AC Schnitzer S6 Sport

Where "rebirth" of the BMW 6-series awakened deep emotions, the new BMW M6 is the embodiment of ultimate driving machine. The concept of combining two excellent cars in one model has already been successfully implemented by the BMW engineers in the M5. Now it's a question of adapting this new design line for the BMW M6.

To give the M6 a more powerful voice and at the same time optimise the response behaviour and gas throughput, the new fully stainless steel rear silencer system "Sports Trim" has been adapted accordingly for the M6.

The next step facing the engineers was to improve the driving dynamics. Thanks to a suspension spring kit which lowers the M6 by around 25 mm and hence lowers the centre of gravity - above all in conjunction with the front axle strut brace of aluminium and the special antiroll bar kit - perceptibly higher cornering speeds are possible.

Furthermore the M6 is fitted with racing rims and alloy wheels in various designs and sizes. As one-piece monoblock variants, Type III and Type IV wheels are available in sizes 8.5J x 19" and 9.5J x 19". Even more exclusive are the racing rims Type III and Type IV, which have been tested in 19" through 20" and in the top version even up to size 9.0J or 10.0J x 21".

The absolute highlight in the wheel range is the new "Forged Wheel". This alloy forged wheel with bicolour finish - i.e. partly polished, partly painted surface - achieves what appears contradictory in principle:

Reduction in weight with simultaneously maximum wheel diameters and widths. Our engineers and designers achieve this masterpiece with the "Forged Wheel", the design of which remains totally unique. The "Forged Wheel" is available for the BMW M6 in sizes 9.0J x 20" and 10.0J x 20" and is fitted with tyres sizes 245/35 R 20 on the front and 285/30 R 20 on the rear.The weight of the front wheel is just approx. 10 kg and the rear wheel 10.8 kg.

The high quality aerodynamic concept of the ACS5 Sport, apart from the rear roof spoiler, was also adapted for the ACS6 Sport. It consists of carbon front flippers which as an option can be linked to the front spoiler via an aluminium strut braces. The front is finished with the new chrome front grille which gives the BMW M6 a retro look and at the same time provides the high air requirements of the BMW V10 power plant.

The vehicle rear is enhanced with the one-piece rear spoiler and a carbon rear diffusor integrated into the rear. In combination, all aerodynamic aids ensure increased downforce on the BMW M6 to give a perceptibly more stable vehicle.

For the inside, a carbon interior is available in titanium "Exclusive", a 3-spoke sports airbag steering wheel or velours foot mats, together with the characteristic aluminium pedals and foot rests or the handbrake handle.

The new development of an aluminium cover for the controller of the BMW"i-Drive system" in the style of the Type IV wheel provides the finishing touch.

Aston Martin V8 Vantage Nurburgring 24

At an exclusive Aston Martin track day for V8 Vantage N24 customers held at the Nordschleife on 24 April, Aston Martin announced exciting plans for this year's ADAC 24-hour Nürburgring endurance race, to be held over 9 -10 June.

Following last year's success with a near production standard V8 Vantage, the Aston Martin team will be returning to the gruelling German circuit with an added presence, forming one half of an epic week of endurance racing for the marque.

Aston Martin Chief Executive Officer, Dr Ulrich Bez, said: "Aston Martin has always been associated with endurance racing and June will be a very exciting month starting with the Nürburgring 24-hour race followed by Le Mans a week later.

"Our motorsport strategy has always been to get many Aston Martins competing in races all over the world and this week in June will see that plan further realised."

Aston Martin will enter two N24 cars at the Nürburgring, which will be joined by a customer N24 team and a specially developed DBRS9, run by Phoenix Racing and Aston Martin Austria.

Head of Product Communications and Motorsport, David King commented: "Achieving 24th position from 220 entrants with a near standard car at the Nürburgring last year was a great way to demonstrate the capabilities of the V8 Vantage. This year we are delighted to offer our customers the opportunity to join us in the race."

Dirk Theimann, Team Manager Phoenix Racing said: "This race combines an electric atmosphere with probably the most demanding circuit in the world – there's nothing like it. The DBRS9 will add glamour and excitement for the spectators."

The DBRS9 will feature a vastly experienced driver line-up comprising three times
Le Mans winner Klaus Ludwig (Germany), Marcel Fässler (Switzerland), Robert Lechner (Austria) and Sascha Bert (Germany).

Aston Martin's own N24 Vantage will once again be piloted by Dr Ulrich Bez, Chris Porritt (Aston Martin Vehicle Dynamics Manager), Wolfgang Schuhbauer (Aston Martin Development Engineer) and Horst von Saurma (Editor of Sport Auto) and this year will feature Aston Martin's new Sportshift transmission, which was launched as an option on V8 Vantage earlier this year.

"Sportshift will lend itself perfectly to the driving conditions of the Nordschleife - with over 60 gear changes per lap – it will provide for faster shifts with less effort required by the driver," said Chris Porritt.

The Vantage N24 is based on a standard European specification production V8 Vantage, with modifications undertaken to prepare the car for the competitive racing environment. The car is fastidiously hand built in a dedicated facility within Aston Martin's Gaydon headquarters. Prices start at £78,720 plus local taxes and delivery.

