Is it possible to build a New Beetle more impressive than the factory's Rsi (the race-bred VW that inspired the New Beetle Cup car and spec racing series)? Go for a drive in HPA's version of the formidable racer and you'll have the definitive answer of yes. HPA's New Beetle is truly a beast.
The once-stock 2003 NB 1.8T is now a far cry from its humble beginnings. HPA proprietor Marcel Horn and lead techs Darren Scharfenberg and Colin Branch shoe-horned a healthy 3.2-liter turbocharged engine and complete 4Motion drivetrain.
When fitted with HPA's Stage II Twin (hybrid K04) Turbo Package, the stock 240-bhp 3.2-liter VR6, also tweaked with twin intercoolers, boasts an estimated 310 additional hp. Yes additional. HPA's Rsi now produces upwards of 550 crank hp and 608 lb-ft of torque. This car could hold its own against the likes of Gallardo and 360 Modena.
The Stage II kit also includes dual 60mm downpipes, 75mm exhaust with bypass actuator (for higher revs), larger injectors/re-flashed O.E. ECU, proprietary-cast intake/exhaust manifolds and formed blue silicon boost pipes that round out the package. Surprisingly, all smog components remain intact and functional.
The end result is nothing short of breathtaking. With a 0-to-60 time of only 3.2 sec. and a lightning-fast 1/4-mile of 11.7 at 119.95, the HPA Rsi is able to place a Porsche GT2 in a rather embarrassing position: the rear view mirror.
"In sixth gear, the Beetle gets a verified 34.5m/g and is as quiet as a church mouse," quipped Horn. "When you drop the hammer, the exhaust note gains a new level of excitement above 4000 rpm."
It goes without saying that at these speeds the stock brakes were considered inadequate. The units were swapped with a HPA Stage II replacement package, which includes Porsche Cayenne six-piston front calipers, new 14.1 (360mm) rotors, and 12.1-in. (312mm) rears with sport pads. The new setup effectively brings the car from 60 mph to an abrupt stop in only 105 ft.
The HPA Rsi also has precision-point handling thanks to specially valved KW Variant Three coilovers.
Trimmed in factory Rsi body panels complete with bumper caps, 5.5-in. wider fenders, signature rear wing and authentic Rsi O.Z. 9x18 wheels (shod with Dunlop 255/35-18 Sport race tires), visually the New Beetle is a slamdunk twin version of the original, albeit with twice the power (the factory Rsi is rated at 204 bhp).
A pair of Recaro fully adjustable buckets and a genuine Rsi gauge cluster reside in the otherwise stock interior, which is complete with air and all the standard safety equipment.
Can a New Beetle get any better or faster? Doubtful. At least until HPA's next project hits the street with a reported 600 bhp.