Hamann used to focus exclusively on modifying BMWs, but it then moved on to working on a much wider array of models, from the Fiat 500 to supercars such as the Mercedes SLR. Because let's face it, if there are two things that the SLR needs it's more presence and an extra dollop of performance. So welcome to the Hamann Volcano, the German tuning company's take on the Mercedes SLR that was released in 2008.
To spruce up the SLR's aesthetics, Hamann fitted 21-inch forged alloy wheels front and rear which were housed by extended wings made of carbonfibre. A new bonnet incorporated a scoop to feed the 5.4-litre V8 that sat beneath, a rear diffuser kept the car the right way up at high speeds, in tandem with a similarly ostentatious front spoiler that kept the nose planted.
Intriguingly, despite the car here sporting an, er, eye-catching rear spoiler, Hamann made no mention of this in the press release. Presumably it was an optional extra that clients were discouraged from choosing…
That supercharged 5.4-litre V8 was tickled to release a few more horses; thanks to Hamann's efforts there were 690 of them available, along with 611lb ft at 3300rpm. These combined were enough to catapult the Hamann Volcano all the way to a top speed of 218mph, despatching 0-62mph along the way in all of 3.6 seconds.
If you had any cash left over at this point, Hamann could also fettle the interior for you, by fitting carbonfibre inserts to the dashboard and centre console, aluminium pedals and posher footwell mats. And if you really wanted to go to town your Hamann Volcano could be completely retrimmed from the headlining down, in any colour of Alcantara of your choosing.
