Table of contents
Introduction
European cars are at the forefront of motorsport and are iconic in their own way. However, finding the best European cars to modify is seen as a market for those with big wallets. AMGs, M cars, and Audi RS models are often the cars that come to mind with modified European cars. Fortunately, that is simply not the case. Some of the best european cars to modify are ready for you to purchase at a reasonable price! From highly tunable four cylinder motors to huge V8s, the European market has it all. Follow along in this article as we cover some of the best European cars to modify and see how they can fit in your budget!
The Best European Cars To Modify
#1 Volkswagen Golf GTI
When people think of German tuner cars, the Volkswagen GTI is at the top of this list. Ever since the GTI came into existence, this hot hatch has been thrown into motorsports and the tuning scene. With its low weight, great handling, and huge aftermarket, it is an absolute gem to modify. What makes the GTI a great tuner car is its engine options. The 1.8 liter turbo has a massive aftermarket and great potential for power. If turbos aren’t your thing, you can always go for one of the coolest sounding engines ever, the VR6. The VR6 has this wide open throttle roar that is simply addicting. The naturally aspirated 6 cylinder is hands down one of the best sounding 6 cylinders on the market.
The best part about searching for a GTI to modify is the low entry price. Depending on age, you can get into one for as little as $5,000 with a manual transmission and the 1.8 turbo engine. With the limitless aftermarket available, you can do some cool things with the GTI. Overall, the GTI’s performance and value absolutely make it one of the best European cars to modify when you’re on a budget.
#2 BMW E36
For years, the E36 has been the red-headed step child of BMWs. Often overlooked by the famed E46 or the beloved E30, the E36 desirability was on the lower end so prices have shot down. However, in the last five years or so, there has been a big resurgence of this awesome sports car. The E36 is an awesome rear-wheel drive platform that is very accessible for the budget-minded enthusiast. The lower end 3 series can be purchased around $2500-$4000 depending on specs and condition. Alternatively, the E36 M3 will be closer to the $10,000 to $15,000 range. Fortunately, the resurgence in attention on the E36 brings access to aftermarket support. Engine swap kits, modern modifications, and more are easily sorted. Nowadays, it is seen as a great entry level track car and have a big presence at track days.
#3 Volvo S60R
If there’s one thing I have learned in the modified car community, it’s to not underestimate a Volvo. The Volvo S60R is one of many sleeper cars in the manufacturer’s lineup, and is one of my favorite underappreciated cars on the market. 300 horsepower, a manual transmission, all-wheel drive, and some modifications will make this car into an absolute beast.
A huge pro of this car is that this car can still be a reliable and comfortable daily driver with modifications. Luckily, this car is still easily picked up in the $7,000 to $10,000 range on the used car market. If you want comfort, performance, and an awesome sounding 5 cylinder engine, consider the S60R.
#4 W211 Mercedes-Benz E63 AMG
Now I have to admit, if it wasn’t for one of my close friends, I would have no idea why this car is on the list. Awhile back, my friend purchased a W211 E63 AMG for around $14,000. He is a huge AMG fan and always talked about wanting one and he had the opportunity to purchase the car you see pictured. A huge 6.3 liter engine, every creature comfort known to man, and excellent performance is hard to beat in a super saloon. Some may consider the maintenance being an issue, but with some blood, sweat, tears, and YouTube, it can be managed. Take advantage of luxury car depreciation and get into one of the best European cars to modify.
#5 BMW 335i
BMW knew exactly what they were doing when they gave us the N54 Twin turbocharged Inline 6. The E9X BMW 3 series is a great all-around platform. It has an awesome blend of luxury, driving dynamics, and power potential. From the factory, the 335i sends you from 0-60 miles per hour in 5.4 seconds. While it has some quirks with the turbos, the aftermarket has plenty of aftermarket options to skyrocket the power and improve the durability of the car. For an average price of $15,000, you can get a good condition 335i on used car sites and Facebook marketplace no problem.
If you are looking to modify a car, such as a 335i, consider reading our awesome project car guide to get you started!
#6 Audi B5 S4
If you want the original German 2JZ, then look no further than the B5 S4. Audi knew the world needed a twin turbocharged all-wheel drive beast, and they delivered. With 250 horsepower and a dream, the B5 S4 took some buyers away from the likes of the M3 and put them behind the wheel of this premier German sports car. Unfortunately, the B5 S4 is plagued with a reputation of being unreliable. The turbochargers and some supporting parts are going to fail. The engine, however, is fairly reliable.
While the reliability is questionable, this car transforms into a powerhouse with a tune and an exhaust. Since the turbos are going to fail, just swap them and start pushing those power numbers up! While a simple tune, intake, and exhaust can push you towards 350 horsepower, a turbo swap can propel you to almost 500 horsepower! Not too shabby for a twenty five year old Audi.
#7 Volkswagen Beetle
Probably Europe’s most iconic vehicle, the Volkswagen Beetle is known for transforming into many different types of cars. From drag racing to rat-rods, the Volkswagen Beetle does it all. The Beetle is easily accessible, even with its classic car status. In its purest form, the air-cooled 1.6 liter engine is extremely fun as it is perfect for beginners. You will learn tuning easily as there is tons of guides, videos, and documentation for this engine. Also, this 60 horsepower engine is a blast because you can hammer on the throttle without concern of losing the car.
If this is the platform for you, you can transform it into literally anything. There are tons of engine swaps, such as the Subaru EJ motor, and a huge aftermarket to cater to your needs. Best of all, these cars can still be obtained for under $15,000. The Volkswagen Beetle, as its been for generations, will continue to be one of the best European cars to modify.
Honorable Mention: Ford Focus ST
Now, here me out. While this is an American car, the Ford Focus ST is entirely European. Not only was the Focus ST and Focus RS only available in Europe for the majority of its life, but the driving experience matches it. This hot hatchback has a nimble body, punchy turbo 4 cylinder motor, and an awesome 6-speed gearbox. While front-wheel drive is a typical turn off for people, they have not seen how well these perform on back roads and tracks.
I had the pleasure of owning a 2016 Focus ST for about four years and loved every second of it. The car takes well to modifications and there are tons of documented builds to give you ideas for your project car. Fortunately, we can assist you to as we have a guide to Focus ST modifications that’ll get you started! With these cars being around $10,000-$15,000, it is an easy sell for someone wanting a European driving experience with a great aftermarket.
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