AC Schnitzer added fender trim, a front apron with a chrome grille, boot lid spoiler and a rear apron housing a new diffuser. The lowered suspension leaves room for a set of 21-inch wheels that weight 25.3 lbs. A set of breaks have also been included in the kit with 8-piston calipers.

Interior mods include aluminum pedals, upgraded trim, and a sports steering wheel.

Power gets a significant boost up to 540-hp, up from the 4.4-liter V8’s stock output of 407hp.

Overall, this is a solid effort from the German tuner, with a nice power upgrade and an attractive styling package.

- By: Alexandra Koken

The German tuner gave the new 2012 Euro 1-Series a new front apron and roof spoiler, a graphic option, and a selection of 18- or 19-inch wheels. Interior mods add aluminum details, custom floor mats, and a custom shift knob that has its own option for a digital display.

Click here for more news on the BMW 1-Series.

The 1-Series power kit is for the four-cylinder diesel engine that kicks power up 28-hp to 171-hp, or up to 210-hp in the 120d version. Chrome tailpipes and a lowered suspension have also been added.

- By: Alexandra Koken

At the 2011 Frankfurt Motor Show, AC Schnitzer will debut its modification package for the BMW 650i Convertible that will upgrade power from 400-hp to 540-hp. That will give the 2012 BMW 650i the ability to go from 0 to 62 mph in 4.4 seconds (0 to 60 mph in 4.3 seconds). Top speed is increased from 155 mph to 192 mph.

Click here for more news on the BMW 6-Series.

Visual upgrades include a new front spoiler, chromed front grille and chrome decor strips, a rear skirt insert, and a range of 21-inch wheels. Inside, the AC Schnitzer tuned BMW 650i convertible gets trim painted in matte space grey, a sports steering wheel, AC Schnitzer ‘Black Line’ aluminum cover for the i-Drive system controller and the AC Schnitzer aluminum foot rests and pedals. Buyers will also get boot and foot mats in velours.

- By: Omar Rana

Visually, AC Schnitzer added a bunch of bodykit modifications including a twin sports rear silencer with chromed “Racing” tailpipes, carbon front spoiler, chromed front grille, carbon rear diffusor and AC Schnitzer design elements on the front wings.

Click here for more news on the BMW 1-Series M Coupe.

The interior also gets some upgrades including a painted center console in Valencia Orange, the AC Schnitzer ‘Black Line’ aluminum gear knob and handbrake handle and the ‘Black Line’ aluminum cover for the i-Drive system controller. You also get AC Scnitzer aluminum foot rest and pedal set, velour foot mats and AC Schnitzer sports steering wheel in alcantara.

Click here for our review of the BMW 1-Series M Coupe.

Wheel packages include 19 or 20-inch options from the Type VIII and Type V forged alloy wheels in BiColor, Type VIII and Type IV wheels in BiColor and Type IV.

Okay enough with all the visual parts – what about under the hood. AC Schnitzer engineers dialed up the output from 340-hp to 400-hp with a maximum torque of 413 lb-ft. That will allow you to go from 0 to 62 mph in 4.7 seconds (4.6 seconds to 60 mph) with a top speed of 186 mph (up from the 1-Series M Coupe’s 155 mph).

Not bad at all.

- By: Omar Rana

BMW’s 1-Series M Coupe has a tuner kit in the works by Germany’s AC Schnitzer. So far it includes bountiful upgrades for the interior, and an attractive wheel selection.

Two different colored models have been made over, a Sapphire Black, and, for the daring, a Valencia Orange version.

Click here for more news on the BMW 1-Series M Coupe.

The already sporty suspension has been tuned to even further enhance that appeal, and the break system was given a complete overhaul. The idea behind the break upgrades is to reduce weight, using a high performance system designed for stability and that keep heat down when you’re in for the long haul. Included in the system are fixed caliper front and rear breaks, 6 and 4 piston, respectively, break pads and pipes, vented brake discs, and caliper mounting brackets.

Inside, the 1 -Series M Coupe has been fitted with a leather gear shift cover and illuminated knob that also includes a digital display. Aluminium covers the handbreak handle, the i-Drive system controller, pedals and foot rests. Velor floor mats have also been added.

Click here for our review of the BMW 1-Series M Coupe.

Refresher: The 2012 BMW 1-Series M Coupe is powered by a 3.0L inline 6-cylinder twin-turbocharged engine making 335-hp and a maximum torque of 332 lb-ft. Mated to a 6-speed manual transmission, the 2012 BMW 1-Series M Coupe goes from 0 to 62 mph in 4.9 seconds (0 to 60 mph in 4.7 seconds) with a top speed of 155 mph.Prices start at $47,010.

