Under the hood, Hamann remapped the ECU to coax an extra 75 hp to bring power up to 700 hp and bumped torque up from 575 lb-ft to 612 lb-ft. They also replaced the stock mufflers with a pair of three-pipe units that protrude just behind the front wheels, instead of the twin pipes on the standard car. The soundtrack from the pipes dominates the experience of being in the car, as they’re so close to your ears. Upon start-up, the exhaust emits a snarl and as the revs build, it sounds like a rabid dog straining at the end of its chain, eager to pounce.
As it uses a five-speed autobox and has a seemingly endless supply of torque, it gives the impression of having long legs. It doesn’t take much throttle to get the car into its stride, and large swaths of roadway are gobbled up between gearshifts. With the big 21-inch wheels and tires and retuned suspension settings, the ride is firm and its reflexes quick.
Being that this was a car that was going to be shipped off in a few days, seat time was limited. There was, however, no doubt that Hamann created a monster that could instill the kind of respect the standard car sought. Back-to-back comparisons haven’t been done between the stock SLR and the Volcano but it’s safe to say that Hamann’s Volcano is the sharper of the two. And being that there’ll only be--at most--15 built, exclusivity is ensured.
Hamann Volcano
Layout
Longitudinal front-mid engine, rear drive, two-door coupe
Engine
5.4-liter V8, sohc, 24-valve, supercharged, modified ECU, Hamann 6-pipe Sports mufflers, carbon-fiber air intake cover
Transmission
5-speed automatic
Suspension
Double wishbone A-arms, coil springs, tube shocks, high-mounted antiroll bar, (f). Double wishbone A-arm, coil springs, tube shocks, (r)
Brakes
14.6-in. vented discs (f), 14.2-in. vented discs (r), ABS
Wheels and Tires
9x21 (f), 12.5x21 (r) 255/30ZR (f), 345/25ZR (r)
Exterior
Carbon-fiber front spoiler, fender flares, side skirts, inner wheelhouse liners, C-pillar, roof scoop, trunk lid, rear wing and rear diffuser.
Interior
Eleven-piece naked carbon-fiber instrument panel, center console and air vent covers. Leather/Alcantara headliner, A-, B- and C-pillars, sunshade, Hamann Sports steering wheel. Headrest with Hamann logo, carbon-fiber door sill trim, Hamann aluminum pedal and foot rest.
Performance
Peak Power: 700 hp @ 6600 rpm
Peak Torque: 612 lb-ft @ 3300 rpm
0-62 mph: 3.6 sec.
Top Speed: 216 mph