Project managers at German tuning brand Manhart have set their sights on the BMW M135i xDrive hot hatch. Their latest Manhart MH1 350 exploits have harnessed 350 horsepower from the Bavarian 2.0-litre motor while giving the exterior their usual treatment.
While it has done away with the iconic sounding in-line six cylinder motor that was so adored by enthusiasts and Bavarian aficionados, the latest BMW 1 series has fallen victim to the downsizing trend. While many would appreciate the sonorous exhaust tone of the N54 twin-turbo six-cylinder in the potent hot hatch, Manhart has simply tweaked the existing 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine in the M135i xDrive to push out 350 hp (261 kW).
Simple tricks that enable the combustion engine to breathe easier exist in the form of a carbon fibre intake, enlarged downpipe and a full exhaust upgrade while a Manhart control unit keeps everything in check and enables the MH1 350 its 33 kW power increase over its stock counterpart.
Other performance upgrades include a 28 mm lowered suspension setup compliments of H&R Springs while 20-inch Manhart GTS wheels line the four corners of the hot hatch in 235/30 tyres. An optional brake upgrade is also available to help provide additional stopping power to the performance gains.
The visual aspect of the MH1 350 has also undergone the usual Manhart treatment with plenty of black paint and an all-round bodykit. A prominent rear diffuser and front splitter are found fore and aft while side skirts line the flanks. All of this in addition to the lowered suspension alludes to a much more aggressive stance.
Red pinstripes and the polished rim face do add a mild touch of colour and contrast to the blacked out MH1 350 which has opted for the ‘murdered out’ look with darkened grille, wheel inserts, mirrors and all other trim.