AC Schnitzer BMW 1-Series M Coupe Wheels:

First Drive: 2012 BMW 1-Series M Coupe:

All First Drive Photos Copyright © Omar Rana – egmCarTech.

AC Schnitzer BMW 1-Series M Coupe Wheels:

First Drive: 2012 BMW 1-Series M Coupe:

Numerous wheel options include:

Type VIII Lightweight Forged Wheels, BiColor
front: 8,5J x 19″ with tires 245/35 R 19
rear: 9,5J x 19″ with tires 275/30 R 19

Type VIII BiColor Wheels
front: 8,5J x 19″ with tires 245/35 R 19
rear: 9,5J x 19″ with tires 275/30 R 19

Type V Lightweight Forged BiColor Wheels
front: 9,0J x 20″ with tires 235/30 R 20
rear: 10,0J x 20″ with tires 285/25 R 20

Type IV Silver Wheels
front: 8,5J x 19″ with tires 245/35 R 19
rear: 9,5J x 19″ with tires 275/30 R 19

Type IV BiColor Wheels
front: 8,5J x 19″ with tires 245/35 R 19
rear: 9,5J x 19″ with tires 275/30 R 19

front: 9,0J x 20″ with tires 235/30 R 20
rear: 10,0J x 20″ with tires 295/25 R 20

No power information has been released yet, and there are still more enhancements in the works, including aerodynamic exterior mods.

With the X3 M still being anticiapated, AC Schnitzer has given BMW X3 fans something that may be able to satisfy that craving. Plenty of options are available for those who like extras.

Under the hood you get an extra 34-hp, bringing the cars specs up to 218-hp on the X3 xDrive 20d, and a performance upgrade will be available, soon. Other performance mods include an upgraded exhaust, “Racing” tailpipe, and a suspension spring kit for a better ride.

Exterior upgrades add a new front and rear spoiler. Many wheel options are available, in BiColor and Silver choices, size options from 18-22 inches, and once piece rims are also available.

Click here for more news on the BMW X3.

The interior comes with the options of a modified steering wheel, aluminum gear knobs and pedals, choices for leather details, and even velour foot mats. “Black Line” detailing is also a possibility.

Any fan of modified cars would enjoy this through and through. With a ton of choices to pick from, tons of unique combinations are possible.

Refresher: The 2011 BMW X3 is available in the United States in two different models including the X3 xDrive28i and the X3 xDrive35i. The X3 xDrive28i is powered by a 3.0L inline 6-clyinder unit making 240-hp and 230 lb-ft of torque, allowing 0-60 mph to come in 6.7 seconds. The BMW X3 xDrive35i is powered by a 3.0L inline 6-clyinder N55 with direct fuel injection, twin-scroll turbo technology and Valvetronic. It makes 300-hp and 300 lb-ft of torque, allowing the 0-60 mph run to come in 5.5 seconds when fitted with the optional Sport Package. Both models are mated to an 8-speed automatic transmission. Prices start at $37,625 for the 2011 BMW X3 xDrive28i and $41,925 for the X3 xDrive35i.

2011 BMW X3 by AC Schnitzer:

- By: Alexandra Koken

AC Schnitzer 99d Concept BMW Z4

Joining the AC Schnitzer ACS5 Sport S 5-Series at the 2011 Geneva Motor Show is the AC Schnitzer 99d Concept. Based on the BMW Z4, the AC Schnitzer 99d Concept carries a diesel engine from the BMW 320d making 190-hp and a maximum torque of 309 lb-ft of torque.

That allows the AC Schnitzer 99d Concept to go from 0-62 mph in 6.9 seconds with a top speed of 146 mph. Fuel-economy comes in at 62 mpg. That is made possible with the help of Aachen and a weight reduction of 506 lbs – making it lighter than any current standard BMW. Also helping reduce fuel-economy are the Continental BLUECO tires (size 225/35/19), which helps optimize the rolling resistance.

AC Schnitzer also added BMW EfficientDynamics technologies from the BMW 320d including automatic start-stop, brake energy recuperation, gear shift display, low-friction lubricants and active aerodynamics.

The AC Schnitzer 99d is a concept and is not for sale. In the form shown here, the vehicle would cost € 149,000 ($207,921 USD).

