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Police Stop BMW E36 With Startling Modifications in Melbourne Suburb
A 64-year-old Australian car enthusiast found himself in the spotlight after police in Cranbourne North, near Melbourne, pulled him over for driving a classic BMW E36 3-Series that was far from road-ready. While project cars are often works in progress, this particular sedan was missing several critical elements, turning heads for all the wrong reasons.
Initial Traffic Stop Unveils Missing Hood
The incident occurred at around 3:15 p.m. when Narre Warren police noticed the burgundy BMW E36 sedan traveling without its hood. The absence of this essential body panel immediately raised suspicions, prompting officers to initiate a stop and take a closer look at the vehicle’s overall condition.
The Shocking State of the Interior
What officers found inside was even more surprising: the car had no regular seats installed. Instead, the driver had improvised by placing a plastic garden chair in the driver’s seat position, topped with a couple of cushions for added comfort. Although the seatbelt was fastened over the chair, it offered little to no actual safety. The unanchored chair rested loosely on the carpeted floor, creating a hazardous setup that could result in severe injury even in the event of a minor collision or sudden braking.
Legal and Safety Implications
Under Australian traffic laws, driving a vehicle missing major components—particularly those crucial to occupant safety like a proper seat—is illegal and subject to strict penalties. While simply lacking a hood could lead to fines, the absence of a secure seat was considered a serious safety violation. The driver admitted to authorities that he was aware of the car’s poor condition but claimed he was en route to collect replacement parts. Police, however, made it clear that this did not justify operating a non-roadworthy car on public roads. A defect notice was issued on-site, barring any further movement of the BMW until it’s rendered safe and legal, and the driver will face charges in court.
The BMW E36 3-Series: An Enthusiast Favorite
Despite these legal woes, the BMW E36 remains a beloved model among car fans worldwide. Produced from 1990 to 2000, the E36 3-Series is famed for its precise handling, classic styling, and robust performance. Engine variants ranged from fuel-efficient four-cylinders to performance-oriented inline-six options. Well-known for its dynamic chassis and balanced driving experience, the E36 maintains a loyal following as both a daily driver and a platform for car modification projects.
Market Position and Comparisons
During its original production run, the E36 3-Series competed closely with rivals such as the Mercedes-Benz C-Class and Audi A4, often standing out for its rear-wheel-drive layout and sporty feel. Even decades later, it is still prized in the used car market, especially among enthusiasts interested in restoration and tuning.
Final Thoughts
While the passion of project car builders is admirable, safety and legality must always come first. Let this serve as a reminder to ensure a car is fully roadworthy before taking it on public roads. The BMW E36’s enduring popularity is deserving—but it’s best enjoyed when the vehicle is both safe and compliant.
Source: carscoops
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