Active Autowerke BMW M3

Active Autowerke BMW M3

The BMW M3 is already one of Germany's best Autobahn burners, but U.S.-based tuning company Active Autowerke has taken BMW's pride-and-joy M car to the next level.

Active Autowerke has made a few minor tweaks to the engine by way of a performance software upgrade. We're told that the M3 is now producing around 470 horsepower versus the stock car's 414 (which still isn't anything to raise your nose at). Autowerke's Signature Series Performance Package also includes things like a modified rear exhaust, short shift kit, and performance brake pads. Additionally, the folks at KW have fitted an upgraded coilover system for better suspension dynamics, meaning the coupe should be a bit more lively than the stock car we're used to.

Visually, Autowerke has partnered with Vorsteiner to add a new carbon fiber front bumper, upgraded rear diffuser, and a carbon fiber boot lid, giving the custom M3 a much more aggressive road presence. The wheels, made by ADV.1 and distributed by Avus Performance, can be built to many different size specifications, as well as being offered in either matte bronze and matte gunmetal. We'll take those hot 14-spokes, please.

*UPDATE: While the original information about this hotted-up M3 was sent to us by a spokesperson for Avus Performance, we have now learned that the car was, in fact, tuned by U.S.-based Active Autowerke using additional parts from the Vorsteiner and KW companies. Avus Performance is simply the distributor of the ADV.1 wheels pictured on the M3.

Gallery: Active Autowerke BMW M3