Autoblog

AC Schnitzer rocks a matte blue hue with the ACS5 Sport

Drew Phillips — Wed, 07 Mar 2012 18:41:00 EST

Filed under: Aftermarket, Sedan, Performance, Geneva Motor Show, BMW

The new 2012 BMW M5 produces an impressive 560 horsepower and 502 pound-feet of torque, but for companies like AC Schnitzer, the 4.4-liter twin-turbo V8 presents only a starting point. The German tuning company unveiled the new ACS5 Sport here at the Geneva Motor Show this week, managing to squeeze and additional 60 hp and 81 lb-ft from the forced-induction motor.

The ASC5 Sport isn't all about horsepower, though. AC Schnitzer has also fitted the Bimmer with a new sport suspension system, 21-inch Type IV forged wheels and a slick aerodynamic kit including a carbon fiber front spoiler, chrome front grille, rear spoiler and a carbon fiber diffuser. The exterior is finished off with an attractive matte blue paint. Inside, the car features trim and stitching to match the exterior. You can see the AC Schnitzer ACS5 Sport in detail in the high-res gallery above.

AC Schnitzer rocks a matte blue hue with the ACS5 Sport originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 07 Mar 2012 18:41:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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AC Schnitzer turns its attention on to the BMW 1M, 6 Series

Jeff Glucker — Fri, 09 Sep 2011 14:32:00 EST

Filed under: Aftermarket, Convertible, Coupe, Performance, BMW

The BMW 1 Series M Coupe is a limited-edition German sports car that has us considering a raid upon our 401(k). We'd also happily supply our significant others with the BMW 650i convertible. One day, however, we would wind up at a stoplight night to a couple with more money who opted for the AC Schnitzer-tuned versions of both, and our smiles would give way to frowns that lacked sufficient funds to retire.

AC Schnitzer has applied its wrenches to both the 1M and the 6 Series droptop with dramatic results. The compact coupe sees its power jump from 340 horses up to an even 400, while the convertible climbs from 407 horsepower up to 540. Both vehicles feature upgraded brake and suspension packages to help handle the increased go-force, and a host of aero tweaks have been thrown in for good measure.

Inside the cabins of each car, AC Schnitzer has applied its own touches to the seats, steering wheel, pedals and other areas that require constant contact. Alcantara and aluminum are called upon in great measure, and the materials dominate the purpose-driven cabins.

Check out both cars in their respective galleries, then hop over the jump for full specs on each vehicle.

Continue reading AC Schnitzer turns its attention on to the BMW 1M, 6 Series

AC Schnitzer turns its attention on to the BMW 1M, 6 Series originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 09 Sep 2011 14:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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AC Schnitzer's take on 2012 BMW X3 includes amusing 'crash test' [w/video]

Jeff Glucker — Thu, 30 Jun 2011 19:25:00 EST

Filed under: Aftermarket, Videos, Crossover, BMW

AC Schnitzer BMW X3 - Click above for high-res image gallery.

If you're one of the tens of people eagerly awaiting the arrival of the BMW X3 M, there may be an alternative that's ready to go right away. AC Schnitzer has gotten hold of the X3 and applied its custom touches to the compact crossover. A body kit, wheels, rear spoiler and custom exhaust help the up-fitted fat wagon stand out in the crossover sea of similarity. AC Schnitzer's engine gurus have also bumped power from 184 horsepower up to 218. That's for the 20d, and an upgrade for the 30d is also in the works.

AC Schnitzer has taken an extra step with this particular X3. Rather than wait for a spoiled teenager to pilot the front end into tree, AC Schnitzer has subjected the car to a series of "crash tests." Click past the jump to watch a cylindrical projectile repeatedly fired at the nose of this X3, and turn up the speakers to enjoy some How It's Made-grade background music.

