its balance of power and drivability, has undergone a metamorphosis. Its original engine's respectable 315 hp pales in comparison to the F80 M3's S55 unit that now lies under its bonnet, boasting a towering 425 hp. Torque figures soar to 550 Nm (406 lb-ft), a leap of 100 Nm (74 lb-ft) over its predecessor, transforming this hot hatch into something sensational.

Unleashed on the Autobahn

The spectacle of this three-door hatch, a F21 model, thundering down the Autobahn is a testament to BMW's engineering prowess. While the car’s exterior remains relatively understated, save for a custom quad exhaust, it's the blazing speed and agility that capture the essence of this transformation. Despite the mixed reviews about its sound, there’s no denying this M135i's brute force and quickness.

A Nod to the Past

Beyond its monstrous heart, this M135i hails from an era cherished by enthusiasts - a time when BMW’s 1 Series was built on a rear-wheel-drive platform. This architectural choice is a nod to the purist driving experience, now a rare find as BMW’s current and future 1 Series models adopt an FWD and AWD-only layout respectively. Yet, this car marries the best of both worlds: the agility and spirit of RWD with the monstrous grunt of an M3 engine.

Limitless Yet Limited

Despite its ferocity and the Autobahn serving as a perfect playground, one wonders why this rocket ship still adheres to a top speed limiter. The presence of a manual gearbox could have amplified its appeal, echoing the sentiments of purists who miss the tactile feedback of gear shifting. The charm of the original analog dials, too, is sorely missed amidst the aftermarket digital revamp.

Appreciating the Aesthetics

The F20/F21 1 Series may not have won beauty contests, but its design evolution and the cabin’s graceful aging deserve appreciation. In an era where car interiors gravitate towards a minimalist approach dominated by screens, this M135i stands out for preserving a tactile quality, blending modernity with nostalgia.

Looking Forward

While some may argue that more hardcore builds exist, featuring even more audacious engine swaps, the magic of this M135i lies in its balance - a bridge between past and future BMW eras. As we anticipate the arrival of a new M135i xDrive iteration, this build serves as a thrilling benchmark, a reminder of the exhilarating potential when worlds collide.