5 made better by AC Schnitzer

Sometimes I envy the people involved in the Public Relations and Advertising processes of the automotive world, especially those at BMW. Not only because of the fact that their job gives them the chance to sample the pretty cool Bavarian merchandise, but because they always seem inspired. Read a press release or watch an advert, and you’ll be left wondering how such apt phrases were conceived – for example “Redefining innovation” or “Dynamics in its most beautiful form” – it just sounds ineffably right.

The latter was used to describe the new 5 Series which, until recently, I thought was good enough in standard form. A viewing of the AC Schnitzer edition 5 changed my belief – it’s proof that when executed properly, modifications really can enhance the aesthetic appeal of a vehicle. The blurb on this occasion: “Dynamics in its most beautiful form – beyond the standard”.

The addition of these three words make sense when you look at it – rather than killing the inherent style of the 5-Series, the AC Schnitzer package renders subtle nip-tucks that refine the 5 and give it a sportier persona and ultimately makes a good product slightly better. At the front, all the salient BMW features are there: the large kidney shaped grilles, twin headlamps and prominent creases in the hood creating a muscular impression – made bolder by the bodykit comprising of an all chrome grille and front spoiler with larger ventilation ducts. Complementing the colour coded diffuser, some large rectangular looking tailpipes have been employed at the rear, a bit like the ones you would find on a standard BMW X5. And it isn’t just for show either, promising to enliven the aural experience during moments when the driver succumbs to the temptation of kicking down the right pedal. Performance enhancements ensure that an increase in power can be expected too, albeit nothing too drastic – the 530d for example sees a boost from 245HP to 286HP.

Apart from the liberal use of carbon fibre around the instrument and door panels, layout remains as it is on the normal 5 series. A reminder of AC Schnitzer’s DNA is on the steering wheel, in the form of a small logo surrounded by more carbon fibre trim. Aluminium has also been used for the pedals, footrests, gearknob and i-Drive controller, with plush velour for the mats rounding the package off.

Sublime road manners is a must for any Beemer. AC Schnitzer have designed a special spring kit which gives the 5 a sportier handling character, lowering the suspension by 25 millimetres – but also maintaining comfort for everyday use. As you would expect, footwear on the AC Schnitzer 5 is sport-orientated: it uses either 19 or 20-inch wheels, in silver or “BiColour”.Efficient braking is taken care of by an 8-pot fixed calliper system, with internally vented brake discs available in a range of designs. Garnishing the host of exterior modifications is an “AC Schnitzer” and engine capacity logo on the tailgate – denoting that this is no ordinary 5.

But sadly, the price of a new BMW 5 Series – even the most basic model – is a tad too dear for most. It seems that the people at AC Schnitzer have realised this, developing an iPhone application that allows those like myself (with derisory bank balances) to live out their BMW tuning fantasies vicariously. You can check it out here.

Brenwin Naidu
Photo Credit: AC Schnitzer