Frode Dale's F80 M3
Photos by Aleksart Photography @aleksartphotography
Typically when the newest generation of a car comes out you will see the same cookie cutter looks being done. Whatever the most expensive aero and wheels that bolt right up are that’s what the majority of people go with. Frode, the owner of this M3 does not fall into this category however.
When Frode was 15, his best friend bought an E34 525i and later several E30’s. This is what initially sparked his interest in BMW’s and he’s never looked back. His first BMW was an E34 525i as well, but shortly it was replaced with an E36 328i.
I first discovered Frode when he had his E92 335i. At that time, it was different than the styling choices that most were going with for the E9X platform. I think it was mainly the formula of combining classic wheels with a newer chassis. Even though this formula later became THE trend, many people still don’t pull it off “correctly”. The wheel specs, the stance, or other exterior choices are just not there to go together harmoniously. Frode’s cars always flow very well and stand out from the crowd.
After the E92 he had an E46 320i converted to M3 briefly. He started his search for an F80 M3 though. He looked for a few months with no luck of finding one that he liked and able to justify the price for. So he stopped in a dealership to have a look at some M3’s and to simply see what color options were available. A salesman approached him and asked if he’d like to set up a car just for fun. Frode told him that he had no intention of buying a brand new car, but why not.
They set up the car with San Marino Blue and Amaro Brown leather. Within a few days the salesman contacted him saying that San Marino was approved by BMW Individual. After negotiating back and forth a few times he got the price down to around what used low mileage ones were typically going for. So he pulled the trigger.
Originally he didn’t order the car with the Competition Package, but right before it went into production he added it. He’s glad that he did, because the front seats are one of his favorite things about the car.
He picked the car up at BMW Welt in Germany and drove it home. Frode started buying mods right after ordering the car. He got lowering springs, a high kick spoiler, and a front lip. He later got Air Lift Performance suspension and has been through a few sets of wheels already. It’s hard to pick a favorite, but I’m going to go with these BBS RSII’s. The Rose Gold hardware/center cap was a nice touch to tie in the interior too. The previous wheels were OZ Futura and Hartge Design E. The next set of wheels sound awesome too, but I won’t ruin the surprise.
Other future plans for the car will be brakes and a BootMod3 Stage 1 tune to compliment the VRSF charge pipes, Injen intakes, AA midpipe and Remus axle back exhaust that are already installed. Besides that, Frode said the car is pretty much done as he doesn’t want to overdo it and I think that’s one of the crucial pieces to his formula.
You can follow Frode on IG: @frode_m3
