Fans of Formula Drift and the EEDC are already well-acquainted with HGK Motorsport, known for crafting some of the most impressive BMW drift cars worldwide, including Kristaps Blušs’ Formula Drift E46. Their latest endeavor features an 11-year-old Latvian driver named Nikolass Bertans, who is set to compete in a BMW E36 M3 pro drift car.
The original S50 engine of the M3 has been replaced with a robust 6.2-liter LS3 engine, a popular choice among professional drifters. Additional modifications enhance its performance, including Wisefab front and rear angle kits, Feal coilovers, Wilwood brakes, a rear-mounted radiator, a Samsonas sequential gearbox, and a Winters differential, among others.
Visually, Nikolass’s M3 showcases a Formula Drift-spec roll cage and a meticulously prepared chassis, highlighted by bright orange crash bars that peek out from beneath a striking carbon fiber and kevlar body.
To accommodate Nikolass’s smaller frame, several adjustments were made to ensure comfortable operation. An adjustable pedal box and steering wheel allow for a closer fit, making the car more accessible for the young driver.
While it may be a stretch to refer to Nikolass’s vehicle as a BMW M3, given the extensive modifications, work is still ongoing. Enthusiasts will have to wait a bit longer to see how this talented preteen maneuvers his BMW in the drift circuit, and many share in the disappointment of this delay.
For those interested in following Nikolass’s journey, the first episode of “The 11-Year-Old’s First Pro Drift Car” can be viewed on the Robyworks YouTube channel..