Continue reading AC Schnitzer's take on 2012 BMW X3 includes amusing 'crash test' [w/video]

AC Schnitzer's take on 2012 BMW X3 includes amusing 'crash test' [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 30 Jun 2011 19:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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AC Schnitzer stakes claim to world's fastest Mini [w/video]

Aaron Richardson — Mon, 20 Jun 2011 17:00:00 EST

Filed under: Aftermarket, Performance, Europe, Videos, Hatchback, Mini

2011 AC Schnitzer Mini Eagle - Click above for high-res image gallery

Aachen, Germany-based AC Schnitzer claims its Eagle, a hotted-up Mini based on the John Cooper Works edition hot hatch, is the fastest Mini ever. Packing 260 horsepower into a shell that has shed nearly 200 pounds, we're inclined to believe them.

The Schnitzer Eagle backs up its on-paper claims with a 1:13 blast around the Hockenheimring GP circuit. To hear Schnitzer tell it, it took the likes of a supercharged M3 and offerings from AMG to best that time.

With 260 supercharged horses on tap and wheels at each extreme corner, this thing looks like an absolute riot. Check out a video of the AC Schnitzer Eagle in action after the jump.

Continue reading AC Schnitzer stakes claim to world's fastest Mini [w/video]

AC Schnitzer stakes claim to world's fastest Mini [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 20 Jun 2011 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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BMW announces three two-car teams for 2012 DTM series

Noah Joseph — Wed, 16 Mar 2011 09:58:00 EST

Filed under: Motorsports, Europe, BMW

Touring car racing fans are eagerly anticipating the return of BMW to the DTM series. The Bavarian automaker last competed in DTM (or its progenitors, anyway) a whopping 18 years ago, but late last year announced it would return to the German touring car series in 2012. Now it has revealed the means to that end.

Rather than field its own entries, BMW will be supplying the vehicles and factory support for three independent teams: BMW Team RBM, BMW Team Schnitzer and Reinhold Motorsport GmbH. Both RBM and Schnitzer have a longstanding relationship with BMW Motorsport, while Reinhold is a completely new outfit. Each of the teams will be fielding two of the new M3 DTMs that are currently under development.

The move to DTM comes on the back of some big shakeups in BMW's racing program. Although it pulled out of Formula One two years ago, and eliminated its works World Touring Car Championship effort at the end of last year, it has recently pitched the Mini division into the WRC with Prodrive and launched the DTM program to pick up where it left off in the WTCC. Follow the jump for the official announcement, along with three additional press releases - one from each of BMW's partner teams - for the true tin-top fanatics among us.

[Source: BMW Motorsport]

Continue reading BMW announces three two-car teams for 2012 DTM series

BMW announces three two-car teams for 2012 DTM series originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 16 Mar 2011 09:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Geneva 2011: AC Schnitzer comes strong with sporty diesel BMW Z4, tuned 550i [w/videos]

Aaron Richardson — Thu, 03 Mar 2011 14:01:00 EST

Filed under: Aftermarket, Concept Cars, Convertible, Sedan, Performance, Geneva Motor Show, Europe, BMW, Specialty, Diesel

2011 AC Schnitzer 99d - Click above for high-res image gallery

AC Schnitzer has showed up at the Geneva Motor Show with not one, but two fresh-off-the-press upgrade packages for 2011.

Not wanting to look completely unfriendly to Mother Earth, AC Schnitzer has taken their expertise to the Z4 and BMW's EfficientDynamics system, working over a 320d mill to go under the Z4's hood. The 2011 AC Schnitzer 99d gets a 70-hp boost to 190, hits 60 in 6.9 seconds, releases a scant 99g of C02 per mile and returns a handsome 63 mpg in the European cycle. That, according to Schnitzer, is better than any BMW on the market. Unfortunately, the 99d is just a concept, and won't be available to the public any time soon.

