by Brian Potter September 23, 2008 12:09 PM
Filed Under: BMW, German, Tuners
German based BMW Group tuning specialist Hartge first showed us off-the-shelf parts for the 1-Series coupe when it was first released, and then shortly followed with the aerodynamics kits. Now Hartge have developed an ECU upgrade for BMW's already potent 3.0-liter bitrubo engine in the 135i coupe releasing an additional 44hp.
The result is a total of 350hp at 5660 rpm and 480 Nm (lb-ft 354) at 2950 rpm. The sprint from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) arrives in 4.8 seconds – a half second faster than its standard 5.3 seconds. Also, an unrestricted top speed allows 280 km/h (174mph).
Hartge states that a 135i fully equipped with the entire suite of components will cost in Germany € 48,162.14, excluding VAT. See press release below for more details.
HARTGE has given the world's first inline six-cylinder engine with twin turbo-chargers and a second generation direct-injection system a power boast of 44 hp - and that at the same time as maintaining its extremely good fuel consumption of only 9.2 litres per 100 kilometres (EU combined). HARTGE not only offers an additional ECU, which transforms the 3-litre engine of the compact BMW 135i Coupé into a powerhouse generating a massive 257 kW (350 hp) at 5660 rpm and 480 Nm (lb-ft 354) at 2950 rpm, and naturally also the chance to enjoy unlimited driving pleasure at speeds of up to 280 km/h. For the dash from 0 to 100 km/h (0 - 62 mph), the 135i Coupé from HARTGE is half a second faster than its standard brother while the 25 mm lower sports suspension guarantees safety thanks to even greater directional stability and outstanding handling on twisting roads.
Beguiling looks and sound, improved aerodynamics
The interaction of the visually appealing aerodynamic parts - front spoiler lip, roof spoiler, lip for boot lid, rear diffuser and side sills - brings about a significant improvement in negative lift at high speeds. Simply chic: The set of CLASSIC 2 aluminium wheels in the dimension 9 x 20" offset 40 fitted with Pirelli PZero Nero tyres (245 / 30 ZR 20 front and rear). The 135i Coupé from HARTGE is a car that should not only be seen and driven but also heard. And this is possible thanks to a sonorous exhaust note, which emerges from the dual round tail pipes of the stainless steel rear silencer embedded in the left and right of the diffuser.
Other HARTGE accessories help make the car more individual. They include: A decal set in metallic anthracite, a set of carbon (silver or black) casings for exterior mirrors, emblems for the bonnet and boot lid and a HARTGE insignia (140 x 32 mm).
Sports interior
For all models, HARTGE offers an attractive 3-spoke leather steering wheel with silver (or black) carbon inserts. This material is also used for the HARTGE steering wheel cover for vehicles with BMW 3-spoke sports airbag steering wheel with (and without) multi function and for interior trim for the dash board, gear lever panelling and door handles. HARTGE offers an illuminated gear knob, including an alcantara gaiter for the 6-speed manual gear box and the handbrake handle in a tasteful combination of leather and aluminium. Fully in aluminium, however, is the three-piece set of pedals, ideal for skilful heeling and toeing, while silver metallic dial, red needle and a speedometer reading up to 300 km/h underscore the sporting impression created by this exciting Coupé that, fully equipped by HARTGE, costs exactly € 48,162.14, excluding VAT. It goes without saying that all HARTGE components can also be retrofitted individually.
That's awesome! I would love to buy this car and the Hartge package...if it was available in my market.
As caraddicted mentions it really needs to be seen in person to appreciate its looks. There is something about the proportions that makes it look rather funky and sort of cool. To me it is the most BMW-esque BMW available in the market today.
Beauty is in the eye of the beholder, but that said I find this to be an ill-proportioned beast. I saw a black 135 last week, they look just as funny as they do in pics. people thought the M coupe was funky too, and 5 people in the states actually bought one.
Actually Targa_Florio The 1-Series is built on the E46 platform so the M3 isn't that much roomier - they're the exact same size. Just so you know. Better than the Hartge upgrade is a chip available from Dinan that brings the output up to 386 BHP.
