- 1550 wheel horsepower.
- 0–60mph in 1.57 seconds.
- Quarter mile in 7.91 seconds at 175mph.
If you have been anywhere near the BMW drag racing scene recently, you have probably heard about Tom Wrigley Performance’s G80 M3. It is a car that is redefining what is possible from BMW’s S58 platform. From the outside, it still looks recognisably like an M3, but beneath the surface it’s completely purpose-built for going as fast as possible.
Engine & Drivetrain
At the heart of this project is a fully built S58 engine featuring a 5150 AutoSport stroker kit, GSC camshafts and valve springs, with a cylinder head from Headgames Motorworks. The full assembly was handled by SpecJ, marking one of the few times Tom Wrigley Performance has partnered externally for an engine build.
Boost is provided by a Precision Next Gen Sportsman Turbo, mounted with a custom single turbo kit from Overkill Performance. Tom prefers to keep the exact turbo specifications under wraps and often changes the setup as he experiments with new configurations. Cooling is handled by an Overkill Performance front-mount charge cooler using a CSF core, supported by an ice box to keep intake temperatures under control. Tom also uses a Funk Motorsport turbo blanket to keep the big single turbo nice and cool.
The Radium Engineering fuel system uses a compact 15-litre tank with three pumps to feed the engine. A recently added nitrous system provides an extra push and will play a key role in taking the platform even further.
Power delivery comes through a DEKA Clutches-built gearbox and transfer case, while the differentials remain stock for now, with upgraded units on the way. The result is an incredibly responsive and powerful drivetrain capable of launching the car to 175 mph in under eight seconds.
Software is done in-house in collaboration with Mike Ball over MHD.
Suspension & Brakes
Putting that kind of power to the ground requires some serious suspension upgrades. Tom’s G80 runs AST MOTON 3-way suspension with external reservoirs, which he credits for eliminating squat and improving traction off the line. This setup is paired with Suspension Secrets adjustable control arms, fine-tuned for drag racing performance.
Braking is handled by a mix of stock and lightweight components. The front uses standard BMW brakes after Tom reverted from smaller lightweight discs, as the car’s speed now demands greater stopping power, especially for half-mile events. Aerospace Components lightweight rear brakes keep unsprung weight low while still providing excellent control on shorter runs.
Exterior Modifications
The exterior might look simple at first glance, but every detail serves a purpose. Up front, a Project Gamma headlight delete and MHC+ GT Style front grille optimise airflow and save weight. The car rides on West Forged lightweight front wheels with 17-inch beadlock rears for maximum traction on launch.
Underneath, Tom has fabricated a completely flat floor to improve stability and airflow at high speed. Lightweight carbon fibre doors, a carbon fibre bootlid and ACW plastic windows all contribute to major weight savings. A parachute sits proudly at the rear, a necessity for decelerating safely after a 175 mph run.
Of course, Tom has a full livery highlighting all the brands and partners involved with his incredible build.
Interior Modifications & Safety
Inside, the focus is purely on function and safety. A Tillett B10 XL carbon fibre bucket seat saves weight and keeps Tom securely in place, while a JQ Werks racing steering wheel system ensures precise control during each pass.
Safety equipment is extensive with a fully certified roll cage by SW Motorsports, alongside a fire suppression system and battery cut-off switch installed by Jay from German Autowerks. Santa Pod officials advised these additions, and Tom did not hesitate. Safety is a top priority when running cars of this calibre.
The Result
The result of countless hours of testing and development is a G80 M3 capable of running a 7.91-second quarter mile. Every component on the car has been chosen or modified with purpose, from the stroked engine and precision turbo setup to the suspension and safety systems.
Tom Wrigley’s G80 M3 stands as one of the fastest BMWs in the world and a true benchmark for what the S58 platform can achieve. And knowing Tom, this is unlikely to be the car’s final form.