For the family minded executives attending the show, AC Schnitzer started with the 2011 BMW 550i, bumping the car from 407 to 540 horsepower. According to Schnitzer, the result is a 4.5-second 0-60 sprint and a whopping 198 mph top end. The engine exhales through a new set of the tuner's own mufflers capped with chrome surrounds. The resulting executive express has been dubbed the ACS5 Sport S.

Hauling all that energy to a stop is a revised set of brakes sporting eight-piston calipers. Outside, Schnitzer went all-out to ensure that the car would be stable at its newfound velocity. The laundry list of exterior mods includes a front spoiler, carbon ducts for the brakes, new engine bay vents and, of course, your choice of 20 or 21-inch AC Schnitzer custom wheels.

Check out the official videos and press releases after the jump.

Gallery: AC Schnitzer 99d: Geneva 2011

Gallery: AC Schnitzer ACS5 Sport S: Geneva 2011

Photos copyright (C)2011 Drew Phillips / AOL

[Source: AC Schnitzer]

Continue reading Geneva 2011: AC Schnitzer comes strong with sporty diesel BMW Z4, tuned 550i [w/videos]

Geneva 2011: AC Schnitzer comes strong with sporty diesel BMW Z4, tuned 550i [w/videos] originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 03 Mar 2011 14:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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AC Schnitzer tunes up BMW's latest 5 Series Touring [w/video]

Jonathon Ramsey — Thu, 02 Dec 2010 14:01:00 EST

Filed under: Aftermarket, Performance, Wagon, BMW, Luxury

AC Schnitzer BMW 5 Series Touring - Click above for high-res image gallery

The new 2011 BMW 5 Series Touring has been subjected to the AC Schnitzer tuning machine, with the result being the "Power Treatment," making the load-lugging forbidden fruit even more desirable than before. Under the hood, horsepower jumps range from 34 extra ponies for the 520d (going from 184 to 218 horsepower) to 41 additional horses for the 530d (from 245 to 286 hp).

Looks to match the go-fast come by way of an aero package that affixes lower front spoiler lips that bookend a bigger air inlet, new side skirts and a revised rear end treatment. Throatier sounds come courtesy of the in-house exhaust with chromed twin pipes and rear silencer. And the new suspension and steering components will keep the 20-inch five-spoke alloys rolling straight and true. Follow the jump for the full press release and video, and you can find all the angles in the gallery of high-res photos below.

Gallery: BMW F11 5 Series Touring by AC Schnitzer

[Source: AC Schnitzer]

Continue reading AC Schnitzer tunes up BMW's latest 5 Series Touring [w/video]

AC Schnitzer tunes up BMW's latest 5 Series Touring [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 02 Dec 2010 14:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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AC Schnitzer gives the BMW X1 a once-over

Jonathon Ramsey — Wed, 17 Feb 2010 17:33:00 EST

Filed under: Aftermarket, Geneva Motor Show, Crossover, BMW, Luxury

AC Schnitzer X1 E84 - Click above for high-res image gallery

The Westphalians at AC Schnitzer have done a number on the diesel BMW X1 to come up with the AC Schnitzer X1 E84. The range of changes, options, and badging - especially the badging - is extensive. But the crux of the tuned crossover is that the 1.8d model goes from 143 horsepower to 171, and the 2.0d goes from 177 hp to 210.

Your super schneller X1 will look the part with a comprehensive aerodynamics package outside and carbon goodies inside, including a Schnitzer logo'd cover for the iDrive controller. And it is promised as the "new standard in driving pleasure" because of a new suspension kit. Schnitzer's full info on the X1 E84 is in the press release after the jump, and you can get a high-res view of it in the gallery below. Stay tune for all of our live pics and info from Geneva.