Check out the high-res gallery after the jump.

AC Schnitzer 99d Concept BMW Z4:

- By: Omar Rana

AC Schnitzer ACS5 Sport S

Looking forward to the 2012 BMW M5? Well, you can watch this short teaser of the model here, or you can just check out AC Schnitzer’s stand at the 2011 Geneva Motor Show. At the show, AC Schnitzer is showing the ACS5 Sport S Saloon (sedan), which is obviously based on the 5-Series sedan.

The AC Schnitzer ACS5 is a concept vehicle that has been upgraded from 407-hp to a whopping 540-hp. That allows 0 to 62 mph to come in just 4.5 seconds with a top speed of around 198.8 mph.

Performance upgrades by AC Schnitzer include a limited slip differential with up to 75% effect, AC Schnitzer twin sports rear silencer with chromed ‘Sports Trim’ tail pipe trims left and right, 8-piston fixed calipers left and right, and an 8-piece kit of brake pads and calipers on the front axle and the AC Schnitzer racing suspension.

There have been some aerodynamic upgrades made as well including a front spoiler, chromed front grille, a new carbon front spoiler center part, carbon air ducts for the brakes left and right, carbon side skirts, engine bay ventilated by the bonnet vents, an AC Schnitzer rear roof spoiler, an AC Schnitzer sports wings left and right with Chromline Set and a carbon rear diffusor.

The high-res gallery has been added after the jump for your viewing pleasure.

AC Schnitzer ACS5 Sport S BMW 5-Series:

- By: Omar Rana

AC Schnitzer MINI E Tune! Safe! Police Car

At the 2010 Essen Motor Show, AC Schnitzer unveiled the new Tune It! Safe! Mini E. This customized Mini E is dressed up like a police car and features a modified front and rear fascia along with new side skirts, a ventilated hood and 18-inch alloy wheels wrapped in Hankook tires. The inside of the car gets a blue trim, aluminum pedals and custom floor mats.

No upgrades were made to the electric-powertrain of the Mini E but AC Schnitzer did put in a sport suspension and high-performance brakes.

Tune it! Safe! is a joint initiative between Germany’s Verband Deutscher Automobil Tuner and the Federal Ministry of Transport, Building and Urban Development. The effort promotes safe and responsible tuning.

Check out the high-res gallery after the jump.

AC Schnitzer MINI E Tune! Safe! Police Car:

- By: Omar Rana

Source: AC Schnitzer (via WCF)

AC Schnitzer BMW X6 M

So you dropped somewhere north of $90,000 for your new 2011 BMW X6 M but want it to look a little more aggressive than it does so you can stand out from the crowd. Well, AC Schnitzer is here to help.

The BMW tuner is offering a bunch of carbon fiber modifications ranging from a front spoiler, rear roof spoiler, rear wing, and rear diffuser. You can also get extra design elements for the front skirt and a chromed front grille, carbon Bonnet Vents (Buick style) with a chromed centre web. AC Schnitzer is also offering its Bonnet Top of made of carbon with a plexiglas panoramic window through which you can see your engine.

When it comes to wheels for your X6 M, AC Schnitzer is offering its long range of shoes ranging from 20-inches to 23-inches.

AC Schnitzer says that it is currently working on performance upgrades with delimiting the Vmax and a sports exhaust and will provide more details on that soon.

Click through for the press release and the high-res image gallery.

AC Schnitzer BMW X6 M:

Press Release:

Powerful and sporting:
The X6 M by AC Schnitzer with “Motorsport Genes”

Pure dynamism with powerful lines – unmistakeably the “motorsport gene”: evident at first sight in the BMW X6 M. And the X6 M by AC Schnitzer is even more powerful and sporting.

The Aachen-based tuning specialist is currently working on a performance upgrade which, in combination with delimiting the Vmax and a sports exhaust, will bring a further perceptible increase in the power of the X6 M. And if that’s not enough, you can also opt for the carbon fibre AC Schnitzer engine styling. Even without a performance upgrade, the acoustic and visual attraction will be enhanced by the AC Schnitzer sports rear silencer with two chromed “Sports Trim” tailpipe trims in right/left combination.

AC Schnitzer not only gives the BMW X6 M more power, but also a tailored race outfit of carbon. Front spoiler, rear roof spoiler, rear wing, rear diffuser and design elements for the front skirt and chromed front grille give the X6 M an impressive and muscular appearance. As an option, the carbon Bonnet Vents with chromed centre web complete the sporting look.

