AC Schnitzer gives the BMW M5 a boost
Starting with the engine, the German tuning firm has managed to extract a few more horses from the car's 4.4 l twin-turbocharged hybrid V8 — 596kW, up from 535kW. This increase is due in part to a fruitier-sounding, freer-flowing AC Schnitzer stainless steel exhaust system, which features four 110mm tailpipes finished in racy 'carbon sport'.
A special suspension spring kit lowers the ride height by about 20mm, while a full set of 21-inch AC Schnitzer AC6 lightweight forged wheels (with a Y-spoke design) help slice unsprung mass for sharper handling at the limit. Available in natural aluminium or gloss black, the wheels are shod with 285/35 tyres at the front and 295/35 at the rear. For those who prefer to keep the standard rims for a more under-the-radar look, AC Schnitzer offers aluminium wheel spacers (7mm per side) to better fill out the arches.
The exterior has also been amped up with an aggressive-looking aerodynamic package that's said to improve high-speed stability and balance. It consists of a front splitter, front side wings, side skirts, roof spoiler or wing (depending on the model), rear spoiler (saloon only), a three-piece rear diffuser and unique design elements for the front fenders.
Image: Supplied
Interior upgrades are more subtle, including aluminium pedals, a matching footrest, a key holder and an aluminium cover for the iDrive controller.
AC Schnitzer says all these components are in development. Availability, delivery dates and pricing will be announced soon.
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