TUNNING

Manhart Defender DP 500

For those enthusiasts of the British brand who can't wait for the new Land Rover Defender SVR, the Germans at Manhart have an ace up their sleeve. The modern reinterpretation of the classic British off-roader is added to the specialist's exclusive catalog of proposals for the most demanding customers, who opt for the most aggressive and sporty style, without going to extremes.

The Manhart Defender DP 500 is the sportiest bet on the Defender, presented with the fair dose of sportiness that this model deserves, with a more modern design, which has been fully respected. The bodywork has been painted in an elegant gloss black, matching the brutal forged wheels measuring no less than 24 inches in diameter, shod with tires measuring 295/30 ZR24, but for those who don't need something so extreme, they can opt for 22" wheels. inches with 295/40 ZR22 tires.

The exterior is completed with new springs and dampers that lower the height of the body from the ground by 30 mm, which is difficult to appreciate with the size of the tires. Manhart respected the interior design much more, offering customers new leather colors for the seats, which they can combine with Alcantara, interesting options such as the proposal presented with a panel in silver and black.

Based on the mechanical option of the Defender 110 P400 AWD, the tuner seriously revitalized the 6-cylinder in-line, 3.0-litre biturbo petrol engine, raising the maximum power from the 400 hp announced as standard to an imposing 512 hp. This performance is achieved through a new engine management unit and a stainless steel exhaust system, with carbon or ceramic lined pipes. A result so brutal that it also meant raising the torque from 550 Nm to 710 Nm.

The preparer has already announced that the Manhart Defender DP 500 will be an exclusive and very limited piece, as only a dozen units will be manufactured. Of course, the price is unknown, as usual, but the expert warned customers about this model, as this preparation is not for everyone. And that is not suitable for those who love to drive off the asphalt.

Autonews