A real highlight is the new AC Schnitzer Bonnet Top of carbon with plexiglas panoramic window through which the engine is permanently visible.

For the X6 M – 1.98 metres wide as standard – AC Schnitzer has adapted the FALCON wheel arch extensions so that the BMW body gains an extra 40 mm width each side.

The already sporting interior ambience of the BMW X6 M has been refined further in the Aachen works. The instrument panel conversion – speedo and rev counter with AC Schnitzer logo, white dials, red pointers and red lighting – gives the X6 M a speedometer display up to 360 km/h. The carbon interior trim and the AC Schnitzer steering wheel spokes in new “black Exclusiv” design and the AC Schnitzer aluminium cover for the i-Drive system controller, aluminium footrest and pedal set, and velour foot mats, round off the interior package.

The wheelarches of the X6 M by AC Schnitzer can be filled with 20″, 22″ or imposing 23″ AC Schnitzer wheels in Type IV BiColor, Type VII silver, black or BiColor, or the AC Schnitzer forged alloys Type V or forged racing rims Type VIII BiColor. In combination with the 275, 315, 295 or 335 tyres, it’s easy for the driver in the cockpit to transfer the engine power to the track, and at the same time provide external evidence of the “motorsport gene” of the X6 M by AC Schnitzer even when stationary.Overview for Press Release No. 05/2010

X6 M by AC Schnitzer (E71)

Basic car: BMW X6 M

Engine: AC Schnitzer carbon engine styling optic

Exhaust: AC Schnitzer sports rear silencer with chromed “Sports Trim”
tailtrims (left / right)

Aerodynamics:

AC Schnitzer front spoiler, carbon
AC Schnitzer design elements for front skirt, carbon
AC Schnitzer front grille, chromed
AC Schnitzer bonnet top, carbon with acrylic glass panorama window
AC Schnitzer bonnet vents, carbon
AC Schnitzer chromed centre bar for bonnet vents
AC Schnitzer wheel arch extensions
AC Schnitzer rear roof wing, carbon
AC Schnitzer rear wing, carbon
AC Schnitzer rear diffuser, carbon

Interior:

AC Schnitzer instrument displays
speedometer conversion up to 360km/h, rev counter both with
AC Schnitzer Logo on tachometer, white background – black disposed,
red needles, red illuminated
AC Schnitzer carbon interior “black Exclusiv”
AC Schnitzer steering wheel insert, carbon “black Exclusiv”
AC Schnitzer carbon cover for automatic gear knob
AC Schnitzer aluminium cover for i-Drive system controller
AC Schnitzer aluminium foot rest and pedal set
AC Schnitzer velours floor mats

Wheel/Tyre sets

FALCON: AC Schnitzer Lightweight Forged Wheels Type V
front: 10,0J x 22″ offset 22 with tyres 295/30 R 22
rear: 10,0J x 22″ offset -10 with tyres 335/25 R 22

AC Schnitzer Wheels Type VII silver, black and BiColor
front: 10,0J x 22″ offset 20 with tyres 295/30 R 22
rear: 11,5J x 22″ offset -10 with tyres 335/25 R 22

AC Schnitzer Racing Forged Wheels Type VIII BiColor
front: 10,0J x 22″ offset 20,5 with tyres 295/30 R 22
rear: 11,5J x 22″ offset -10 with tyres 335/25 R 22
front: 11,0J x 23″ offset 30 with tyres 315/25 R 23
rear: 12,0J x 23″ offset -12 with tyres 315/25 R 23

Wheel/Tyre sets: AC Schnitzer Wheels Type IV BiColor
front: 10,0J x 20″ offset 34 with tyres 275/40 R 20
rear: 10,0J x 20″ offset 15 with tyres 275/40 R 20
front: 10,0J x 20″ offset 34 with tyres 275/40 R 20
rear: 11,5J x 20″ offset 22 with tyres 315/35 R 20

AC Schnitzer Wheels Type VII silver, black and BiColor
front: 10,0J x 22″ offset 30 with tyres 295/30 R 22
rear: 10,0J x 22″ offset 5 with tyres 295/30 R 22
front: 10,0J x 22″ offset 30 with tyres 295/30 R 22
rear: 11,5J x 22″ offset 23 with tyres 335/25 R 22
AC Schnitzer Lighweight Forged Wheels Type V
front: 10,0J x 22″ offset 31 with tyres 295/30 R 22
rear: 10,0J x 22″ offset 3 with tyres 295/30 R 22
front: 10,0J x 22″ offset 31 with tyres 295/30 R 22
rear: 11,5J x 22″ offset 23 with tyres 335/25 R 22

