One can’t deny the
attraction of M Division’s creations. However, after the launch of the M
Performance series, models like the M550i can be
seen as a great, and more affordable, substitute for the range-topping M5 for
99 percent of the time.
The twin-turbo
4.4-liter V8 develops 462 PS and 650 Nm of torque
straight from the factory, and even though it’s a far cry from the M5’s output,
it allows the M550i to rocket to 100 km/h in just 4.0 seconds.
G-Power decided to
close that gap, and has taken to upgrading the car with a reprogrammed ECU,
which costs € 2,127 (US$ 2,450) in Germany. Thus, the M550i is now good for 600 PS and 810 Nm of torque. The power figure is
identical to that of the all-new BMW M5, whereas the torque number is up by 60
Nm.
The tuner claims
that naught to 100 km/h takes only 3.2 seconds, 0.2 seconds quicker
than the full-blown M car, while for an extra € 774 (US$ 891), top speed can also
be increased to more than 320 km/h.
A more modest
alternative to the so-called Performance Software V2 is the V1 version, priced
from € 1,624 (US$ 1,870), which allows the engine to generate 550 PS and 780 Nm of torque.
G-Power is also
offering a set of stainless steel downpipes, with sports catalytic converters,
for € 4,593 (US$ 5,290), and a set of double-spoke Hurricane RR wheels that measure
9×21 inches at the front and 10.5×21 inches at the rear and are shod in 255/30
and 305/25 tires respectively.
