As we are all motoring enthusiasts at Motoring Echo, we love sharing personal moments related to all forms of motorsports, hobbies, and everything car-related. We’re therefore excited to announce that an exhilarating classic BMW 3-Series, inspired by the fierce spirit of Group 2 race cars, has just claimed the top spot at the 2025 Hot Wheels Legends Tour UK! This remarkable E21, which is track-ready and weighs just 900 kg, is the stunning result of a passionate 14-year journey undertaken by the talented father-and-son duo, Paul and Ethan Foster from Wickford, Essex.
Paul Foster’s 1982 BMW E21 is a stunning homage to Group 2 aesthetics, featuring impressive 345/35/15 rear tyres, a sleek fibreglass wide-arch kit, and a striking front splitter. Its vibrant race livery, with eye-catching violet, red, and blue accents, celebrates the iconic BMW touring cars of the ’80s and ’90s. Beneath that impressive exterior lies a powerhouse: a 420 bhp 5.0-litre Rover V8 that combines striking design with exhilarating performance.
“This win is absolutely incredible! Building this car with my son, Ethan, has been a journey filled with unforgettable moments, and it’s definitely a treasured project for us. We’ve loved Hot Wheels since we were kids!” Paul Foster joyfully remarked. “We are absolutely thrilled to represent the UK in the next round!”
The competition was fierce, with Hot Wheels designer Charlie Angulo joining judges Nicola Hume, Jordan Clarke, and Mat Armstrong to evaluate 200 impressive entries down to just seven outstanding finalists. The classic Jaguar Mark VII and Paul’s BMW 3 Series stood out, making it to the final round. For the third year in a row, the public voiced their choice, with an incredible total of 37,006 votes for the Volkswagen Polo!
Now, Paul’s BMW is preparing for the European final, part of a series of exciting regional challenges leading to the opportunity to shine in the Global Grand Finale. The ultimate champion will be celebrated in the Hot Wheels Garage of Legends™, along with their very own die-cast model!
The 2025 Hot Wheels Legends Tour UK proudly partners with fantastic organisations such as Smyths Toys Superstores, Forge Motorsport, and Collecting Cars. Paul is also set to receive amazing gifts, including a Collecting Cars merchandise bundle and a Forge Motorsport voucher. What an exciting adventure awaits ahead!