AC Schnitzer Racing Forged Wheels Type VIII BiColor
front: 10,0J x 22″ offset 29,5 with tyres 295/30 R 22
rear: 10,0J x 22″ offset 8,5 with tyres 295/30 R 22
front: 10,0J x 22″ offset 29,5 with tyres 295/30 R 22
rear: 11,5J x 22″ offset 23 with tyres 335/25 R 22
front: 11,0J x 23″ offset 35,5 with tyres 315/25 R 23
rear: 12,0J x 23″ offset 33,5 with tyres 315/25 R 23

- By: Kap Shah

Tuner AC Schnitzer has gotten its hands on the latest model from BMW – the 5-Series Gran Turismo. Besides a bunch of visual and aerodynamical upgrades that make the 5-Series Gran Turismo look like it’s on steroids, AC Schnitzer upgraded the 245-hp of the 6-cylinder 530d to 286-hp.

The 5-Series GT by AC Schnitzer is available with Type IV in 19-inch or the BiColor Version in 19-inch and 20-inch. Also available are the AC Schnitzer wheels Type VII in silver and BiColor in 22-inch and the alloy forged wheels in Type V in 20-inch and 22-inch. If that’s not enough wheel for you, Schnitzer is also offering Type VIII rims in 19-inch or the racing forged alloys Type VIII in 22-inch.

Hit the jump for the press release for more details and the high-res image gallery.

BMW 5-Series GT by AC Schnitzer:

Press Release:

Comfort meets Power: Grand Tour with the 5-series GT by AC Schnitzer

“Gran Turismo” means “Grand Tour”, and this is the principle behind the 5-series GT by AC Schnitzer. The performance upgrade from 245 to 286 HP for the six-cylinder 530d already gives the standard car more pulling power and racing flair, which is demonstrated externally by the AC Schnitzer engine styling with capacity logo.

Yet the 5-series GT by AC Schnitzer doesn’t just bring a gleam to the eyes of BMW fans, but acoustically it delivers what the aesthetics promise at first glance. The AC Schnitzer twin sports rear silencer is the ideal tuning product for drivers with an appreciation of engine sound, to whom design elements such as the chromed “Sports Trim” tailpipe trims and the chromed “Racing” tailpipe trim are equally important.

Impressive comfort in driving behaviour, even on dynamic driving on twisty roads, is achieved by the AC Schnitzer suspension spring set. The tuning by the Aachen specialists makes the 5-series GT convincing in every speed range thanks to its superb agility. Two tonnes of unladen weight are irrelevant when the car is glued to the tarmac by the AC Schnitzer front and rear spoilers. Bonnet Vents with chromed centre web combine individual design with sophisticated engineering. The side lines are subtly emphasised by the AC Schnitzer side skirts, and the flowing dynamics of the coupé-like roof line are further enhanced by the AC Schnitzer rear skirt.

The comfort of the Gran Turismo took priority in the fundamental architecture of the BMW 5-series GT. So the specialists at AC Schnitzer completed the stylish elegance of the interior with a cover for the i-Drive System Controller, foot rest and pedal set in aluminium. Behind the frameless doors, velours footmats and boot mat welcome the driver.

To enjoy a “Grand Tour”, the passengers must be well supported, so the silver AC Schnitzer wheels Type IV in 19″ or the BiColor Version in 19″ and 20″ provide the perfect conditions technically and visually for an extraordinary trip. With the AC Schnitzer wheels Type VII in silver and BiColor in 22″ and the alloy forged wheels in Type V in 20″ and 22″, the drive is even more firmly planted. Another ideal choice is the brand-new Type VIII rims in 19″ or the racing forged alloys Type VIII in 22″. The new wheel with its double spokes in BiColor Finish is an evolution of the well-known Type VI wheel. All wheels are available with suitable tyres.

Driving comfort and performance at the highest level – that’s the promise from the 5-series GT by AC Schnitzer – a promise which is guaranteed to be kept on the next “Grand Tour”.

- By: Kap Shah

The 2010 Geneva Motor Show is one auto show that even popular German tuners like to attend to show off their latest creations. AC Schnitzer will be on hand showing an extensive modification range for the new BMW X1 and rather than just offering some visual upgrades, Schnitzer is also offering a nice chunk of power upgrades.

