Unleashed Beast: Manhart's BMW M2 Transformation Unveils a 552-HP Powerhouse
When whispers began about Manhart’s project on the BMW M2, enthusiasts were brimming with anticipation. The Wuppertal-based tuning maestro has finally pulled back the curtain to reveal its latest creation - a nefariously sophisticated iteration of the BMW M2, now boasting 552 horsepower under its hood, draped with bold carbon bits and rolling on imposing 21-inch wheels. This first stage of Manhart's upgrades has arguably set a new benchmark in automotive customization, hinting at more extreme modifications in the pipeline.
In the realm of high-performance tuning, every detail matters. Manhart has taken the twin-turbo 3.0-liter inline-six engine and injected it with a hefty 99 hp (74 kW / 101 PS) increase. This monumental boost, facilitated by Manhart’s MHtronic control unit, propels the M2 to a staggering 552 hp (412 kW / 560 PS) and 650 Nm (479 lb-ft) of torque, leaving even its bigger siblings, the M3 and M4, in its dust. Yet, there's an insinuation that we've only scratched the surface of what's possible.
To ensure that this prodigious power doesn’t go to waste, Manhart has meticulously tweaked the vehicle’s acoustics with a new exhaust system featuring sport or race downpipes, creating a sound symphony worthy of its performance. The suspension hasn't been overlooked, with V4 coilovers by KW Suspension providing an adaptable ride. For those seeking a less intense adjustment, simpler coil-over springs are available.
Yet, it's not all about what lies beneath. The MH2 560 captivates visually, striking the perfect balance between aggression and elegance. Gone are the exaggerated previews, replaced with a tactfully enhanced aesthetic. Carbon fiber adorns the front, with a precision-crafted splitter and a vented hood that screams performance even at a standstill. The car's sides remain largely unchanged, respecting the factory-fit wide fenders, with the addition of 20 or 21-inch alloy wheels, depending on the owner’s taste.
The rear end sees a departure from the official renders, with a pronounced carbon spoiler lip taking center stage, accompanied by a bespoke carbon diffuser embracing four 100-mm matte black tailpipes. The result? A menacingly beautiful silhouette that promises as much as it delivers. The car's finishing touches—a blend of matte grey and blue decals—complement its sinister aura, contrasted against diamond-polished wheels.
For enthusiasts ready to mirror this menacing look, a visit to Manhart’s online shop would reveal a detailed price breakdown for each component, from splitters to spoilers. While cosmetic enhancements could run over €20k (about $22k), considering power upgrades and potential interior works, the investment speaks volumes of the car’s transformed character and performance.
With this latest project, Manhart doesn’t just rebuild a car; it crafts a narrative of power, prestige, and unparalleled performance. The BMW M2, through the lens of Manhart, becomes more than a vehicle—it becomes a statement.