Autoblog

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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Autoblog Podcast #77

Dan Roth — Thu, 20 Sep 2007 16:32:00 EST

Filed under: Concept Cars, Frankfurt Motor Show, Podcasts, Coupe, Performance, Crossover, Aston Martin, Bentley, BMW, Bugatti, Dodge, Ford, GM, Jaguar, Lamborghini, Mercedes-Benz, Mini, PSA, Volkswagen, Volvo, Renault, Brabus

We're back with Autoblog Podcast #77, and it's a Frankfurt-recap extravaganza. We discuss our favorite picks, as well as touching on some of the numerous highlights from the monster-sized show. We got a glimpse of the Jaguar XF in person, and it's better in person, but can it save Jaguar? BMW unveiled the X6, it's own AMC Spirit ripoff, not to be left behind by the Audi Cross Coupe Quattro from Shanghai. We continue on about exotic sheetmetal from Brabus, Schnitzer, Bentley, and Aston Martin, to name a few. On the more mundane tip, the Mazda 6 rocked, the Aveo was ugly, the Journey landed on its face, and could we please, please knock it off with the front quarter panel vents? After Alex's speed-round wrapup, we discuss a solitary piece of non-Frankfurt news, the Jeep J8. Yes, it's awesome, no, you can't buy one. Damn, that's stupid, Chrysler. Onward!

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Autoblog Podcast #77 originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 20 Sep 2007 16:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Frankurt 2007: AC Schnitzer has gas, runs with it in GP3.10

Damon Lavrinc — Wed, 12 Sep 2007 05:56:00 EST

Filed under: Aftermarket, Frankfurt Motor Show, Tuners, Coupe, Hybrid, Green

Click the image above for a host of high-res pics of the AC Schnitzer GP3.10

For over two decades, AC Schnitzer has built its brand on motoring madness with looks to match. Normally, this involves a bevy of modifications to enhance every performance-related aspect of the vehicle, but with the GP3.10, they've made the bold move of trying to balance fuel efficiency with sporting dynamics.

The GP3.10 houses an M5/M6-sourced V10 that runs on liquefied petroleum gas and produces 552 HP and nearly 400 lb.-ft. of torque. 60 comes up in a cool four-and-a-half seconds, and between high-speed runs you can fill up at one of the 2,700 LPG-packing fuel stations sprinkled across Germany. Of course, the Schnitzer folks couldn't leave the GP looking like a standard 3, so they unfortunately took the interior and exterior to an unhealthy extreme.

You can read up on all the details in the press release after the jump, and peruse through the gallery below.

Gallery: AC Schnitzer GP3.10 GAS POWERED

Continue reading Frankurt 2007: AC Schnitzer has gas, runs with it in GP3.10

Frankurt 2007: AC Schnitzer has gas, runs with it in GP3.10 originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 12 Sep 2007 05:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Frankfurt Preview: AC Schnitzer GP3.10 Concept

Alex Nunez — Fri, 07 Sep 2007 14:57:00 EST

Filed under: Concept Cars, Frankfurt Motor Show, Coupe, Performance, Europe, Supercars, BMW

Click image for hi-res gallery

One of AC Schnitzer's Frankfurt debuts mixes very high performance with a little bit of a greenish tint. Behold the GP3.10, a 3-Series coupe that has been completely transformed with a full interior and exterior overhaul (which you will either love or hate). The car's name tells you the rest of what you need to know:

GP: Gas-powered, as in Liquid Petroleum Gas (LPG)
3: For 3-Series
10: For 10 cylinders

Yes, that's correct. The GP3.10 sheds its stock I6 for a worked-over V10 sourced from an M5/M6, and AC Schnitzer has fitted the motor with an LPG system that turns the car into a dual-fuel monster dishing out 552 horsepower and 398 lb-ft of torque. The driver can switch between fuel sources (gasoline or LPG) at any time, and LPG is readily available in Germany (2,700 filling stations, according to AC Schnitzer). There is the added benefit that CO2 emissions when running on the LPG are 15% lower than when on gasoline. But let's be honest, potential buyers of something like this aren't looking for green-ness. They're probably more interested in the gaudy 4.5 second 0-62 time and 198 mph top speed. As for the equally gaudy multicolor, multi-textured interior and the fully-Schnitzered exterior, we'll leave the judgments to you. We will say that the center-outlet exhaust is pretty nifty, but we are so not crazy about that little F1-style mini roof wing.

