The BMW X3 by AC Schnitzer : Even more individual driving pleasure, unique and unmistakeable

2011 BMW X3 by AC Schnitzer

The new BMW X3, which has been available from dealers since autumn 2010, is uniquely versatile. Now BMW tuning specialist AC Schnitzer has developed an extensive range of
accessories to make the second generation SUV stand out even more.


Just the AC Schnitzer performance upgrade from 184 to 218 HP in the X3 xDrive20d ensures that the vehicle stands out from the crowd. And in the near future, the Aachen-based specialist will be offering a performance upgrade for the X3 xDrive30d too. With or without power upgrade, the engine bay styling with AC Schnitzer logo is available for all models.

Even at a standstill, the X3 by AC Schnitzer shows off its assets - and not only when the bonnet is open. For the 6-cylinder petrol models 2.8i and 3.5i, an AC Schnitzer sports exhaust made of stainless steel is currently in development. This improves response and provides that special sonorous sound. The chromed "Racing" tailpipe trim sets the finishing touch to the exhaust system. For purely visual enhancement, this tailpipe trim is also available as a stand-alone accessory for diesel variants.

Individualists want to fly high, and to ensure that the agile X3 by AC Schnitzer remains firmly planted on the ground, the Aachen engineers have come up with a suspension spring kit for the optimum combination of sports performance and driving comfort.

The aerodynamic kit for the new X3 includes a striking front spoiler, the rear roof spoiler and the AC Schnitzer protective film for the rear skirt.

The AC Schnitzer sports airbag steering wheel, currently in development, provides that sports car flair and safety in the interior. As well as the sports steering wheel, further unique "inner values" of the X3 by AC Schnitzer catch the eye. Sporting accents are set by the AC Schnitzer aluminium gear knobs in anodized silver/chrome or "Black Line“/chrome, or with digital gear display, and the "Black Line“ aluminium cover for the BMW-specific i-Drive system controller.

Further impressive design elements such as the AC Schnitzer aluminium pedal set, an illuminated leather gear knob, and the AC Schnitzer velours foot mats, make the fully fitted X3 totally unmistakeable.

Such a special appearance must include the right wheels and tyres. This was also the view of the Aachen-based tuning specialists, who have given the X3 with BiColor a choice of Type VIII forged racing rims in 22 inch, or Type VII racing rims in BiColor or silver in 22 inch. One-piece rims of Type VI (BiColor), Type VIII (BiColor) and Type IV (BiColor or Silver) are also available in sizes 18, 19 or 20 inch. Forged alloy wheels Type V in 20 inch are of course also part of the extensive range.

The AC Schnitzer range for the new BMW X3 leaves BMW fans with only the problem of choice, and thus extends the unique versatility of the vehicle with even more individual driving pleasure.

Images : The BMW X3 by AC Schnitzer

[Source : ACS]

The fastest MINI comes from Aachen : the AC Schnitzer Eagle

AC Schnitzer MINI Eagle

With a sensational lap time of 1:13.341 min., the new "AC Schnitzer Eagle" concept vehicle (based on John Cooper Works MINI) showed its competitors a clean pair of heels in a direct comparison around the Hockenheim Circuit.


In vehicle testing, one of the standard bases for assessment is the lap time on the world-famous Grand Prix Circuit in Hockenheim. The 260 HP AC Schnitzer Eagle has muscled its way into the big boys' league of thoroughbred sports cars with a lap time of 1:13.341 min.

In a direct comparison, the AC Schnitzer Eagle was able to leave its class rivals well behind. Only the very big names with a far more engine power on board, such as the X-Bow, M3 Kompressor, Mercedes AMG and Caterham were able to beat the "little rocket" AC Schnitzer Eagle based on the John Cooper Works MINI.

The successful principle behind the concept study (not for sale) is easy to explain: in the development of the AC Schnitzer Eagle, all areas of the vehicle were optimised by our technicians and engineers for "Efficient Performance".

The power of the standard engine was increased from 155 kW/211 HP to 191 kW/260 HP and in parallel, the entire exhaust system was replaced. At the same time the vehicle weight was reduced by 80 kg, which means that the AC Schnitzer Eagle gains a perceptible bonus in terms of agility and driving pleasure. The height-adjustable racing suspension and AC Schnitzer alloys Mi2 in 18" give the final touches both aesthetically and in driving dynamics.

The AC Schnitzer Eagle is a concept vehicle which was developed as a technology platform. Its value is € 62,000.00.

AC Schnitzer EAGLE - Technical Data :

Base vehicle: John Cooper Works MINI
Efficient Performance: Converted to EfficientDynamics AC Schnitzer performance upgrade

	AC Schnitzer EAGLE	MINI JCW
Power (kW/HP)	191 / 260	155 / 211
at speed (rpm)	5000	6000
Max. torque (Nm)	340	260 / 280*
at speed (rpm)	2950	1850-5600/2000-5100**
V max (km/h)	250	238
0 - 100 km/h (s)	5,8	6,5

* Overboost

• AC Schnitzer Motronic program
• AC Schnitzer turbo
• AC Schnitzer intercooler
• AC Schnitzer sports clutch
• AC Schnitzer limited slip differential
• AC Schnitzer lightweight ion battery

Exhaust :

• AC Schnitzer stainless steel exhaust system with racing catalyst

Gear selection :

• AC Schnitzer "Short Shift" Racing shorter gear selection

Suspension :

• AC Schnitzer racing suspension, height-adjustable
• AC Schnitzer special antiroll bars

Body :

