Bizarro BMW 3-Series E46 Compact Lost Itself In A 1940s Retro Maze

A modified BMW 3-Series E46 Compact was recently spotted in Ukraine as a DIY reverse restomod project with a questionable outcome. The unknown builder appears to have drawn inspiration from the work of the Japanese company Mitsuoka, incorporating retro-inspired elements into the front and rear sections of the compact rear-wheel drive hatch.

With no sign of similar cars online, it seems like this could be a one-of-a-kind creation rather than a kit offered by a tuner. While we can appreciate the builder’s enthusiasm, it’s safe to say that the resulting car has a face that only a mother could love. The most prominent change is the removal of BMW’s traditional double kidney grille, replaced by a much taller and chrome-infused grille that seems to have taken inspiration from a Cadillac from the ’40s.

More: Mitsuoka Turns Honda Civic Into A Dodge Challenger Impersonator

Photos: HoneyRush / Reddit

Additional noteworthy alterations comprise the hood bulge, the addition of yellow foglights, and the incorporation of metal bumpers on both the front and rear. Interestingly, the tailgate now features a full-size spare tire affixed to it, likely leading to an expanded trunk space.

While we don’t like being harsh on other people’s cars, this one is admittedly hard to digest. Commenters on Reddit, where we stumbled upon these photos, seem to share the sentiment that while the BMW 3-Series E46 Compact was never considered a head-turner, the addition of retro styling cues doesn’t exactly improve matters. Nonetheless, there could be some who appreciate the novelty of cruising in a custom vehicle, even if it’s built on the foundation of a discontinued entry-level BMW from yesteryears.

We don’t know what powers this retro-flavored build, but in its heyday, the 3-Series Compact offered an array of gasoline and diesel powertrains. The base 316i came equipped with a 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine, delivering 114 hp (85 kW / 116 PS), while the range-topping 325ti boasted a more potent 2.5-liter six-cylinder engine, churning out a respectable 189 hp (141 kW / 192 PS).

For those in need of a quick reminder, the second generation 3-Series Compact was introduced in 2000. It was built upon a shorter variant of the E46 platform and retained the distinctive hatchback design, reminiscent of its predecessor. In 2004, production of the 3-Series Compact came to an end, and it was succeeded by the newer and more traditional 1-Series in BMW’s lineup.

BMW 3-Series E46 Compact