Full details on the car are available at AC Schnitzer's website (follow the "Read" link), and we have a gallery full of hi-res images for you below.

[Source: AC Schnitzer]

Gallery: AC Schnitzer GP3.10 Concept

Frankfurt Preview: AC Schnitzer GP3.10 Concept originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 07 Sep 2007 14:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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'Ring-spotting: BMW M3 look-a-like receives V10 transplant

Damon Lavrinc — Thu, 16 Aug 2007 13:01:00 EST

Filed under: Tuners, Coupe, Etc., Supercars, BMW

You know you're getting a bit jaded when you pass up posting a few shots of an E92 3-series with a M5 V10 under the hood. Been there, done that, right? But we were finally compelled to share it with you when we found out what vehicle was used as the recipient - a new BMW M3. Well, that's not quite true, while this car may look for all the world like a new M3, it's actually a run-of-the-mill E92 3-series coupe that's cleverly dressed to the nines to appear like an M3. The tip-off is that there are no M-parts on the inside. Crazy Germans, though they've obviously done an incredible job fooling everyone.

A forum member over at M3Post was able to snag several shots of the 500 HP coupe while on holiday in Germany, where the Bremgo-tuned M3 imposter was sitting outside the Nurburgring doing its best to look menacing and inviting at the same time.

Aside from the engine switch, the German tuning firm swapped in an M5's seven-speed SMG (doh!), along with ditching the stock thrones for Recaro units and a Hartge carbon-fiber steering wheel. And if you're wondering about the rollers, those are 20-inch AC Schnitzers wrapped in 295/25/20 rubber.

More pics here. Enjoy!

'Ring-spotting: BMW M3 look-a-like receives V10 transplant originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 16 Aug 2007 13:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Z4-based AC Schnitzer PROFILE concept should keep a lower one

Alex Nunez — Wed, 01 Aug 2007 15:33:00 EST

Filed under: Aftermarket, Coupe, Performance, BMW

Click image for gallery

When we first saw the AC Schnitzer PROFILE, we thought, "Man, that's a slick-looking ambulance." Then we looked more closely and realized it was a BMW Z4. The PROFILE is AC Schnitzer's latest concept creation, based on the current M Coupe, and while it has the guts of a performer, it looks pretty weird.

By the numbers, all's well. 350 horses are paddocked in the engine compartment thanks to a new airbox and remapped ECU. AC Schnitzer also fitted its Short Shift kit and changed the rear axle ratio to 3.91:1. Great.

Not-so-great is the orange-and-white two-tone paint job, which is distracting and pulls attention away from the body kit that is mostly good, actually. However, Schnitzer points to those fender ports and says, "BMW 507!" We see them and think, "Buick!" They call the diminutive roof wing "fascinatingly styled." We think "very ugly" is more apt. The wheels are cool, though. As are the hood vents and exhaust. Nix the portholes, throw the dopey roof wing in the dumpster, paint it one color, and we're in. As currently presented, however, we'll pass, thanks.