Gallery: AC Schnitzer BMW X1 E84

[Source: AC Schnitzer]

Continue reading AC Schnitzer gives the BMW X1 a once-over

AC Schnitzer gives the BMW X1 a once-over originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 17 Feb 2010 17:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Essen 2009: AC Schnitzer gives BMW 123d the police package treatment [w/VIDEO]

Sam Abuelsamid — Sat, 28 Nov 2009 19:31:00 EST

Filed under: Aftermarket, Concept Cars, Coupe, Europe, BMW, Misc. Auto Shows, Police/Emergency, Design/Style, Diesel

AC Schnitzer BMW 123d Tune It Safe! police concept - Click above for high-res image gallery

High performance vehicles like Porsche 911s being used for pursuit duty on Germany's autobahn is nothing new. As such, in order order to grab the attention of Essen Motor Show attendees, the Tune It Safe! program's annual police-liveried show car needs to go a step further. Past efforts have included rides such as a police-liveried Brabus Rocket and a TechArt-prepared Porsche 911. This year, AC Schnitzer got the call and it has unwrapped (or perhaps wrapped is the better term, given the side graphics) a police car concept based on the BMW 123d coupe.

Naturally, Schnitzer couldn't leave the stock, 40 mpg 204-horsepower twin-turbo 2.0-liter four-cylinder diesel alone, and so it has boosted the show car's engine to 241 horsepower and 354 pound-feet of torque. They've also applied an array of their appearance upgrades including a front splitter, rear spoiler, and a bigger wheel/tire package. The body has been dropped 30 millimeters, which should help compensate a bit for the extra drag of the light bar on the roof. Inside, racing seats and carbon fiber trim are accompanied by a cover for the iDrive knob that matches the wheel design.

We'll pass on the light bar and the graphics, but take the rest of the car, please. Not sure about it yourself? Take a look at the high-res gallery below and a video available after the jump.

Gallery: AC Schnitzer BMW 123d police package

[Source: AC Schnitzer]

Continue reading Essen 2009: AC Schnitzer gives BMW 123d the police package treatment [w/VIDEO]

Essen 2009: AC Schnitzer gives BMW 123d the police package treatment [w/VIDEO] originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 28 Nov 2009 19:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Little Schnitzer: German tuner tweaks the Mini Cabrio

Noah Joseph — Thu, 04 Jun 2009 12:57:00 EST

Filed under: Aftermarket, Tuners, Convertible, Mini

AC Schnitzer Mini Cooper S convertible - Click above for a high-res image gallery

From the base model all the way up to the JCW, there's no shortage of trim levels available for the Mini and its various body-styles. But if you're looking for something a little different, BMW tuner par excellence AC Schnitzer has released a full tuning package for the latest R57 Mini Cabrio.

The treats start under the hood, where Schnitzer takes the Cooper S and pumps it up from 175 horsepower (good) to 208 horsepower for the domestic market (better) or 226 horsepower for export (booyah!). Not the kind of tuning house to tweak the engine and leave the rest untouched, AC's also offering a limited slip differential, an adjustable suspension setup, a sport exhaust. Naturally, the buyer can trim out their Cooper with manner of visual upgrades, too, from the aero package to the various rolling stock options and all the requisite decals and interior trim touches.

Gallery: AC Schnitzer Mini Cooper S cabrio

[Source: AC Schnitzer]

Little Schnitzer: German tuner tweaks the Mini Cabrio originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 04 Jun 2009 12:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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AC Schnitzer releases LCD-equipped shift knob

Damon Lavrinc — Fri, 12 Sep 2008 08:29:00 EST

Filed under: Aftermarket, Tuners, BMW, Mini

Click above for high-res gallery

Over a year ago we told you about the Indy-Cator, an LCD-equipped shift knob that displayed your gear selection. Now, the German tuning powerhouse AC Schnitzer has come up with its own version for BMWs and MINIs, and we're still left wondering if it has any practical use.

According to AC, drivers have to rely solely on feel to know which gear they're in at any given time (gasp), so the digital display takes all that pesky guesswork out of gear selection. The red LED on the shift knob has a light sensor which dims or brightens the display depending on conditions, matches the stock interior lighting, features a position sensor and can be installed in just a few minutes.

