We’ve not been shy about our love for the E46 3 Series with the ZHP Performance Package. We waxed poetically back in 2009 after owning one for a few years and have subsequently called it one of the best used BMWs of all time. It combined every day usability and drivability with a purity of feel and performance that is rare in even BMWs. Today BMW USA is taking the wraps off of it’s successor, the 435i ZHP Coupe. Yes, we’re smiling here at BimmerFile HQ. Clearly the enthusiasts inside BMWNA are alive and well.

Designed with the original ZHP in mind, the ZHP Coupe takes the best off the shelf BMW Performance parts, more aggressive throttle mapping and adds the provenance of 100% factory production. Nothing here is added at the port or at the dealer. It’s very much inline with the original ZHP formula that proved so successful. There’s even a bonus over the original ZHP – this version has the excellent M Performance Limited Differential as standard.

435i Coupe ZHP Edition

The only downside is the quantity. BMW is only making 100 of these special 4 Series coupes available in the US. Available with either the ZF 8 speed or a 6 speed Manual Transmission, potential buyers can have the ZHP in any color they want as long as it’s Alpine White or Black Sapphire Metallic.The ZHP will be available through selected BMW M Centers with production starting in July.

Read on for the full official details.

435i Coupe ZHP Edition

Official Release: Paying tribute to the iconic ZHP Performance Package, BMW today released details for a 2016 BMW 435i ZHP Coupe Edition. The original ZHP option code was created by BMW Individual as a performance package for the 2003-2006 E46 3 Series that included the M-Tech II body kit, a ZHP shifter knob and shifter, upgraded suspension parts and settings, a different DME and special cam shafts that raised power output to 235 hp and allowed for a higher redline. Fulfilling the desires of true enthusiasts, the package was soon referred to by its internal option package code ‘ZHP’. BMW of North America embraced the thirst for the unique BMW 435i ZHP Coupe Edition once more resulting in the unique collaboration between factory options and key elements from the exciting BMW M Performance Accessory catalogue. Only 100 of these very special cars will be offered.

The new BMW 435i ZHP Coupe Edition is not just a vehicle with improved optics and aerodynamics; it is also notably quicker with more precise handling. These components take the vehicle’s capabilities to levels that those familiar with BMW’s racing heritage can appreciate. The BMW M Performance line of accessories provides a distinctive, sporty character to further enhance driving dynamics and is the result of years of racing expertise and has been developed in close collaboration with BMW M GmbH. Each component goes through an intensive development and manufacturing process resulting in uncompromised performance. Exclusive chassis, aerodynamic, cockpit and powertrain components are found throughout the BMW 435i ZHP Coupe Edition. Key characteristics are:

• Track Handling Package, new for MY16
• BMW M Performance Limited Slip Differential (LSD)
• BMW M Performance Parts
• M Sport Package

435i Coupe ZHP Edition

Track Handling Package

Designed to increase the dynamic capabilities of the already agile BMW 435i, the Track Handling Package adds 18” Orbit Grey V-Spoke Wheels and M Sport Brakes with 4 piston fixed front and 2 piston fixed rear calipers adding to the vehicles thirst and drivers demand for speed and acceleration. Moreover, this package incorporates the Adaptive M Suspension with variable damper technology as well as Variable Sport Steering.

435i Coupe ZHP Edition

BMW M Performance Limited Slip Differential

Designed and created for BMW enthusiasts, the mechanical Limited Slip Differential provides the extra performance advantage that true performance drivers desire. This differential utilizes 3 clutch plates for a total of 30% lockup on acceleration and 9% lockup on deceleration. This lockup provides instant power to the wheel that has the greatest amount of grip to gain better traction out of tight corners. An additional benefit in low-grip situations is that both wheels get equal torque, meaning more forward driving force on roads with reduced traction. The M Performance limited slip differential optimizes the traction, and ensures more controlled and precise driving behavior at the vehicles limits of adhesion. The M Performance LSD is a true advantage while at the track or in sporty driving situations.

The advantage can be felt at the track and in everyday driving. The improved vehicle dynamics are clearly present with the LSD as more torque can be transferred to the road at any given time, allowing for quicker acceleration out of corners.
Traction is improved for any type of road condition.

The LSD integrates seamlessly with the vehicles’ DSC system.

435i Coupe ZHP Edition

BMW M Performance Engine Kit (+35 hp, up to +32 lb-ft)

The BMW 435i ZHP Edition gets an exhilarating boost in performance thanks to the new M Performance Power Kit enabling an unprecedented level of acceleration and speed. The BMW M Performance Power Kit features engine tuning software and a new M Performance Engine Air Intake system. In addition, a replacement M Performance Engine Cover and Rocker Panel Decals provide visual distinction this special edition vehicle deserves. Power and torque figures are now updated as follows:
Horsepower increased to 335hp (35hp gain).

Torque is increased to 332 lb-ft (automatic transmission, 32 ft/lb gain) and 317 lb-ft (manual transmission, 17 ft/lb gain).

Improved acceleration that drivers can feel immediately when compared to a standard 435i:

• 0.2 seconds faster than the standard 435i model from 0 mph to 60 mph.
• 0.5 seconds faster than the standard 435i model from 50 mph to 75 mph.

435i Coupe ZHP Edition

More dynamic accelerator pedal calibration in Comfort, Sport and Sport + Modes, provides an even quicker engine response.
Exhaust “burble” sound during engine overrun conditions. The M Performance Power Kit ensures an optimized engine and exhaust system sound. The exhaust “burble” is enabled in Comfort mode and amplified even further in Sport mode. As a result, the car sound amplifies ‘performance’.

Sport Display now shows increased power figures (400 hp and 400 lb-ft) to reflect increased performance.
The M Performance Rocker Panel Decals give the car a sportier look, even from the outside, providing a hint of the car’s hidden performance.

435i Coupe ZHP Edition

BMW M Performance Exhaust

The stainless-steel M performance Exhaust sheds 8.8 pounds of weight while also reducing backpressure for improved dynamic performance, producing a sound that is perfectly balanced for performance and comfort. Two stainless steel tips with a brushed finish connect to a muffler with a straight-through design.

435i Coupe ZHP Edition

BMW M Performance Aerodynamics Package

The BMW 435i ZHP Edition is also enhanced by the addition of the M Performance Aerodynamics Package. This package underlines the sporting appearance of this special edition vehicle. It comprises of the following components: A front and rear spoiler made from high-quality carbon, as well as a rear diffuser made from PUR-RIM a specially crafted high quality polymer. The dynamic elegance of the M Performance Aerodynamics package amplifies the vehicles exemplary sportiness even further. Above all it offers optimized aerodynamics and accentuates the car’s sporty driving behavior.

Made entirely from carbon fiber reinforced plastic (CFRP), the design of the front M Performance Front Carbon Fiber Splitter and rear M Performance Carbon Fiber Spoiler give the BMW 435i ZHP Edition a powerful appearance.

3 striking, embossed bars are integrated into the design of the rear M Performance Diffuser. Their pointed appearance accentuates the car’s sporty character.

The integrated expanded grille in the rear diffuser painted in matte black produces an additional motorsport feel.
M Performance Black Kidney Grilles round off this striking BMW M Performance Aerodynamic Package.

435i Coupe ZHP Edition

M Sport Package

The BMW 435i ZHP Edition incorporates the M Sport Package comprised of the front and rear Aerodynamic kit, Aluminum Hexagon Trim with a Black high-gloss accent and an M Sport steering wheel.

Only 100 BMW 435i ZHP Editions will be produced making it an exclusive option for customers in search for something truly special. Available with either a Sport Automatic 8 speed or a 6 speed Manual Transmission, the customer can choose to drive either an Alpine White or Black Sapphire Metallic BMW 435i ZHP Edition.

The ZHP will be available through selected BMW M Centers with production starting in July.

Pricing on the new BMW 435i ZHP Edition will be announced closer to the on-sale date.

BMW of North America is also able to offer many of these BMW M Performance Parts individually through a program called VIA (Vehicle Distribution Center Installed Accessory).

VIA allows buyers of new BMW or MINI vehicles to add cosmetic and performance accessories to their factory order and have them installed at the port before dealer delivery. These accessories are then fully warranted as part of the New Car Warranty, residualized in a lease or amortized into a loan, incorporating the value of accessories into the actual MSRP.