Monday, March 1, 2010

AC Schnitzer Tries to Sport Up the New BMW 5-Series Gran Turismo

The new BMW 5-Series GT a.k.a. the Gran Turismo hasn't received the most flattering reviews for its looks from the press and bimmer fans alike, but famed German tuner AC Schnizter is attempting to change all that with the release of a new sport package that contains both cosmetic and mechanical goodies for the Bavarian automaker's luxury...

BMW 5-Series GT by AC Schnitzer

When it comes to building tuning programs for BMW cars, you won’t find a tuning house that’s more capable than AC Schnitzer. The famed German tuner has done some sort of tuning package for a lot of BMWs in the past and with the recent release of the BMW 5-Series GT, it was only a matter of time before AC Schnitzer began working on a program for 5-Series GT.

And as expected, the German tuner has once again delivered on latest project: a tuning program for the new BMW 5-Series GT. The tuning kit for the 5-Series GT is based on the six-cylinder 530d, which spikes the engine’s total output from the standard 245 horsepower to 286 horsepower.

Among the notable features of AC Schnitzer’s exterior package for the 5-Series GT includes a twin sports rear silencer, chromed "Sports Trim“ tailpipe trims and chromed "Racing" tailpipe trim, front and rear spoilers, bonnet Vents with chromed center web, side skirts, and 19" or 20" alloy forged wheels.

AC Schnitzer decks out the BMW 5 Series GT

BMW 5 Series GT by AC Schnitzer


The Schnitzer boys have waved wands over the BMW 530d GT, giving it a little more power and a lot more cosmetics. Under the hood is a modest power bump from 245 horsepower to 286, but torque numbers have been omitted so we're supposing there's no change there. If that is indeed the case, color us a wee bit surprised that no more twist was extracted from the torque-tastic oil-burner from Bavaria.
Outside and inside, though, changes abound: an AC Schnitzer engine cover and hood vents, skirts and spoilers everywhere, new rear silencer and chrome trim, aluminum pedals and footrest, plus AC-branded velours for the floor mats and trunk. And to keep you from ridin' dirty there's an AC Schnitzer spring kit and the firm's trademark wheels. Follow the jump for the complete specs, and take in the full view in the gallery of high-res photos below.

BMW gets cute, takes dig at Audi in the classroom

Good, we were hoping BMW would answer the latest challenge from Audi in the online battle of boast. Audi started up again the dormant war of words between these two German automakers a couple weeks ago by patting itself on the back for winning three Car and Driver comparisons in a row, and now BMW is striking back by bragging about its mixture of efficiency and vehicle dynamics sans compromises.
Hit the jump to watch the 1:25 video for yourself. Unfortunately, Team Motor Werks didn't get to throwing down with Audi until the very end of the spot, which takes place in an elementary school classroom. And even when the guys and gals at BMW took their swing, we're afraid it just grazes the four-ringed chin of its luxury car rival. Let us know which automaker you think scored the more direct blow by chiming in on the post-jump comments.
[Source: YouTube]

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