A 8,000km Speedhunting Quest To SouthernBM

After 12 hours in the air, Melbourne, Australia beckoned. Despite the jet lag, my excitement propelled me forward. With the taste of a hastily devoured burger still lingering, I set my sights on SouthernBM. No time to waste – the Speedhunting begins now.

This journey all started with a Bimmer buddy of mine, who bombarded my social media feed with images of SouthernBM’s Andrew Brien showing off a jaw-dropping green E92 BMW M3 racer and a vintage BMW 3.0 CSL. After enduring what felt like endless shares and messages, my curiosity was thoroughly piqued. I knew I had to make a pilgrimage from my home in Shanghai, China to the Southern Hemisphere’s ultimate independent BMW sanctuary.

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The excitement kicked in as I turned onto Sullivan Street in Moorabbin. It might as well be dubbed ‘BMW Boulevard’ given the array of Bayerische Motoren Werke models parked roadside, many of the M variety.

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Stepping through the gates of SouthernBM, I was warmly greeted by Eric Wang, who ushered me into the Southern Classic Garage for a tour.

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Connected to the main workshop, this area housed an impressive array of M cars, Alpinas, and classic BMW models. These cars, some belonging the company heads, and others brought in by clients for maintenance, rebuilds and refurbishments, showcased the rich history and passion for craftsmanship within SouthernBM’s walls.

My eyes immediately fixed on the M3 racer and the iconic 3.0 CSL.

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There was little time for prolonged admiration, though. My feet led me towards the M5 with its hood popped open. Just like the adjacent E92 in matte Frozen Grey, both cars boast an SBM-developed supercharger kit.

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Thanks to impeccable lighting and a pristine environment, the seemingly haphazard arrangement of cars inside SouthernBM was nothing short of ingenious. Vehicles were strategically positioned on different levels, creating a captivating visual spectacle. Shooting this dynamic space filled me with exhilaration.

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It honestly made me feel like I’d been transported into a time-bending fusion of the 1970s and 2020s. The space exuded a charm that even surpassed that of the BMW Museum for me, evoking a sense of nostalgia and wonder.

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As I stepped into the workshop, I saw Eric’s M2 Competition. This car, his daily track machine, even has its own dedicated Instagram account, a testament to his passion and dedication.

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It may have been a real journey to get here, but visiting SouthernBM filled me with a renewed appreciation for the artistry and dedication that goes into every BMW creation. I left, eagerly anticipating my next Speedhunting adventure.

Bruno Han
Instagram: panin1x

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1

Bruno

It's BMW HEAVEN!!! Some unreal Bimmers up in there!! Love the old school. E36es. CSLs. E46. My neighbor has a 2022 M8 Competition. Just incredible!!!

If it's German, I'm with it!!! Porsche rules!!!

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2
Lamborghini Rupert

Good article. The silver e92 in the opening shot could use a polish

3

I believe that's actually a Frozen Edition M3, they came from the factory in that matte-ish finish and are super rare

4
Lamborghini Rupert

My mistake, thank you. Hard to see on my phone screen. Just sitting here waiting for a flatbed tow truck that can accommodate low cars

5

Your handle is legendary. I heard you speed tape your nuts to lotus owners faces for drag reduction. Can you confirm?

6

Man a BMW fanboy like me would love to go to this place
Literally the best of BMW literally the best of Bavarian Motor Works right here!

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