The BMW X1 xDrive23d has been upgraded from 204-hp to 240-hp. The 2.0 d and 1.8 d engines also feature Common Rail injection and a turbocharger, and with the AC Schnitzer tuning package they can make 210 and 171-hp respectively. AC Schnitzer says that performance upgrades are available for both the sDrive and xDrive versions, however, the company didn’t provide any numbers.

As for visual upgrades, AC Schnitzer offers a bunch of modifications to make the X1 look aggressive, but we could’ve done without the hood nostrils.

Click through for the press release and the high-res image gallery.

AC Schnitzer BMW X1:

Press Release:

New Standards in Driving Pleasure
Quality and Emotion: The BMW X1 by AC Schnitzer

The X1 is the latest welcome addition to the compact vehicles segment, and brings the characteristic BMW “Driving Pleasure” to this class. With an extensive range for the BMW X1, the AC Schnitzer version now celebrates its world premiere at the Geneva Motor Show 2010.

The BMW X1 is available with choice of a 6-cylinder petrol engine and three 4-cylinder diesel power plants. Here again, AC Schnitzer is setting totally new standards for driving pleasure in the premium compact segment. The BMW X1 xDrive23d has been upgraded from a 150 kW/204 HP diesel engine with BMW TwinPower Turbo and Common Rail injection to 240 HP. The 2.0 d and 1.8 d units in the BMW X1 also feature Common Rail injection and a turbocharger, and with the AC Schnitzer tuning package achieve 210 and 171 HP respectively. Naturally, the power upgrades are available for both the sDrive and xDrive versions. The AC Schnitzer engine styling including capacity logo is available for vehicles with and without performance upgrade.

Acoustically, the sporting driving experience is enhanced by the AC Schnitzer sports rear silencer for the petrol X1 xDrive 28i (in development). Visual elegance is provided by the chromed “Racing” tailpipe trim which is also available for all other models.

The superb driving behaviour of the BMW X1 with its focus on agility, precision and handling is the direct result of the sophisticated suspension technology used on the extremely solid body structure. AC Schnitzer has built on this and with its suspension spring kit and an aluminium strut brace, ensures the perfect balance between sporting performance and driving comfort.

The AC Schnitzer aerodynamics package is far more than mere decoration, although it harmonises effectively in the overall concept. The front spoiler and rear skirt extension, in combination with the rear roof spoiler, improve downforce and ensure additional ground adhesion. Engine bay venting is optimised by the AC Schnitzer Bonnet Vents. These are enhanced further with chromed centre webs available as an option. In aesthetic terms, the AC Schnitzer aerodynamic conversion emphasises the expressive styling and reveals to the observer on first glance the universal sporting ambitions of the X1 by AC Schnitzer.

Impressive design elements also lend a sporting and youthful note to the interior of the BMW X1 by AC Schnitzer. These elements include silver “Exclusiv” carbon interior trim, illuminated leather gear knob, aluminium gear knobs with or without digital gear display, “Black Line” aluminium cover for the i-Drive system controller, aluminium handbrake handle and pedal set, foot rests and velours foot mats.

The finishing touch comes from a set of attractive wheels, so the X1 retains its stylish appearance not only on twisty or changing terrain, but also outside a fashionable cafe. An ideal choice is the brand-new Type VIII wheel in 19″. The new wheel with its 5 double spokes in BiColor Finish is an evolution of the well-known Type VI wheel, and complements perfectly the styling language of the BMW X1. AC Schnitzer Type IV wheels in silver or in BiColor in 18, 19 or 20 inch, together with the Type VI rim in 18″, complete the range available for the BMW X1.

- By: Kap Shah

The Nardo test-track in Southern Italy should be renamed as AC Schnitzer’s Nardo Track. After setting two records, one in 2006 with the TENSION and one in 2007 with the GP3.10, AC Schnitzer recently broke another record with its new ACS3 3.5d Coupe.

AC Schnitzer says that the ACS3 3.5d posted a top speed of 179.4 mph, breaking the world record from 2006 for the fastest road-legal diesel car by over 5.4 mph.

AC Schnitzer didn’t feel like providing many details on the modifications of the car but the company’s website says that the ACS3 3.5d can be tuned to produce a total 310-hp.

Click through for the press release and the high-res gallery.

AC Schnitzer ACS3 3.5d Coupe:

Press Release:

AC Schnitzer ACS3 3.5d Coupé reaches 288.7 km/h in Nardò

Third World Record in Succession: AC Schnitzer builds fastest diesel car

It’s a hat-trick: for the third time, AC Schnitzer has gone to Nardò in southern Italy and brought home a third world record for Aachen.

