AC Schnitzer-tuned BMW 8 Series – 600 hp, 850 Nm!

Famous German aftermarket tuning company AC Schnitzer has released its first design study of the G15 BMW 8 Series Coupe and G14 BMW 8 Series Convertible. Both models will make their public debut at the Essen Motor Show in Germany next week.

Let’s start off with the oily bits. AC Schnitzer has planned a performance upgrade for the 850i xDrive (4.4 litre twin-turbo V8), which bumps output from the standard 530 hp/750 Nm up to 600 hp and 850 Nm of torque, representing an increase of 70 hp and 100 Nm of torque.

The 840d xDrive with the 3.0 litre inline-six turbodiesel also gets a power upgrade – the standard 320 hp and 680 Nm output will be increased to 380 hp and 780 Nm of torque. There’s no mention how much quicker the tuned versions are compared to factory models, but the standard 850i xDrive and 840d xDrive Coupe manage the century sprint in 3.7 seconds and 4.9 seconds (3.9s and 5.2s for the Convertible) respectively. Of course, all performance upgrades are warranted by AC Schnitzer.

Other hardware upgrades include a new exhaust muffler that’s currently being developed. The tuner said it ensures better and more direct engine response and sound optimisation, and it’s visually finished by a quartet of “Carbon Sport” exhaust exits, each measuring at 105 mm diameter.

There’s also a suspension spring kit which lowers the car’s centre of gravity by up to 25 mm at the front and 15 mm at the rear. This provide high residual spring travel and maintains driving comfort as well. A combination of AC3 lightweight forged wheels and AC1 light alloy rims can be had as well, measuring 20-inches up front and 21-inches at the back. This is said to improve driving dynamics and handling.

Design-wise, both Coupe and Cabriolet models get enhanced aerodynamics with higher maximum downforce. All additional aero components are currently made using fibreglass, but will be upgraded to super lightweight carbon composite in later stages.

The front gets a carbon front spoiler with matching splitters and canards, as well as carbon covers for the air breathers. The bonnet vents and side skirts are also made of carbon, though the former are optimised to improve engine ventilation.

At the back, the most evident addition is the “racing” rear wing that’s complemented with a carbon rear diffuser (with or without integrated brake light) that aids downforce. Inside, there are aluminium accessories to complete upgrade kit, and this includes aluminium shifting paddles, a pedal set with matching foot rest and the key holder.

The entire upgrade kit will only be officially available sometime next year. So, what do you think of this? Have the folks at AC Schnitzer gone too far, or is the racey look tickling your fancy? Share with us your thoughts in the comments, below.

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