Optic Balance – Detailing the ideal M4
Modifying the M4 has proved to be a daunting undertaking- how do you personalize the extroverted M4 to have more visual impact, without pushing the modifications to the point of excess? How do you exercise the very restraint that BMW is so well known for? We feel that the M4 you see in this photo set met this challenge with aplomb.
The Black Sapphire on black M4 allowed us a wide range of accent color options and lent to easy integration of carbon fiber into the overall appearance. Our client’s vehicle has already seen several stages of development, and I’m certain that the setup seen here is not the last variant.
An IND cosmetic package was one of the first rounds of modifications performed, replacing unsightly reflectors for body colored ones and our traditional gloss black finish to replace the chrome items. The client then chose Vorsteiner’s lip/diffuser set, and Enlaes’ carbon side sills to accentuate the M4’s already assertive lines. The initial wheel and suspension setup we went with was KW’s height adjustable springs combined with HRE’s FF01 wheels in Tarmac. Sitting a bit lower and the black on black exterior lent to a classically intimidating appearance.
Eventually after many long conversations and with some inspiration from our M4, our client decided that there was something missing – and we started all over.
Custom headlights by OneEighty were specced in a manner that adds excitement without distracting from the rest of the car- even these feel subtle at first glance, but showcase a striking attention to detail upon closer inspection.
Eventuri’s air intake system was added in gloss black carbon fiber to complete the aural experience. Combined with an Eventuri gloss carbon fiber engine cover and Evolution Racewerks polished charge pipes compliment the engine bay perfectly, giving it a no-nonsense but stylish appearance.
An Eisenmann exhaust system gives the car a bassy rumble at idle, yielding to a scream as the RPMs climb.Eisenmann’s stainless steel exhaust system is finished with brushed stainless steel exhaust tips- a perfect match for the FI-R wheels, and an excellent point of contrast against the Vorsteiner rear diffuser.
A set of BBS’ FI-R wheels were treated to a brushed silver finish which gives this M4 a classic look, until a closer inspection reveals their 19/20 diameter stagger, polished center caps, and MRG titanium stud kit. Michelin Super Sport tires in 265/35/19 front and 295/30/20 rear complete the GTS inspired wheel package.
KW 3-way Clubsports allowed us to set the ride height and camber of the M4, while also drastically improving the handling and bringing this aspect of the car to GTS standards.
Brembo’s 380mm brake kit rounds out the dynamic performance of the car, and simultaneously offer a splash of color in an otherwise monochromatic M4 with their Bavaria Blue finish.
Finally, the interior of the car was perfected to match the understated but impactful exterior. The original brushed aluminum trim was removed in favor of BMW’s carbon fiber trim. We swapped the M Performance wheel for a the original leather steering wheel – reupholstered in a perforated alcantara.
This M4 has brought us all a breath of fresh air. A natural progression toward more extroverted styling is inevitable for our staff- we have all been modifying BMW cars for nearly 15 years, and the median tends to shift over time as we pursue new and fresh ideas. This M4 is unique in its ability to reinvent a classic look, by carefully addressing the finer details. We are thrilled to have helped our client create this M4, and we hope that you enjoy the photos of the car as much as we enjoyed helping to materialize our client’s vision.
