Starting a build/restore journal for the first time time on a car. This is a recent pickup for me and a return to the M3 chassis and car world in general after being away for 8 years. I truly miss having a vehicle to work on and help bring back to proper condition and this journal will hopefully help document that process. A few highlights of the car:
- 2002 M3 Individual Japanrot Red SMG
- Harmon Kardon System
- Cosmetically rough condition but mechanically pretty well sorted.
- Until 2024, this was a one owner old lady owned car in Winter Park, FL. Serviced at Fields of Winter Park its whole life. Someone tapped the front bumper and minor hood and bumper movement caused the owner to park it in her driveway for 6 years. Much of the paint and interior (fish bowl glass no UV protection) wis damaged and needs help.
- Fast forward to 2024, an old friend caught wind of an Individual color order M3 rotting in a driveway, noticed by someone else he knew while at a garage sale next door. He promptly negotiated a deal on the car and since his ownership it has been living in his workshop.
- During his ownership he had performed the big three, and addressed numerous other issues.
- I purchased the car in June 2025 and here the journey begins under my ownership. I took a one way flight to Orlando and hauled the car back to Virginia on the Amtrak auto train.
- The car will live indoors a garage with a dedicated spot out of the elements.
- 2002 M3 Individual Japanrot Red SMG
- Harmon Kardon System
- Cosmetically rough condition but mechanically pretty well sorted.
- Until 2024, this was a one owner old lady owned car in Winter Park, FL. Serviced at Fields of Winter Park its whole life. Someone tapped the front bumper and minor hood and bumper movement caused the owner to park it in her driveway for 6 years. Much of the paint and interior (fish bowl glass no UV protection) wis damaged and needs help.
- Fast forward to 2024, an old friend caught wind of an Individual color order M3 rotting in a driveway, noticed by someone else he knew while at a garage sale next door. He promptly negotiated a deal on the car and since his ownership it has been living in his workshop.
- During his ownership he had performed the big three, and addressed numerous other issues.
- I purchased the car in June 2025 and here the journey begins under my ownership. I took a one way flight to Orlando and hauled the car back to Virginia on the Amtrak auto train.
- The car will live indoors a garage with a dedicated spot out of the elements.