The legendary high-speed circuit has already been the setting for so many records. Once a year in southern Italy, under the aegis of “CONTINENTAL AG” and in collaboration with the editors of “AUTO BILD sportscars”, the ‘creme de la crème’ of vehicle tuners go head to head – this year on 18th and 19th October 2009.

The AC Schnitzer ACS3 3.5d Coupé succeeded in breaking the world record from 2006 for the fastest road-legal diesel car by over 8.7 km/h.

288.7 km/h was the figure on the display of the GPS speedometer system on the 13 km long high-speed circuit – which is in principle a giant oversized circle – after the fast lap of the AC Schnitzer ACS3 3.5d Coupé.

After the records from 2006 with the TENSION as the fastest road-legal BMW, the world record still held by the GP3.10 GAS POWERED from 2007 for gas-powered vehicles, the ACS3 3.5d Coupé (based on the BMW 335d) has continued the success story.

Naturally the power upgrade which took the latest world record holder to success is part of the extensive AC Schnitzer special accessory range and available for all vehicles based on the 3.5d engine. It is TÃV-approved and available from BMW dealers.

Another impressive performance in Nardò came from the AC Schnitzer ACS4 3.5 turbo (based on the BMW Z4 sdrive 35i). At 303.1 km/h, this was not a new world, but such a high speed is almost unheard of for a Roadster. The Z4 was also running with the commercial version of the AC Schnitzer performance upgrade for 3.5i engines. Quickly, as we found out.

- By: Kap Shah

Every year, the Association of German Car Tuners (known as VDAT), launches a special concept car. This year, the association decided to go with a “TUNE IT! SAFE!” theme supported by the Police and the Federal Ministry for Transport, Building and Road Development. BMW provided a 123d Coupe for the project and most of the tuning was provided by AC Schnitzer.

AC Schnitzer added its ACS1 2.3d upgrade, which gives the BMW 123d a total of 241-hp and 354 lb-ft of torque. Mated to a 6-speed automatic transmission the car can go from 0-62 mph in 6.7 seconds.

Visually, AC Schnitzer added a body kit that includes two-piece, front spoiler, rear skirt insert, rear wing and rear roof spoiler, LEDayFlex daytime running lights from Hella and sports mirrors. AC Schnitzer also added its new Type IV BiColor wheels that are wrapped in Hankook tires.

Check out the press release and high-res image gallery after the jump.

AC Schnitzer BMW 123d VDAT Police Package:

Press Release:

Safe, Serious Tuning ““ A Mission for the Company and the Customer

The fifth concept car of the “TUNE IT! SAFE!” VDAT initiative has been designed mainly by BMW tuning specialist AC Schnitzer

“Only serious, safe tuning will bring the hoped-for driving pleasure!” Under this motto, the Association of German Car Tuners (VDAT) every year launches a special concept car. In 2010, BMW AG is providing a BMW 123d Coupé for the Association’s “TUNE IT! SAFE!” initiative, which is also supported by the Police and the Federal Ministry for Transport, Building and Road Development. Most of the vehicle accessory equipment has been supplied by Aachen-based BMW tuning specialist AC Schnitzer.

As in the last four years, a police vehicle has been professional converted as part of the promotion. The AC Schnitzer “ACS1 2.3d”, based on the BMW 123d Coupé, shows that safe tuning is far from boring. VDAT-member AC Schnitzer has upgraded the 2.3 D engine to 241 HP (177 kW) and 480 Nm. The police car with 6-speed automatic transmission now accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 6.7 seconds, so would acquit itself well even in the fastest pursuit. The latest AC Schnitzer wheels Type IV BiColor are fitted with tyres from TUNE IT! SAFE! main sponsor Hankook. The low, safe road position is achieved with the sports suspension from the Aachen-based specialist with 30 mm lowering. The bodystyling kit consists of two-piece front spoiler, rear skirt insert, rear wing and rear roof spoiler. Good visibility is ensured by the “LEDayFlex” modern daytime running lights from Hella, and optimum rearward vision by the AC Schnitzer “New Generation” sports mirrors.

In the interior, the guardians of the law could enjoy leather racing bucket seats with AC Schnitzer logo and silver genuine carbon fibre trim on the dashboard, centre console, door handles and steering wheel, which are perfectly complemented by the aluminium pedals and aluminium foot rests. A further highlight is the G-force indicator, which measures and displays the centrifugal forces inside the car.