AC Schnitzer hasn't released pricing, but just like the Indy-Cator, its worth is in the hand of the beholder.

AC Schnitzer releases LCD-equipped shift knob originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 12 Sep 2008 08:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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AC Schnitzer reveals aero package for BMW X6

Noah Joseph — Mon, 28 Jul 2008 16:03:00 EST

Filed under: Aftermarket, Crossover, BMW

Click above for high-res gallery of the AC Schnitzer BMW X6

In case the BMW X6 just doesn't look "the business" enough for your liking, AC Schnitzer has revealed a new aero package for BMW's controversial segment-buster. Hot on the heels of the X6 5.0iS spy shots we brought you today, Schnitzer's package is mostly cosmetic. It consists of a new front bumper with integrated diagonal vents and fog lights, a new rear bumper with diffuser and integrated tailpipe enclosure, and a set of 22" Type VII modular rims. The tuning house is also offering a set of new springs developed on the 'Ring, and a three-spoke steering wheel. The end result, of course, is a matter of taste, but with nothing more than a new engine control unit offered for the diesel models, we wish we had some engine mods to report on. Check out the show in the gallery below.

Gallery: AC Schnitzer BMW X6

[Source: AC Schnitzer]

AC Schnitzer reveals aero package for BMW X6 originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 28 Jul 2008 16:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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AC Schnitzer takes on the MINI Clubman S

Damon Lavrinc — Wed, 14 May 2008 16:58:00 EST

Filed under: Aftermarket, Tuners, Hatchback, Mini

Click above for a high res gallery of the AC Schnitzer MINI Clubman S.

The MINI Clubman isn't what we'd call overly practical, or particularly pretty, but AC Schnitzer has done its best to address the biggie-sized MINI's faults. AC's interpretation of the Clubman S begins with an increase in output courtesy of a new sports exhaust that aids breathing and increases power to 226 hp and 210 lb.-ft. of torque. A "twin sports rear silencer" ensures that you won't be irritating the neighbors on your way to Macy's, and a choice of either a simple spring kit or a height-adjustable racing suspension gives the Clubman a more sporting stance while ensuring that things remain planted if you ever decide to tackle the twisties. AC Schnitzer is offering a choice of 17x7.5- or 18x7.5-inch wheels, a new hood with a bulging power dome and aluminum pedals to round out the appearance package, along with a limited slip differential to make sure that peg-leg burnouts are kept in check while darting from stop-light to stop-light. Hit the jump to read AC Schnitzer's flowery prose about its reworked Clubman S.

Gallery: AC Schnitzer MINI Clubman S

Continue reading AC Schnitzer takes on the MINI Clubman S

AC Schnitzer takes on the MINI Clubman S originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 14 May 2008 16:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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AC Schnitzer does the 1-series cabrio

Damon Lavrinc — Wed, 07 May 2008 19:43:00 EST

Filed under: Aftermarket, Tuners, Convertible, BMW

Click above for a high-res gallery of the ACS1 Cabrio.

In typical AC Schnitzer fashion, the German tuner wasted no time getting to work on the new BMW 1-series cabrio. Then again, it didn't take much effort to port over the work AC did for the standard 1-series coupe to its softer, drop-top sibling.

The ACS1 Cabrio package includes all the Schitzerfied exterior elements (new front bumper, rear bumper with diffuser and side skirts) and interior bits (silver carbon fiber trim, aluminum pedal and shifter, etc.) you'd expect. More importantly, AC is offering tuning packages for every model in the 1-series lineup, including the 135i, 120d and 123d. The two diesel mills get a bump in power to 200 hp and 240 hp respectively, with the 135i outputting 360 hp through the use of a revised exhaust and some ECU tweaks. Naturally, AC is offering up a plethora of wheel options, sized from 17- to 19-inches.

