We Realized You Shouldn't Feed BMWs Past Midnight | Carscoops

      This striking SUV began as a BMW X5 and has been transformed into a raised, reptilian-inspired beast with off-road capabilities.

      A heavily modified first-generation BMW X5 is currently available for sale on eBay.

      It boasts a custom hood, wide fenders, and a hand-textured wrap reminiscent of reptilian skin.

      Additionally, the SUV features a lifted suspension and a reprogrammed 400 hp V8 engine.

      It’s rare to see a two-decade-old BMW SUV that appears to have just stepped out of a Mad Max audition. The original E53 BMW X5, launched 26 years ago, has aged surprisingly gracefully with its clean, muscular lines. However, one British owner felt that “subtle” wasn’t quite the direction they wanted to go.

      They gave the X5 4.8iS—arguably the closest the E53 ever got to a genuine M model—a complete makeover, starting with a custom hood and a hand-textured finish covering the entire body. The outcome is certainly attention-grabbing, whether in admiration or confusion.

      The front end immediately draws the eye with its oddly snout-like silhouette. The BMW kidney grille is elevated, resting on a bulging hood that contributes to a more animal-like appearance. This unique and somewhat polarizing design was created by modifying the original hood and welding aluminum sections to elevate the center part.

      In line with the striking hood, custom fiberglass fender flares were added at both ends, seamlessly integrating with the doors and bumpers. The entire exterior is coated in Raptor paint, meticulously crafted by hand to replicate the look of scaled skin.

      Another notable feature includes 18-inch KMC wheels fitted with 33-inch mud-terrain tires. These are paired with a lift kit and a bull bar, giving the X5 a formidable stance suitable for serious off-roading.

      Under the hood lies a 4.8-liter V8, which is the most powerful engine available in this generation of the X5. From the factory, it produced 355 hp (265 kW / 360 PS), but after an ECU remap, it now nears 400 hp.

      The original air suspension has been swapped out for fixed springs, lowering the front by 65 mm (2.6 inches) and the rear by 50 mm (2 inches). Brembo brakes have been added at each corner, and the exhaust has been modified for a more aggressive tone.

      All these modifications were completed over three months, finishing in early 2019. The X5 has remained with the same owner since and is now listed for sale on eBay. The listing states, “pictures do not do this car justice compared to seeing it in person.”

      Despite its heavily altered appearance, this X5 was used as a daily driver, and the odometer shows 102,000 miles (164,153 km). The seller claims it has a comprehensive service history and that most components have been well-maintained.

      The builder, who still retains ownership of the vehicle, has listed it for £24,950 ($33,800). This is a substantial price for a first-generation X5, regardless of its modifications. Nevertheless, it's considered a bargain compared to the exorbitant price tag once associated with the ultra-rare BMW Sbarro XX5 a few years ago.