Autoblog and Yahoo may earn commission from links in this article.The E30 3 Series is one of the most beloved BMWs ever built, and swapping in a modern M engine turns it into a genuine dream machine. This 1992 325i convertible pairs the classic E30 shape with the E46 M3's S54 straight-six, in a clean Alpine White over white. It sits on Cars and Bids at $10,099 with six days to go.1992 BMW 325i ConvertibleCars & BidsWhat it's worth right nowS54-swapped E30s occupy a strong and rising corner of the restomod market. According to build-market data and Classic.com listings, S54-swapped E30 restomods generally trade from close to $22,000 into the $50,000s depending on the quality of the build and the body style, with coupes and professional builds commanding the upper end.AdvertisementAdvertisementFair value for a tastefully built convertible example like this sits close to $22,000 to $40,000, most likely close to $27,000 to $33,000, with the comprehensive drivetrain and suspension work supporting the figure and the notes below tempering it. At $10,099 with six days remaining and active bidding, the price should climb into that range.1992 BMW 325i ConvertibleCars & BidsCondition and detailsThe car is a comprehensive restomod, so it should be valued on the finished product. Finished in Alpine White with a blue soft top over white, it runs a 3.2-liter S54 straight-six from a 2004 E46 M3, mated to an E36 five-speed manual.The engine reportedly received new rod bearings and a refurbished VANOS unit during the install, addressing the S54's two known weak points, and the supporting work is thorough, with a reinforced rear subframe, a five-lug conversion, E46 M3 brakes, Ground Control coilovers, a Z3 steering rack, and the M-Technic II appearance package.1992 BMW 325i ConvertibleA few points deserve attention. The odometer was reset during the build and shows 1,300 miles, so the chassis's total mileage is unknown. As a convertible rather than a coupe, and a 325i rather than an M3, it is best priced as the tastefully built restomod it is. The Carfax notes a December 2013 "minor damage" entry described as cosmetic, and the car has been repainted, so inspect the quality. The modifications may affect emissions in some states, so confirm registration where the buyer lives, and get a pre-purchase inspection to verify the build quality and documentation.1992 BMW 325i ConvertibleCars & BidsAdvertisementAdvertisementThe offerSpecificationDetailMakeBMWModel325i Convertible S54 SwapYear1992Mileage1,300 miles on the buildEngine3.2-liter S54 straight-sixPowerNot specified by the sellerTransmission5-speed manualDrive typeRear-wheel driveExterior colorAlpine WhiteInterior colorWhiteCurrent bid$10,099, with six days leftInterested in this 1992 BMW 325i Convertible S54 Swap? View the listing here.What makes the E30 uniqueThe E30 3 Series holds a hallowed place in BMW history as the car that defined the modern sports sedan, and its clean, boxy styling has aged into genuine timelessness. Beloved for its communicative steering, balanced rear-drive chassis, and just-right dimensions, the E30 remains one of the most engaging and characterful BMWs ever made, which is precisely why it has become such a popular restomod platform. The one criticism enthusiasts level at the standard cars is a lack of power, and dropping in a later M engine solves that emphatically while preserving everything that makes the E30 special.1992 BMW 325i ConvertibleCars & BidsThe S54 from the E46 M3 is arguably the ultimate swap, a high-revving, naturally aspirated straight-six widely regarded as one of the greatest engines BMW ever produced. Paired with the E30's light weight and sublime chassis, along with the suspension, brake, and drivetrain upgrades this car has received, the result is a machine that drives like the E30 M3 that BMW never built, with modern performance and the classic open-top experience.My takeThis is an appealing take on the E30 restomod formula, pairing the beloved convertible with the celebrated S54 and a thorough list of supporting upgrades. The fact that the engine's known weak points, the rod bearings and VANOS, were addressed during the install is reassuring, and the clean Alpine White over white presentation with the M-Technic II package is a handsome combination. It is a driver's car built to be enjoyed with the top down.AdvertisementAdvertisementFair value sits close to $22,000 to $40,000, most likely close to $27,000 to $33,000, reflecting the comprehensive build against the reset odometer and the convertible body. Before bidding, review the build documentation, get a pre-purchase inspection to verify the quality of the work, confirm the ownership and prior-sale history, and check the emissions situation where the buyer lives. Handle that, and this is a fast, characterful, open-top E30 built the way many enthusiasts dream of.Disclaimer: This post is for informational purposes only. We are not a dealership or broker. All vehicle specifications, pricing, and availability are subject to change without notice. We are not responsible for typographical errors, omissions, or the accuracy of the provided information. Please verify all details directly with the seller.Autoblog aims to feature only the best products and services. If you buy something via one of our links, we may earn a commission.This story was originally published by Autoblog on Sep 3, 2026, where it first appeared in the Car Buying section. Add Autoblog as a Preferred Source by clicking here.