Top Wiesmann models will be fitted with twin-turbo BMW V8s

As if they weren’t already quick enough, from the beginning of 2011 Wiesmann will fit BMW’s innovative twin-turbo V8 engines to its cars, with its exhaust superchargers fitted centrally in the V of the cylinder banks. The Wiesmann GT and Roadster MF4 and MF5 can be ordered with the new engine type which is considerably more efficient and economical than their predecessors.

But that’s not what’s likely to attract customers to this news. The MF4 will now be powered by BMW’s 401 bhp 4.4-litre V8 twin turbo direct injection petrol engine – nearly 40 bhp up on today’s 362 bhp MF4 models, whilst the MF5 loses its 500 bhp 5-litre V10 engine in exchange for the very latest twin-turbo 4.4-litre engine from the X5 M / X6 M with 547 bhp.

The power increase will be noticeable, but with more than a 150 lb/ft increase in torque (for the MF5 models) we fear for the longevity of the rear tyres – it will be interesting to see how driveable the lightweight MF5 models are in the wet…

Performance for both models falls into the ‘more than enough’ category, the MF4 will accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in 4.6 seconds and reach a top speed of 181 mph. Whilst the MF5 will manage 0 to 60 mph in 3.9 seconds and a top speed of 193 mph. Definitely more than enough.

Wiesmann are understandably proud that not only is the MF5 the most powerful car they’ve ever produced, but it’s also one of the most impressive in terms of economy (relative to its performance of course!), with a combined figure of 26.4 mpg (10.7 l/100km).

The Wiesmann Roadster MF3 will keep its current engine (now with Euro 5), leaving the classic roadster untouched and perhaps the only ‘sensible’ car in the German marque’s range – but then it’s a Wiesmann so who wants’ to be sensible?