Engine Swap Magic: Building a BMW i8 with a Twin-turbo S63 V8

Are you a BMW aficionado with a penchant for speed and innovation? Buckle up, because Gabura Racing Technologies (GRT) in Munich, Germany, is turning the sophisticated BMW i8 into a heart-racing supercar named the GRT V8i. This isn't just any modification; it's a revamp that promises to stir the souls of BMW enthusiasts worldwide.

Unlike some reports you might have seen, the beast under the hood of the GRT V8i isn't sourced from Alpina. Instead, GRT is harnessing the raw power of the twin-turbo V8 from the iconic BMW M5/M6. This mix-up was due to a simultaneous project at GRT, but rest assured, the engine in question here is the formidable 4.4 L S63B44T0 V8. This powerhouse is a motorsport-enhanced version of the N63, featuring two twin-scroll turbochargers and a pulse-tuned cross-engine exhaust manifold that screams performance.

Originally, the i8 arrived with a modest 1.5 L turbocharged three-cylinder engine paired with an electric motor, creating a hybrid 4WD system. However, in their quest to craft a pure racing machine, GRT is ditching the hybrid setup for a fuel-driven, rear-wheel drive (RWD) configuration. The S63 engine will be upgraded with a dry sump lubrication system to facilitate a lower placement in the chassis, enhancing the car's center of gravity and overall handling. Due to spatial constraints, the engine installation has moved to the front, straying from the i8's original rear placement.

Gearheads will be thrilled to hear that the GRT V8i is paired with a six-speed sequential racing transaxle, ensuring that this machine doesn’t just run; it flies on the racetrack.

Categories Involved in the GRT V8i Modification:

Engine Swap: Incorporating the S63 V8 engine for maximum performance.

Drivetrain Modification: Switching from hybrid 4WD to a purely RWD setup.

Transmission Upgrade: Implementing a six-speed sequential racing transaxle for sharper gear shifts.

Chassis Engineering: Modifying the vehicle structure to accommodate front engine placement.

Performance Enhancement: Upgrading with a dry sump lubrication system and optimizing the engine for racing.

For fans of BMW and motorsport innovations, the GRT V8i project is a thrilling development that merges high-octane engineering with the undeniable allure of a BMW supercar. Stay tuned for more updates as this project speeds ahead!

Source: Jalopnic