Gallery: AC Schnitzer ACS1 BMW 1-series cabrio

[Source: AC Schnitzer]

AC Schnitzer does the 1-series cabrio originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 07 May 2008 19:43:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Six Appeal: AC Schnitzer's new 6-series mods includes diesel tuning

Damon Lavrinc — Thu, 10 Apr 2008 16:56:00 EST

Filed under: Aftermarket, Tuners, Performance, BMW

Click above for high-res gallery of the 2008 BMW 6-Series by AC Schnitzer

AC Schnitzer revamped its offerings for the 2008 BMW 6-series and is including tweaks for the 635d model. The changes boost power from the stock oilburner's 286 hp and 428 lb.-ft. to 310 hp and 501 lb.-ft. of torque. Along with the engine mods, the AC crew has redesigned its 6-series body kit to include a new lower intake, side skirts, rear lip and rear spoiler with an integrated brake light, along with fitting Type VI 20x9-inch wheels in the front and 20x10s out back. The 650i model also gets some love under the hood with an increase in power from 367 hp to 411 hp, which helps the new Schnitzer 6 get a 22 mph boost in its top speed to 178 mph. All the details are in AC's press release, posted after the jump.

Gallery: AC Schnitzer 2008 BMW 6-series

Continue reading Six Appeal: AC Schnitzer's new 6-series mods includes diesel tuning

Six Appeal: AC Schnitzer's new 6-series mods includes diesel tuning originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 10 Apr 2008 16:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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AC Schnitzer knows what time it is

Alex Nunez — Sat, 19 Jan 2008 16:33:00 EST

Filed under: Tuners, Lifestyle

In addition to tuning BMWs (and lately, beating them with an ugly stick in the process), AC Schnitzer offers a series of wristwatches. Who knew? This week, the company unveiled its Quartz Chronograph 2. Handsome and traditional in appearance (unlike some of its newer vehicle body kits), the new chrono features a brushed stainless case that's water resistant to 100 meters. A tachometer rings its pale yellow face, which also includes separate hour, minute, and second counters. A black leather strap with white contrast stitching affixes the timepiece to your wrist, and checking the time at night is no problem, either. The entire face is made of phosphorescent Luminova. Schnitzer doesn't say how much the new chrono costs, but we're fairly certain it's a good deal more than your garden-variety Timex.

[Source: AC Schnitzer]

Gallery: AC Schnitzer Quartz Chronograph 2

AC Schnitzer knows what time it is originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 19 Jan 2008 16:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Essen 2007: Details on AC Schnitzer's E92 M3

Drew Phillips — Fri, 30 Nov 2007 17:56:00 EST

Filed under: Aftermarket, Tuners, Coupe, BMW

Click above image to view the high resolution photo

We gave you a preview of AC Schnitzer's version of the M3 earlier this month, and now we have the official details of the ACS3 Sport as well as more photos for your viewing enjoyment. The 4.0-liter V8 has been left untouched, but moving through the gears can be done more quickly with a short throw shifter, and a new exhaust system has been installed with dual "figure eight" tail pipes. A race-tuned suspension refined on the Nurburgring helps increase the handling limit of the car, and it drops the car pretty tightly over the new 20-inch 5-spoke wheels. AC Schnitzer has made a few tweaks to the exterior with a carbon fiber rear diffuser and front splitter, new side skirts, and a subtle roof spoiler that do a good job of not spoiling the original design of the car. AC Schnitzer didn't ignore the interior, and has a carbon fiber trim kit, sport steering wheel, and various aluminum accent pieces available. The full details can be viewed in the press release after the jump, and check out the gallery below.

[Source: AC Schnitzer]

Gallery: AC Schnitzer ACS3 Sport

Continue reading Essen 2007: Details on AC Schnitzer's E92 M3

Essen 2007: Details on AC Schnitzer's E92 M3 originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 30 Nov 2007 17:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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BMW 135i gets Schnitzered: 360 HP ACS1

Damon Lavrinc — Thu, 29 Nov 2007 15:26:00 EST

Filed under: Aftermarket, Tuners, Coupe, BMW

Click the image above for a high-res gallery.