• AC Schnitzer carbon bonnet
• AC Schnitzer carbon boot
• AC Schnitzer carbon rear diffuser
• AC Schnitzer carbon sports wings, left / right
• AC Schnitzer carbon doors
• AC Schnitzer macrolon panels
• AC Schnitzer special paintwork "Racing Grey", matt
• Carbon roof spoiler

Steering : AC Schnitzer sports steering wheel

Interior :

• AC Schnitzer roll cage
• AC Schnitzer carbon racing bucket seats with EAGLE Logo
• AC Schnitzer "Short Shift" gear knob
• AC Schnitzer aluminium foot rests and pedals
• AC Schnitzer "Black Line" handbrake handle
• AC Schnitzer foot mats, velours with EAGLE Logo

Wheels :

• AC Schnitzer Mi2 BiColor wheels
• 7.5J x 18" with tyres 225/35 ZR 18

Video : ACS Eagle showed its competitors a clean pair of heels in a direct comparison around the Hockenheim Circuit.

Images : AC Schnitzer MINI Eagle

[Source : AC SCHNITZER]

TUNE IT! SAFE! Police MINI E by AC Schnitzer, based on MINI R56

TUNE IT! SAFE! MINI E by AC Schnitzer

The TUNE IT! SAFE! initiative by the Verband Deutscher Automobil Tuner e.V. (VDAT) impressively shows the future of tuning with its sixth campaign vehicle - an electric MINI in Police Look. Every year since 2004, a special concept car has been presented which meets both the high demands of tuning fans and maximum safety standards.

The campaign, supported by the Federal Ministry of Transport, Building and Urban Development, shows that the yearning for individualisation can continue to be met in the future.

AC Schnitzer, more than almost any other tuning specialist for the MINI brand, stands for individuality and safety. Consequently, the Aachen-based company has largely taken responsibility for the MINI and provided a uniquely spectacular campaign vehicle. The MINI E in Police Look was presented for the first time at the Essen Motor Show 2010 and has since appeared as a symbolic vehicle at numerous shows and tuning events.

The BMW Group is the first manufacturer to apply the latest state of lithium ion technology in a totally electric powered vehicle. So the MINI E lives up to its name - "minimalism" - in terms of drive technology too, thanks to a totally emission-free vehicle. New drive systems have been equipped with complex elements, so the use of safe and reliable products is particularly important here. But there's no lack of sporting performance either, thanks to the tuning package from AC Schnitzer. The racing suspension takes the MINI perfectly through corners, and the front and rear skirts and bonnet vents both optimise road holding and enhance the styling of the concept car.

The "Police Look" is provided by the latest signalling system from Hella on the roof, and the blue paintwork by AC Schnitzer in conjunction with special stickering from Foliatec.

The Hankook tyres have been given an extra touch by the specialists at AC Schnitzer: in combination with the AC Schnitzer alloy wheels "MI 2" (7.5J x 18"), they transfer the 204 electric HP of the MINI safely to the road.

To enjoy unrestricted driving comfort while being prepared for every situation: this ambition is achieved by the high performance brake system from AC Schnitzer with 4-pot fixed calipers on the front axle. The slotted, internally vented brake discs respond promptly and with precision. At the same time, the high performance brake system is characterised by excellent deceleration values after sustained use, in extreme heat and in the pouring rain. The generously dimensioned discs at 328 x 28 millimetres energetically scrub off the speed with a stable pressure point even after the twentieth downhill hairpin.

AC Schnitzer also shows that safe driving can be combined with individual styling in its design of the interior equipment. The interior is decorated with a pedal set, foot rest and handbrake handle of aluminium. Here, as in all other areas, extracts from AC Schnitzer's wide product range are demonstrated. All the AC Schnitzer accessories are available immediately with TÜV certification, even though the MINI E is not yet available commercially but is well on the way to series production. This almost goes without saying for specialists who have long since made the safe future of tuning their corporate objective.

TUNE IT! SAFE! MINI E by AC Schnitzer

• Basic car : MINI E (R56)
• Engine : electric motor
• Performance : 204 HP (150 kW)
• Max. torque : 220 Nm
• Max. speed : 152 km/h (electronically limited) 0-100 km/h 8.5 seconds
• Energy consumption: approx. 15 kWh / 100 km
• Accumulator: Lithium-Ionen, 35 kWh, aircooled
• Charging time: 2.4 hours (230 V, 50 A), 3.8 hours (230 V, 32 A), 10.1 hours(230 V, 12 A)
• Cruising range: 240 km during test cycle FTP72 160-180 km during realistic conditions
• Suspension : AC Schnitzer racing suspension, height adjustable AC Schnitzer high performance brake system, front axle
• Aerodynamics:
  
• AC Schnitzer front skirt
• AC Schnitzer rear skirt
• AC Schnitzer bonnet vents
  
• Wheel/Tyre set: AC Schnitzer wheels Mi2 7.5J x 18" with tyres 225/35 ZR 18 (Hankook)
• Interior:
  
• AC Schnitzer aluminium handbrake handle
• AC Schnitzer aluminium pedals
• AC Schnitzer aluminium foot rest
• AC Schnitzer Fußmatten, Velours
  
• Police decor: FOLIATEC
• Car glas foil: FOLIATEC tinting foil Midnight / security foil SECURLUX
• Light-signal system: Hella RTK 7
• Tyres: HANKOOK Ventus S1 evo

Video : TUNE IT! SAFE! MINI E by AC Schnitzer

Images : TUNE IT! SAFE! MINI E by AC Schnitzer

[Source : AC SCHNITZER]