The concept car impressively demonstrates large parts of the tuning accessory range from AC Schnitzer. To give the BMW the essential, authentic look of a “real” police car, Foliatec supplied the original stickering and Hella the flashing lights. Even the police could – and would like to – drive the converted vehicle in public road traffic. To their regret however, the concept car will not be brought into use and is not available in this complex form. Nonetheless, it makes an important contribution towards achieving the aim of the initiative: to combat illegal, unsafe tuning and counterfeiting. All AC Schnitzer conversions are however available commercially and are of course TÃV-approved.

The AC Schnitzer “ACS1 2.3d Coupé” will be on display for the first time at the Essen Motor Show on VDAT Stand No. 406 in Hall 10 from 28 November to 6 December 2009. “Serious and safe tuning is not only a company philosophy, but it is also our mission”, emphasises Rainer Vogel, Managing Director of AC Schnitzer. And you can take this literally: Safe tuning with components from a reputable manufacturer not only brings the desired driving pleasure, but can even be lifesaving.

- By: Kap Shah

AC Schnitzer has just unveiled their new modifications package for the new 2009 Mini Cooper R57 Convertible.

Visually, Schnitzer added a new front spoiler, a new rear skirt, various decals, chrome sports exhaust system, and a variety of wheel and tire combinations. Inside, AC Schnitzer is offering a set of aluminum pedals, velour floor mats and a aluminum gear knob.

Performance wise, Schnitzer is offering an upgrade for the Mini Cooper Convertible S that takes output up from 175-hp to 226-hp. Other performance enhancing features include a limited slip differential, an aluminum strut brace, and a height adjustable sports suspension.

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AC Schnitzer 2009 Mini Cooper S Convertible:

- By: The Daily Auto Editor

It’s not like the new 2009 BMW 7-Series needs any more cosmetic touches to make its presence on the road known – but a couple of modifications here and there will give you something to set yourself apart from all the other luxury sedans on the road.

AC Schnitzer has unveiled a body kit for the 2009 BMW 7-Series that gives the luxury sedan very subtle changes emphasizing its sporty characteristics. The kit includes a new front lip, new side skirts and AC Schnitzer tailpipes which consist of two exhaust channels in trapezoid trim. Between the exhaust is a rear spoiler that highlights the rear of the new 7-Series along with the subtle boot and rear roof spoiler.

AC Schnitzer also added a set of Type V 22-inch alloy wheels.

Make the jump to see the high-res image gallery.

AC Schnitzer 2009 BMW 7-Series:

AC Schnitzer will be holding the world premiere of its new BMW X6 Falcon at the 2008 SEMA Auto Show. Not only did AC Schnitzer give the X6 more power, but it made it more aggressive and muscular with striking wing extensions the X6 is 70mm wider at the front axle and 80mm wider at the rear.

Other visual enhancements include a new front spoiler, rear skirt, rear spoiler, edge frame, bonnet vents and racing wheels Type VII 22 inches, silver or black. On the inside, AC Schnitzer added an EVO 3-spoke sports steering wheel, carbon fiber trims, aluminum pedals and foot rest, velour floor mats and an aluminum cover for the iDrive.

As for power upgrades AC Schnitzer stuck to providing more performance to the X6 diesel variants. The BMW X6 3.0dX now produces 272-hp, up from 235-hp and the X6 3.5dX produces 310-hp, up from 286-hp.

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AC Schnitzer BMW X6 Falcon:

“The sun shines, the wind’s in your hair and the engine note in your ears: almost no other vehicle on the road evokes such untrammelled emotions.” That’s how AC Schnitzer describes the 2008 BMW M3 Convertible. The tuning firm today released its own package for the new M3 Convertible that will eventually let so much wind in your hair that you’ll go bald and an engine sound that will make you go deaf.

So far AC Schnitzer engineers have yet to mess around with the 420-hp V8 but will get around to it at a later date. For now they through in a AC Schnitzer sports rear silencer with chromed tailpipes in ‘Racing’ design.

Visually and in order to increase aerodynamics, AC Schnitzer has added a new front skirt with rectangular chromed grille inserts, a carbon lip spoiler, its own hood vents and a new side skirt which emphasizes the wheelarches.

AC Schnitzer also added its own touch to the interior and gave the 2008 M3 Convertible 20-inch Type VI silver wheels with a black finish.

AC Schnitzer AC3 based on the 2008 BMW M3: