BMW appears to be preparing a stripped-down, track-focused upgrade package for its M8 super coupe with a prototype sporting a series of extras over the standard car.
Obviously, the chrome grille has been removed, leaving a pair of unobstructed air channels leading directly to the radiator for improved cooling properties. Contrasting red paint on the interior most clearly marks this mule off the standard M8 and matches the brake calipers, air intake surrounds and tow eye covers.
There’s also a substantial rear spoiler for improved downforce over the standard car, a prominent lower splitter up front, bespoke wheel designs, and what looks like a central roof section made of fiberglass. carbon. The rear windows have given way to vented plastic items, but it’s unclear which components in the rear of the car are cooled.
There is speculation as to whether the prototype will go into production as a standalone model or if it is used to test various aftermarket additions for standard M8 competition. Either way, the added body elements suggest a power upgrade for the car’s 4.4-liter biturbo V8, which would make it BMW’s most powerful production car.
In its current most powerful competitive form, the M8 produces 616 horsepower and 553 lb-ft and can accelerate from 0 to 62 mph in just 3.2 seconds. It’s beaten in terms of outright power by the new M5 CS, which packs 626 horsepower and slashes the 0-62mph sprint time by 0.2 seconds.
BMW’s M performance division will turn 50 next year, and this car’s red and white livery (with a blue element potentially obscured by the test camouflage) suggests that it could be prepared as a commemorative anniversary model. .
More details are expected to be announced in the coming months.
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Source: www.autocar.co.uk
This notice was published: 2021-05-20 15:14:39
