The advent of four-wheel drive in a host of previously rear-driven performance cars has opened up a whole world of tuning possibilities. Not so long ago even standard power was probably too much for certain BMW M cars and AMGs; now the latest AWD systems can permit rear-drive silliness if it’s needed as well as far better contain monster power. A win-win situation, especially with turbo V8s and sixes that respond so well to tuning.
Manhart has been taking full advantage for a while now, though for 2024 it’s really upped the ante. Aside from some dubious contrast accents and aftermarket wheels, this looks like an M5 Competition. Even the inside doesn’t give too much away, the most notable change being the introduction of a rather swish Alcantara starlight headlining. There’s more carbon and some additional badges, though nothing really to suggest this has more than 900hp…
Yep, the MH5 900 Limited does even better than what’s written on the tin, boasting 928hp and 915lb ft. That’s another 303hp and 362lb ft on top of the already-very-rapid standard Competition. From the S63 4.4-litre V8 first seen in the original X5 and X6 M. To achieve such monster power, the standard turbos were swapped for Manhart’s blowers, with air now coming in via a carbon intake and out through a new stainless steel exhaust with race downpipes. The intercooler is uprated, and the internals (thank goodness) are now stronger as well: the Carillo pistons and conrods are said to be rated to 1,200hp… A remapped ECU is there to manage all the new hardware.
Interestingly, Manhart hasn’t yet issued any performance data for the MH5 900 Limited, presumably confident that it’s going to be more than fast enough for any potential customers. Bear in mind BMW claims 3.4 seconds to 62mph and 11.1 seconds to double it for a standard car - as well as a 189mph speed limit raise from the factory - and it’s clear that the Manhart M5 is going to boast incredible acceleration.
Additional changes for this car include the fitment of KW V4 coilovers and Manhart’s own wheels, though notably the ceramic brake that’s optional on a Competition has been deemed adequate for the additional performance. There’s a new carbon bonnet in the style of the CS and a few other styling add ons, but no great claims are made of increased downforce or reduced weight.
Manhart will convert just five Competitions to MH5 900 Limited spec, with the usual array of personalisation possibilities available. Naturally, it won’t come cheap, because 928hp is a massive amount (and even the starlight headlining is €2,000 on its own), though it’s easy to imagine five dedicated folk with easy access to an autobahn being tempted. And there’s no need to truly berserk: a performance kit including the turbo upgrade costs just over €20k and brings with it 823hp. Facelifted Comps start at less than £60k…
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