The BMW performance specialists from Geilenkirchen have taken the stock 4.0-liter V8 mill out and replaced it with the 4.4-liter V8 motor from the BMW X5/X6 M SAVs. Add in a couple of modified turbos plus a larger intercooler, titanium full exhaust with two racing catalytic converters, reinforced pistons and rods plus an X6M oil cooler and power output swells from an already potent 555 PS (408 kW / 547 hp) to 750 PS (551 kW / 740 bhp) and 910 Nm (671 lb-ft) of torque. To handle all of that torque the 6-speed M Sport automatic transmission is also adopted from the X6M in addition to an E60 M5 locking differential. With a dry weight of 1,590 kg (3505 lbs) the power to weight ratio is 2.12kg per horsepower. For comparison the Lamborghini Aventador with 700 PS (515 kW / 690 bhp) and weighing 1,575 kg achieves 2.25kg per horsepower. As a result, the 0-100 km/h arrives in 3.2 seconds and keeps on pulling beyond 350 km/h (217 mph). Naturally, with that kind of momentum generated in a 2.5 ton vehicle, upgraded braking is mandatory. Manhart has added a MOVIT brake system which includes 6 piston fixed calipers on the front with 396x34 millimeter discs and 4-piston calipers with 380x32 millimeter discs on the rear. For enhanced aerodynamics the exterior receives a complete carbon fiber kit which includes the front lower spoiler, hood, side skirts, wheel arch extensions, side skirts, luggage lid, adjustable rear wing and rear diffuser. Other parts made in carbon fiber include the engine cover and side mirrors. Made in-house, the wheels are the ultra-light Concave One "Black Edition" monoblock forged wheels in 9x20 with 255/30ZR20 Continental Sport Contact 5 high performance tires up front while 12x20-inch wheels with 325/25 tires are in the back. Suspension is capped off with threaded coilovers. Lastly, Manhart Racing also followed through with the interior by giving the MH3 V8 RS Clubsport in-house developed carbon fiber full-shell seats, but also a Wiechers roll cage was built in. A Manhart Racing display is also integrated into the middle console. It provides driving data like pending charge pressure, G-forces or measured acceleration and best Vmax values.
Tuesday, March 13, 2012