It has 350 horsepower, red stripes and enough black paint that it can block out the sun.
Entry-level has a slightly different meaning in the world of BMW. This level is not possible in the larger than life Manhart world. This is technically a BMW 1 Series, and it’s the smallest. This sinister hot hatchback entry level is what we call it. It would likely kick your butt, raid your fridge, and then run off with your partner. That’s it.
The Manhart MH1 350 is what we have. This is a BMW M135ixDrive, which has 306 horsepower (228kilowatts) and a turbocharged 2.0L four-cylinder engine. German tuning company, Tuning GmbH, adds a carbon intake and an exhaust upgrade to improve breathing. The new control unit brings the system together and produces 350 horsepower (261 kW) in comparison to the four-pot’s overpowered performance.
H&R Springs adds an extra 1.1-inch suspension drop. The 20-inch Manhart GTS wheels are fitted with 235/30-series tires that grip the ground and work well with the stock xDrive all wheel-drive system. Buyers may request a brake upgrade to complete the mechanical enhancements offered by Manhart.
The visual side, there is a body kit. It’s Manhart, after all. The MH1 350 includes a large rear diffuser and prominent front spoiler. Side skirts are located between the front and rear bumpers to enhance the 1 Series’ low profile. The hot hatchback look is completed by a roof spoiler. Everything – and we mean everything– gets a healthy coating of gloss black.
The wheel inserts, grille, mirrors and almost all trims are covered in darkness, including the exhaust finishers. The profile view shows the contrast of the dark gray side stripes and the thin red pinstripe. The stripe combo is offset on the hood. The front fascia has silver trim. Manhart’s badge is just above the grille, which stands out in a sea of black. The interior remains untouched, except for special floormats.
Manhart does not offer pricing information for the MH1 350. It is also not available in the States, as we do not have the 1 Series. This could be the hot hatchback you’ve been looking for, for those across the pond.