The BMW has a Tesla powertrain.
The Ford Mustang is a menace at the drag strip, but a new video from Carwow demonstrates how new tech in an old package can keep up. Its latest drag racing video pits a tuned Ford Mustang GT against an all-electric BMW 3.0 CSL replica.
You might be tempted to think that this BMW is the famous 3.0 CSL. After all, it does look like one. But it’s not, as what we’re dealing with here is a replica, with electric power.
Dressed in orange, featuring a few styling tweaks here and there, and boasting a bit more power than stock, it has 490 hp and 530 Nm (391 lb-ft) available via the right pedal, or so it is said anyway.
The automaker’s naturally aspirated 5.0-liter V8 powers the Ford Mustang, but it’s been tuned by Clive Sutton. Instead of the usual 450 horsepower (335 kilowatts), the engine now makes 490 hp (365 kW). The torque remains unchanged at 390 pound-feet (530 Newton-meters).
The extra power comes from a new intake, a new exhaust, and an updated ECU. Ford sends the car’s power to the rear wheels through a 10-speed automatic gearbox.
Built as an unofficial homage to the iconic Batmobile, it features full Tesla power and an 85 kWh battery pack. Normally, it would’ve been good for around 450 hp and 400 Nm (295 lb-ft) of torque, but it has been dialed back to some 300-350 hp. The owner estimates that it tips the scales at approximately 1,500 kg (3,307 lbs), which is a bit less than its ad-hoc rival, a Ford Mustang GT.
The BMW isn’t your typical classic. The car features a Tesla-sourced powertrain, with the 3.0 CSL replica packing a Tesla Large Drive Unit and a Tesla battery pack. The drive unit is capable of making around 450 hp and 295 lb-ft (400 Nm) of torque. However, Electric Classic Cars had to de-tune its output because the car would only fit certain-sized rear tires, so the car delivers about 300-350 hp (223-260 kW).
The BMW and Ford first compete in a pair of drag races. The BMW wins both, with the Mustang losing by half a car length in the second race. However, the BMW was able to keep the Mustang behind, crossing the finish line in 12.7 seconds. The Ford was right behind it with its 12.8-second time. Moto1.com
