Project Car Showcase: ECS Tuning's MK7 GTI "Racewagen"

For the 2021 racing season, ECS Tuning decided to transform their MK7 GTI shop car, famed for its cross-country endeavors throughout South America, into a full-on track weapon. Their goal was to build a competent, yet approachable GTI to compete in NASA-sanctioned racing events throughout the season. When ECS Tuning initially reached out to us about their Racewagen project, we knew it would be a perfect candidate for a set of our VW SM-10 wheels that we developed specifically for the MK7 chassis.

Outfitted with a set of Satin Black 18×8.5” ET43 SM-10s wrapped in 235/40-18 Hankook Ventus V12 Evo tires at all four corners, the Racewagen looks just as good as it performs on track. With a 5×112 bolt pattern and a 57.1mm center bore, our VW SM-10s provided a complete bolt-on fitment without the need for spacers or centering rings. Considering these wheels are fully compatible with the OEM ball-seat lug bolts, aftermarket wheel hardware was not required. However, ECS decided to do a ball-seat stud conversion to make wheel installation easier at the track, which sits perfectly in the lug recesses of the SM-10s.

Along with the wheels and tires, the Racewagen is also kitted out with a larger IS38 turbo, additional cooling hardware, and upgraded braking and suspension components to give it the edge it needs out on track. You can find the full build list for the Racewagen project over on ECS Tuning’s website via the following link: Racewagen Build List

To learn more about ECS Tuning’s Racewagen project, you can head over to their Youtube channel where they have a video series covering the build process, as well as the track events they participated in during the 2021 season. ECS Tuning’s Racewagen Youtube Series

Photo credits: @h_kmiller and @ecstuning on Instagram

Geirsen K.

Geirsen (pronounced “gear-sen”) has been a Product Expert at APEX Wheels for more than four years, specializing in VW/Audi and BMW wheel fitments. Prior to joining APEX, he worked for five years in various roles at a BMW dealership, including detailing, service, and BMW Genius. During this time he participated in multiple, corporate training classes in the technical and motorsport aspects of new BMW models. The first car he ever purchased, at the ripe old age of 17, was an E46 325i sedan. That car introduced him to the automotive enthusiast world and instilled a passion for driving that has continued to grow ever since. More recent rides include a Z4M coupe and a 2011 335i, both of which allowed him to further expand his driving skills at HPDEs. Fun Fact: After picking up a Tacoma in his home state of Washington, Geirsen now tows his boat to the river more often than he tows a car to the track.

Have questions about wheels for your VW/Audi, or BMW? Use our contact form and ask for Geirsen.