Imagine the adrenaline rush when rocketing 0 to 100 mph in only 7 sec. and pulling a hefty 4.5g in the process. That's what "Superman, The Escape" at Six Flags theme park offers those who dare experience the mind-numbing ride. Thrill-seeking performance enthusiasts can find a similar rush while strapped behind the wheel of this Speedware Motorsports-built 1999 BMW M3.
Owned by Pete Stoppani of Redmond, Wash., the E36-chassis M3 sprints from 0 to 60 mph in only 4.6 sec. It also corners as if on rails and stops with equivalent force and precision.
With help from a Dinan Stage 2 supercharger, the 3.2-liter six possesses an impressive 360 bhp and 310 lb-ft of torque. The exhaust note, also utilizing Dinan hardware, is pure performance.
H&R Sport springs and Koni adjustable shocks replace the stock suspension, as do Dinan anti-sway bars and Speedware adjustable rear trailing arms.
A complete Brembo brake package, including stainless lines and Brembo slotted rotors, provide track-proven performance. Each fender is flanked with Kinesis wheels running 8.5x17 front and 9x17 rear, and Toyo RAI 255/40 tires round out the running gear.
The bold red exterior has been tastefully trimmed while maintaining the car's inherent design quality.
Since logging plenty of track time, the cabin received an abundance of safety equipment, including a full Speedware rollcage, Sparco Evo 2 race seats and Sparco harnesses. Speedware seat and harness hardware was also used throughout.
All the important engine monitoring equipment was installed, including gauges for engine boost, EGT, oil and water temp.
Founded in 1994, Speedware Motorsports has built a strong reputation based squarely on its quality, race-proven product lines and penchant for building impressive road and track cars. Its motorsport involvement spans many forms of racing, including CART and Formula One, primarily supplying safety equipment such as its line of rollcages, race seatback brackets, seat mounting plates and belt harness bars.
More than just a manufacturer, Speedware's facility offers a full range of motorsport needs, including a spacious retail store and showroom and an impressive 4,000-sq-ft multifaceted speed shop.