[Source: AC Schnitzer]

Gallery: AC Schnitzer PROFILE Concept

Continue reading Z4-based AC Schnitzer PROFILE concept should keep a lower one

Z4-based AC Schnitzer PROFILE concept should keep a lower one originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 01 Aug 2007 15:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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AC Schnitzer does up the new MINI

Alex Nunez — Wed, 18 Jul 2007 17:18:00 EST

Filed under: Europe, Hatchback, Mini

Click image for hi-res photo gallery

Longtime BMW performance specialist AC Schnitzer has turned its attention to the new R56 MINI Cooper S, and the result is the blue bomber pictured above. The big upgrade is the available Nordschelife-developed racing suspension (which can be combined with a separately-available spring kit) that takes the already athletic MINI and elevates it to new dynamic levels. AC Schnitzer can also improve the car's breathing on the exhalation side via a new sports muffler with a chromed double-tip. Visually, a host of appearance upgrades are on the table, with new skirting, spoilers, and a decal/stripe package available to owners, all of which add a decidedly racy look to the diminutive hatchback. Drivers can cap things off with a selection of alloy wheels and interior trim enhancements that allow additional personalization to taste.

[Source: AC Schnitzer]

Gallery: AC Schnitzer R56 MINI Cooper S

AC Schnitzer does up the new MINI originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 18 Jul 2007 17:18:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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AC Schnitzer's BMW S3 does diesel right

Damon Lavrinc — Thu, 31 May 2007 20:03:00 EST

Filed under: Aftermarket, Convertible, Hybrid, Europe, Green, BMW

When the next generation of clean diesels finally make their way into the hands of anxious American consumers, we expect some tuners to welcome them with open arms. After all, vehicles equipped with turbos from the factory are begging to be tweaked, and when it comes to diesels, the results can boost fuel economy, along with performance.

AC Schnitzer is already making inroads with BMW's dual-turbo 3-liter diesel, boosting output of the oilburner from 231 HP to 265 HP through a remapped ECU and a dual exhaust. Their S3 package not only includes tweaks to the engine, but also a fully reworked body kit. Designed for the new 3-series convertible, the kit comes complete with a new front spoiler, rear apron and side skirts, while the suspension gets a strut tower brace and a revised rear stabilizer bar.

An AC Schnitzer makeover wouldn't be complete without some trick rolling stock, so customers can choose between either 19- or 20-inch rims, with the latter sporting 245s up front and 295s in the rear.

While we can espouse the virtues of diesel all day long, what we're really looking forward to from AC Schnitzer is it upcoming tweaks to the twin-turbo three-liter six in the 335i. If the S3 is any indication, good things are on the way.

[Source: InsideLine]

AC Schnitzer's BMW S3 does diesel right originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 31 May 2007 20:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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AC Schnitzer ACS4 Roadster and Coupe

Damon Lavrinc — Fri, 24 Nov 2006 15:29:00 EST

Filed under: Convertible, Coupe, Performance, BMW

The famed BMW tuners at AC Schnitzer have turned their attention to the newest variants of the Z4, offering upgrades to both the roadster and it's hard top sibling. The full kit, dubbed the ACS4 package, includes a host of appearance and performance accessories that make the standard models look pedestrian in comparison.

On the "show" side of the equation, both vehicles can benefit from downforce producing aero bits that are easily exchanged between both the coupe and ragtop. Subtle details, like the replacement of the standard side turn signal units with custom AC components go a long way to show how much the uber-tuner is obsessed with minutiae.

When it comes to the "go" aspects of performance, AC rarely disappoints and in this case it seems that no stone was left unturned. The rear axle ratio was changed to elicit more lively acceleration, along with a tuned exhaust that provides a few more ponies and a sonorous howl. Different exhaust components are fitted dependent on whether the Z4 is the base 3-liter model or the M-olested version, equipped with the 3.2-liter inline six.

In an effort to strike a balance between power and handling, the ACS4 models are equipped with any combination of tire, wheel and suspension components, of which we lost track of after about 30. Naturally, the disc brakes are upgraded in size, along with new calipers and grittier pads.

Inside, drivers can opt for a custom, airbag equipped wheel, as well as metal pedal sets, shift knobs, handbrake handles and a number of trim materials.

A full break down of the aero components can be viewed, along with a host of photos, at World Car Fans.

[Source: World Car Fans]

AC Schnitzer ACS4 Roadster and Coupe originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 24 Nov 2006 15:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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