Racing Dynamics Z8 R50S

The Racing Dynamics Z8 R50S is an upgrade from the production BMW Z8 (E52 body). The main part of the alterations fell on the engine.

Engine

To upgrade the BMW S62B50 engine (the same one was installed on the BMW M5 E39), the following kits were offered to choose from:

• performance kit R50s – modification of the engine management software: changing the speed limit, the amount and time of fuel injection, increasing the maximum speed limit stored in the serial control unit;
• improved performance with four special camshafts;
• "RS" sports exhaust manifold kit, "RS" metal-based sports catalysts;
• replacement of standard plastic inlet funnels;
• sports rear muffler set (left/right), entirely made of stainless steel, with larger pipe cross-section, optimized flow pattern and reduced exhaust back pressure.

As a result of all upgrades, engine power increased from 394 hp. up to 515 hp as a result, the dynamics of the car improved – the maximum speed increased to 309 kph, and acceleration to hundreds was reduced from 4.7 to 4.4 s.

Transmission

The following elements were proposed for the modernization of the vehicle transmission:

• the "RS" sports clutch, which made a significant contribution to the outstanding acceleration values thanks to the higher transmission torque and significantly lower mass moments of inertia. The combination of a lighter, reinforced clutch pressure plate and a special clutch plate with organic sports friction linings resulted in an increase in transmitted torque of up to 40%. It was especially recommended for frequent use on test and racing tracks.
• high-quality lockable rear axle differential with variable locking effect from 0 to 80% using patented ATB (Automatic Torque Biasing) technology;
• shortening the shift lever travel by up to 35%, which was especially important when driving on test and racing tracks, but the required effort when shifting gears increased.

Chassis

The following kits were offered to upgrade the suspension:

• 3 types of ultra-light spacers made of high-strength aluminum-magnesium alloy for widening the vehicle track on the front and rear axles with corrosion protection;
• a special set of reinforced adjustable anti-roll bars;
• set of lowered springs by 25 mm.

To replace the standard 18-inch rims, there were three options for 245/35 R20 tires at the front and 275/30 R20 at the rear:

• ultra-light one-piece RC-8F forged wheels with a full high gloss polished surface thanks to a clear lacquer with ceramic particles using nanotechnology;
• artificially aged one-piece alloy wheels RD-2 with glossy silver finish;
• 3-piece ultralight RS-2F UltraLight forged wheels with a full high gloss polished finish thanks to a clear lacquer with nanotech ceramic particles.

Brake system

The brake system could also be upgraded with one of two options (Version 1 on the front axle, Version 2 on both axles), which included two-piece slotted brake discs with decoupled brake discs, as well as special 8-piston fixed aluminum brakes. weight-optimized monobloc calipers and special brake pads with increased friction surface to prevent overheating. The system was complemented by flexible steel brake hoses, which, in combination with the BMW ABS system, ensured a constant pedal feel even at maximum load.

Exterior

To improve the appearance, the following kits were offered to choose from:

• front spoiler lip to increase downforce on the front axle at high speeds;
• rear skirt trim with integrated diffuser and cut-outs for two tailpipes of the sports exhaust system;
• exclusive sport rear muffler set (left/right) with embossed Racing Dynamics lettering;
• roadster roll bar kit in polished lightweight stainless steel as a replacement for the standard roll bars.

Interior

The changes inside were even less noticeable than outside. The following options were offered to choose from:

• a set of soft velor floor mats with an embroidered Racing Dynamics crest;
• a similar velor trunk mat with a similar coat of arms;
• aluminum shift knob with integrated crest;
• aluminum parking brake handle with engraved letters;
• a set of aluminum anodized (black or blue) pedals with a stand under the left foot for a manual transmission;
• speedometer with extended scale value up to 340 kph with Racing Dynamics inscription;
• changing the colors of dials and instrument indicators.

Sources