Modify with Purpose. 2021 represented a year of ideation and testing behind the scenes for Future Classic, the result of which will be several exciting additions to our own catalog. That said, there were also plenty of ideas that they scrapped—not because they wouldn’t have been good—but because a well-engineered, motorsport-worthy product should be both beautiful and purposeful, not just the former. That critical duality has been a cornerstone of FC’s manufacturing arm. Simply put, they only make parts that we would be proud to put on our own cars.
3D printed housing cap versus the first raw production piece
The first component that FC aimed to improve is the factory oil filter housing for S55, S58, S65, and S63-equipped BMW models. Across models, the factory cap is made of plastic which, by nature of the material, dissipates heat poorly and is prone to failure over repeated heat cycles. By contrast to the OEM unit, their cap is constructed from 6061-T6 aircraft-grade aluminum which promises two functional benefits: greater longevity and cooler running throughout its life cycle.
Future Classic leveraged 3D printing to prototype, which helped them move quickly through testing and, subsequently the first production piece.
The First of Many
The first of the four caps they manufactured was a decision of timing. The G8X (S58) is a new platform for the entire BMW aftermarket, and as such, many owners are just now passing break-in mileage. Since the S58’s oil filter housing sits at the back of the motor, there’s no better time to perform this mod than when you have to change your oil anyway. We were grateful for the opportunity to partner with Future classic to prototype and test on our G82 M4—giving us first crack at a production component while many still waited for their cars to arrive.
Fitment confirmation on the IND G82 M4
Material and Choice
Why Aluminum? Because of aluminum’s propensity to handle and dissipate heat, it is an excellent material from which to build oil filter housing caps. By getting your oil up to temperature quickly, but tangentially evacuating excess heat, the aluminum oil filter housing cap will help your fluid operate within its working range while effectively preventing thermal breakdown (at the threshold where your motor oil will degrade and lose viscosity). It is largely the reason why heat sensitive components, like your radiator, are constructed from the same material.
Function aside, they wanted to create a product with visual impact. Holding these caps in hand, it’s immediately apparent that each of them echo their commitment to the smallest aesthetic details. Special CNC tools were specifically sourced to accomplish exactly that and, as a result, each cap is a marvel right out of the DMG Mori 5-Axis. Anodized, the housing cap’s details are happily preserved but offer up a valuable way for an enthusiast to express their individuality. Four colors are available at launch to maximize choice: Ferrari Red, Royal Blue, Hard Coat Clear, and Hard Coat Black.
New Royal Blue anodized finish
New Hard Coat Clear anodized finish
Beautiful machining details throughout
The Finishing Touch
It wouldn't be a complete Future Classic product drop without a brand new livery box. Given the function of this component, they chose to fashion the oil filter housing box with a Gulf-inspired aesthetic. For the uninitiated, the backstory of the livery is proudly featured on the top side of the box.
All said and done, what began as an exercise to expand their own product line eventually turned into an emotionally evocative experience for all of us. And, simply put, it's that emotional connection to what we do that ensures we all produce exciting components for discerning enthusiasts. Much more to come soon.
Product Details:
- Compatible with S58-equipped BMW cars (replaces BMW 11428469099)
- Plug and play replacement for OE plastic cap
- CNC precision machined from 6061-T6 aerospace aluminum
- Improves heat dissipation and increases cap longevity
- Four anodizing options: Ferrari Red, Royal Blue, Hard Coat Clear, & Hard Coat Black
- Proudly made in USA
- Optional Add-On: Genuine BMW S58 oil filter kit (11 42 8 092 620)
Application List:
- G8X M3 / M4
- F97 X3M / F98 X4M