While the M-brand of cars at BMW may sweep headlines with their massive power outputs and incredible performance, there are still a great deal of other cars in the Bavarian automakers lineup that are still fun and exciting. One of those cars is the BMW M135i (F20). The new second generation sports car may not have the same tools as the BMW 1 Series M Coupe that preceded it, but one aftermarket tuning company in German is looking to change that. The team at Tuningwerk decided that they wanted to give the new M135i a great deal of performance through a new upgrade program. They installed new engine modifications, special chassis upgrades, lightweight forged COR Wheels, and a couple of interior goodies to make it fast, dynamic, and powerful.
Not a great deal of attention was paid to the exterior of the car as the main focus was beneath the sheetmetal. Here, the team wanted to make the BMW M135i more of a shower than a looker.
The team first got to work on the sports cars drivetrain. The turbocharged inline-six cylinder engine with over 300 horsepower stock was modified with the goal of putting over 400 horsepower to each of the rear COR Wheels. To achieve this, Tuningwerks engineers installed a new turbocharger to generate more boost along with a larger downpipe and 200 cell catalytic converter to reduce backpressure as much as possible. To help keep temperatures regulated, the team also installed a new intercooler and water cooler. A cold air intake also helps keep cool air flowing. The final step was a new ECU tune that ensured everything worked in harmony. In the end, a total of 444 horsepower is created by the engine.
Parts of the drivetrain were also modified in an effort to provide maximum performance. The six-speed manual transmission was outfitted with a lightweight clutch while a new two- or single-mass flywheel can be installed that weighs considerably less than the factory components. Helping keep the rear COR Wheels from losing grip is a limited-slip differential.
To improve handling and dynamics on the BMW M135i, the Tuningwerk team installed a new KW suspension with three different adjustable variables for the perfect setup for a given situation. The brakes were upgraded to new OEM M Performance calipers with Tuningwerk race pads and lines. New COR Wheels made from forged aluminum alloy were also installed in an 18-inch diameter as well.
Inside, the Tuningwerk team outfitted the cabin with new racing seats and a welded roll cage for protection.
