M70 V12 Powered BMW E34 5 Series
What happens when an enthusiast shoehorns an M70 V12 engine into a BMW E34 5 Series? Well, you get an incredibly unique performance vehicle.
The BMW E34 5 Series, produced from 1987 to 1996, is celebrated for its blend of performance, comfort, and timeless design. As the third generation of the 5 Series, it introduced innovations like all-wheel drive in the 525iX and the debut of V8 engines in the lineup. The E34’s reputation for reliability and balanced handling has made it a favorite among enthusiasts and tuners.
The M70 V12 engine, produced from 1987 to 1996, was BMW’s first production V12 and the first German 12-cylinder engine in the post-war era. This naturally aspirated SOHC V12 had a displacement of 5.0 liters and produced around 300 horsepower. It was known for its smooth power delivery and was used in models like the E32 750i and the E31 850i.
In a remarkable fusion of these two automotive icons, enthusiast Mantas Lekavičius transformed an E34 into a unique super saloon by installing a V12 engine. Acquiring the car as an incomplete project with a poorly executed V12 swap, Mantas leveraged his expertise as a BMW electronics specialist to rebuild and enhance the vehicle. He upgraded the engine with custom fuel rails, Ferrari injectors, a flex-fuel sensor for E85 compatibility, and a bespoke cold air intake system. To ensure optimal cooling, he installed an uprated radiator with twin Dodge Hellcat electric fans. The result is a Bavarian muscle car that combines the E34’s classic design with the formidable performance of a V12 engine, offering a unique driving experience that pays homage to BMW’s engineering prowess.
Check out the project’s feature on Speed Hunters or follow Mantas on Instagram.