Like everything else from the propeller people, AC Schnitzer gets a stab at improving BMW's products before they're even released to the masses. The formula is the same for the new 135i, boosting power output of the 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged six to 360 HP and 332 lb.-ft. of torque, while simultaneously dropping the 0-60 time to under five seconds and increasing the top speed to 186 mph. The additional power is found with the installation of a new exhaust and some clever ECU tweaks, while the suspension has been replaced with the firm's sports setup that was tuned on the Nurburgring's North Loop by touring car hot shoe Manfred Wollgarten.

The body kit, comprised of a new front spoiler, side skirts, rear wing and roof mounted spoiler, supposedly do wonders for high velocity hoonage, while a set of 19x18.5-inch Type IV "BiColor" wheels wrapped in 225/35R19 rubber keep things planted at speed. Naturally, the interior benefits from a few choice pieces of trim in either aluminum or carbon fiber.

All the details are in the press release after the jump and you can check the gallery below for a handful of high-res images.

Gallery: AC Schnitzer ACS1

Continue reading BMW 135i gets Schnitzered: 360 HP ACS1

BMW 135i gets Schnitzered: 360 HP ACS1 originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 29 Nov 2007 15:26:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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AC Schnitzer GP3.10 LPG powered 3-series hits 318 km/h

Damon Lavrinc — Sat, 17 Nov 2007 09:28:00 EST

Filed under: Aftermarket, Tuners, Coupe, Hybrid, Green, BMW

Click the image above for more shots of the GP3.10 hammering around Nardo.

You might recall the AC Schnitzer crew trotting out a particularly gaudy BMW 3-series coupe in Frankfurt called the GP3.10, powered by a V10 engine pulled from the M5/M6 running off liquefied petroleum. While the styling of the Bimmer caused a few of us to inadvertently gag while patrolling the floor in Germany, its performance potential - 552 hp and 400 lb.-ft. of torque - showed promise.

Fast forward a few months later, and according to the Schnitzer folks, the GP3.10 set the world record for the fastest gas-powered car in the world. The coupe was brought out to the 13-mile Nardo test track in Southern Italy where it laid down a terminal velocity of 318.1 km/h, or 197 mph. While that's a feat unto itself, even more surprising is AC Schnitzer's claim that some of the technology will filter down to the tuner's products in the future.

[Source: AC Schnitzer]

Gallery: AC Schnitzer GP3.10 at Nardo

Continue reading AC Schnitzer GP3.10 LPG powered 3-series hits 318 km/h

AC Schnitzer GP3.10 LPG powered 3-series hits 318 km/h originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 17 Nov 2007 09:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Essen Motor Show preview: AC Schnitzer BMW E92 M3

Damon Lavrinc — Fri, 09 Nov 2007 20:04:00 EST

Filed under: Aftermarket, Tuners, Coupe, BMW, Misc. Auto Shows

The Essen Motor Show in Germany has become one of the major outlets for Europe's aftermarket tuners to show their wares to a dedicated fan base. Among the many models set to make their modified debut in the land of schnitzel and spatzel is the AC Schnitzer BMW E92 M3.

Details are scarce on what's been done to the suspension and under the hood, but if the exterior enhancements are any indication, we'd expect the folks at AC to bring their trademark blend of functionality and style into a comprehensive whole. Carbon fiber adorns the front splitter and side skirts, and we'd suspect that a C.F. rear diffuser is mounted out back - all of which ties in nicely to the exposed weave on the roof. The larger rolling stock (20s?) is typical Schnitzer style and the lowered ride height is likely a coilover system derived from their standard E92 setup.

As soon as AC Schnitzer releases its official details, we'll have more.

[Source: Motor Authority]

Essen Motor Show preview: AC Schnitzer BMW E92 M3 originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 09 Nov 2007 20:04:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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