I think "Asphalttemprature" for RS3 was 29C vs 19C for M135 just to give an idea how much difference testing in summer vs winter makes. On the other hand the colder temperature probably helped M135 make more power - maybe why it was dynoed at 340HP..
I'm certain the laptime could be better if it was warmer. Those Supersport are pretty sticky when its warm. But Im not complaining, I would never be this quick if I had a M135i because my driving skill isnt even close to HvS
It's a catch 22, cooler temperatures make more power thus better pick up out of corners and better acceleration but a little less traction so longer braking distances and slower corner speeds. The question is how much is the temperatures effecting its time?
Did anyone else notice the Astra OPC having 20 percent more torque than claimed? 482 Nm is an awful lot for a 2.0 litre engine.
Impressive time but I think it makes the time achieved by Horst in the old 335i coupe of 8.26 even more impressive considering that car was on 225/45/17 run flats compared to the much more aggressive Super Sport setup on the M135i not to mention the extra power the M135i has also.
Dede, thanks for sharing the articles! SportAuto is one my favourite mags, unfortunately no shipment to Australia.. I think one of the reasons the M135 is a little 'slow' on the Nshleiffe could be due to the manual gearbox. I own the 8speeder, and I guarantee, no human - not even HvS - can change a gear that fast! I reckon he'd shave off another 3-4 seconds if he tries again..
