Manhart MH1 350 Brings The BMW 1-Series Well Into The Hot Hatch Game

BMW decided not to offer a full-blown M model for the third-generation 1-Series (F40), leaving the 128ti and the M135i xDrive as the only sporty models in their hatchback range. With a lot of available hot hatches well above the 300 hp mark, Manhart gave an extra boost to the most potent 1-Series courtesy of their MH1 350 tuning package.

Starting with the engine, the turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder is good for 302 hp (225 kW / 306 PS) and 450 Nm (332 lb-ft) of torque right out of the factory. Thanks to the MHtronic auxiliary control unit and ARMAspeed’s carbon intake, it now produces a more impressive 345 hp (257 kW / 350 PS) and 524 Nm (387 lb-ft) of torque. Power is sent to all four wheels through an eight-speed automatic gearbox and BMW’s xDrive system.

This might not reach the levels of the Mercedes-AMG A45 S and Audi RS 3 Sportback hyper-hatches, but at least it makes the BMW more powerful than the VW Golf R, as well as giving it a head start over the rival Mercedes-AMG A35 and Audi S3 Sportback.

See Also: Fancy A Bit More Power For Your BMW M135i? Dahler Has A Solution

Chassis upgrades include the new set of 20-inch Manhart GTS Style rims shod in 235/30ZR20 tires, lowered suspension with H&R springs bringing the 1-Series closer to the ground by 30 mm (1.2 inches), and optionally available stronger brakes.

Besides the flashy rims, the MH1 350 is visually distinguished by a new bodykit by Maxton Design. This includes a front splitter, aerodynamic side skirts with integrated fins, a double roof spoiler, and a rear diffuser. The sporty appearance is accentuated by the optional Manhart decals adding silver and red accents around the bodywork.

At the back, we find quad exhaust pipes finished in matt black with a diameter of 90 mm. Those are connected to Manhart’s Sport downpipe with a 300-cell HJS catalytic converter and optional OPF deleter (not TUV-approved, thus only available for export markets outside Germany) providing the entry-level BMW M model with a richer sound.

Browsing through Manhart’s e-shop, we found prices for the individual components. The front splitter will set you back €169 ($187), the side skirts €169 ($187), the rear spoiler €129 ($143), the rear diffuser €179 ($199), the sports exhaust €2,085 ($2,314) the OPF deleter €215 ($239), and the MHtronic module €1,760 ($1,954), while you have to add a couple of grand more for the wheels and the lowered suspension.