Scirocco Bi-motor
360/4
Following on from the experimental 'Twin-Jet' Jetta, VW created the Bi-Motor Scirocco 360/4. The first prototype from 1983 was built by VW Motorsport. It featured two 1.8 litre four cylinder engines that were tuned to produce 180 bhp each. These were mated to manual 5-speed gearboxes that transmitted power to all four wheels. Total power out put was 360 bhp from what could be considered a 3.6 litre 8 cylinder vehicle. The Scirocco 360/4 (360bhp/4wd) was capable of going from 0-60mph in 4.5 seconds and reaching a potential top speed of 180 mph. This must be the ultimate incarnation of the Mk2 Scirocco.
Special bodywork was created to accommodate the wide 15" Centra Type 6 alloy wheels. The car had U.S. style headlights, probably because it was based on an early Mk2 Scirocco GTI.
An interesting rear view of the 360/4 showing extra air intakes for cooling an breathing. Note also the twin exhausts that exit the car through the rear valance. The car originally carried 'Volkswagen' and 'Scirocco GTI' badges on the tailgate.
Due to the rear engine, the fuel tank and filler neck had to be re-located. The original filler flap was used as an intake for the induction system. There is also an underside deflector plate, visible forwards of the wheel.
On test in the UK for 'Motor' magazine.
Interior access panel to the rear engine.
A special instrument cluster was used that had a rev counter for each engine and a central LED speedometer. The gauges in the centre console are again doubled for each engine.
The 360/4 gained extra gauges later in its development. The slide control, located where the radio would normally be, controls the front-to-rear engine power output split.
The silver knobs to the left of the slider pneumatically disengage the front or rear gear linkages allowing for front wheel drive, rear wheel drive or four wheel drive.
At the top left of the pic you can see two rocker switches. These activate separate ignition circuits for each engine, allowing them to be started individually with the standard ignition key.
Underside views. On the left you can clearly see the custom made rear suspension .
The Centra Type 6 alloys had VW Motorsport logos on the centres.
The 360/4 in now back on display in the Wolfsburg museum (photo December 2007).
Click on the thumbnails above for a detailed cutaway pic, magazine features and advert.
For more information on the 360/4 Bi-motor Scirocco go to driversfound.com and typ53.com . These are both highly recommended Scirocco sites.
Very special thanks to Chris Gaskell and Doug C for sending me the 360/4 photos.