The new X5 from HARTGE: Sporty Elegance
Extremely elegant – but not extravagant – that’s the new outfit for the X5 xDrive35d from HARTGE. All exterior components are characterised by clear lines. Thus, the front spoiler, the diffuser-like rear skirt and the two-part side sills in PUR-RIM form a harmonious ensemble that, naturally, comes with a ABE homologation (Allgemeine Betriebserlaubnis – ABE).Thanks to the HARTGE sports spring set with level control system for the rear axle, which lowers the vehicle by up to 30 mm, the X5 does not look like a SUV. This impression is underscored by the set of ‘BRILLANT CLASSIC 2′ wheels. These 22 inch rims for ultra-wide tyres – 295/30 ZR 22 at the front and 335/25 ZR 22 at the rear – are the ideal match for the sporting four-wheel drive car with appropriate
HARTGE emblems. Details such as carbon casings for exterior mirrors and stainless steel tail pieces with oval tail pipes that can be connected to the standard exhaust system underscore the sporting nature of the car.
This is based on a 3-litre diesel engine producing 328 hp (241 kW) at 4400 rpm. With such a forceful power plant, the X5 xDrive35d from HARTGE needs only 6.1 seconds for the standing start to 100 km/h, i.e., significantly faster than the series X5, which takes seven seconds. The extra power is also reflected by a higher top speed, which rises from 235 to 244 km/h.
Weighing 2.2 tonnes, the interior of the X5 xDrive35d from HARTGE is also distinguished by a range of sporting accessories: 3-spoke leather steering wheel with carbon inserts, which also grace the dashboard, a variety of interior and decorative strips and a transmission console made of this high-tech compound. With a silver metallic dial and red needle, the 300 km/h speedometer is a great eye-catcher.
Moreover, with aluminium pedals and foot rest coupled with black velour foot mats, even the footwell has that sporting touch that characterises not only the X5 Beau from Beckingen in Germany’s Saarland region but all HARTGE automobiles. And this is hardly surprising because Herbert Hartge, a successful ex-racing driver, brought the spirit of motorsport with him into the company. All parts are, of course, suitable for retro-fitting.
As a complete vehicle, this exclusive X5 costs a total of € 87,277.47 (including 19% VAT).
Author: Horatiu B.
Source: http://www.bmwblog.com/2009/10/24/hartg ... -to-328hp/