The Aston Martin Racing DBRS9 is currently starring in the FIA GT3 series and several national GT championships. The DBRS9 is based on the DB9 road car, but shares many design features with the full GT1 specification DBR9. The DBRS9 starts at £175,000 plus options and taxes and is built to order at Aston Martin Racing's headquarters in Banbury, UK.

ABT Audi TT Abt TT-Sport VR6

In direct comparison the little brother of the Abt TT-R might not seem to be as spectacular as the 355-HP-racer but on the roads there is hardly a match. The Abt technicians have boosted the power of the established 2.0 Turbo FSI engine with up to an additional 100 HP. The most powerful version now performs mighty 300 HP (221 kW) and the Abt TT-Sport sprints to 100 km/h in just 5.5 seconds and shows a top speed of 256 km/h. The two-litre Turbo is also available with 270 HP or with the innovative, environment-friendly and fuel-saving iS-technology which brings about 240 HP (177 kW). The strongest motorization of the Abt TT-Sport is the VR6 3.2 with supercharger performing 310 HP (228 kW). In all versions the Coupé is extremely powerful and a sports car of the special kind as the basic beautiful design of the TT has been given the perfect touch. Abt Sportsline has developed special body styling parts that make the TT-Sport a real eye-catcher communicating power and dynamics. The lateral add-on parts continue the dynamical body language and create a harmonious transition to the extravagant rear with rear skirt inset and rear wing. In contrast to the filigree serial part, the Abt rear wing cannot be folded but is a part which is firmly integrated in the hatchback. The result is not only a racier design; it also brings about more downforce. The double twin-pip rear muffler is the finishing tough that harmonizes perfectly with the black rear skirt inset and diffuser. The area around the fog lights and single-frame grill is highlighted by the front skirt, giving the Abt TT-Sport a more aggressive and marked face. To round off the striking overall design, Abt Sportsline recommends the wheel models AR20 and SP1 in 20 inch or 19 inch as well as tyres sized 255/30 R20 and 255/35 R19.

Alpina B3 Biturbo

In ALPINA’s more than 40-year history of manufacturing automobiles, turbo-charged engines have consistently set enduring accents. Launched in 1989, the BMW ALPINA B10 Bi-Turbo is just one example of the cult status some of these automobiles achieved. In fact, ALPINA’s turbo-charging history began in 1978, based on the 5 Series and 6 Series of the day (E12 & E28 and E24). The new BMW ALPINA B3 Bi-Turbo continues this tradition for the first time on the basis of the BMW 3 Series with its world premiere at the 2007 Geneva Salon d’Automobile.

The heart of the B3 Bi-Turbo offers 265 kW (360 hp) at 5,500 - 6,000 revolutions per minute, as well as maximum torque of 500 Nm from 3,800 - 5,000 rpm. The B3 Bi-Turbo’s engine has a sporty engine’s willingness to rev to 7,000 rpm. Equally as present but usually reserved for diesel engines, there is vigorous torque from 1,500 rpm onwards. The result: a powerband broader than ever before experienced, guaranteeing both sporty and bullish driving dynamics.

Technically, this is all made possible due to the exceptional BMW base engine with injectors centrally located over the pistons – the state-of-the-art in direct injection technology. For more than a year, ALPINA engineers researched, developed and tested, both on the engine test bench and on the road. Ever refining the ALPINA engine map to leverage all the advantages offered by modern direct injection, the potential inherent in the BMW foundation was maximised. The use of extremely durable MAHLE pistons allows for a maximum boost of 1.1 bar with a 9.4:1 compression ratio. The result, peak specific values of 89 kW (121 hp) per litre and a maximum average pressure of 21 bar.

The allure of the new BMW ALPINA B3 Bi-Turbo is found in its V8 like performance, but with the advantages of a much lighter and noticeably thriftier 3.0-litre straight-six, a six with an aluminium block and twin-turbo charging. The smooth-running nature inherent in this engine concept is even more prominent when the engine is charged.

The BMW ALPINA B3 Bi-Turbo embodies pure driving enjoyment – whether cruising along or enjoying all 7,000 revs in each gear. The reason for the spontaneous responsiveness of the B3 Bi-Turbo is the ZF 6-speed sport automatic transmission with its very short shift sequences, which smoothly processes the power through the drivetrain without any uncomfortable interruption of forward momentum. The driver may also choose to shift manually at the wheel using SWITCH-TRONIC, which contributes in no small part to both the awe-inspiring performance numbers and the ability to save fuel in top gear. Frugality and driving excitement are therefore not contradictory in the B3 Bi-Turbo. Driven by high torque means using sixth gear on the Autobahn is more than sufficient in almost all situations.

The engine’s kick surprises even those in the know: 0-100 km/h in 4,9 seconds and thrust-like acceleration that keeps pulling all the way up to a top speed of 285 km/h. Indulgence without remorse: in spite of its stellar performance, the new BMW ALPINA B3 Bi-Turbo achieves excellent fuel economy in relation to its competitors. One of the B3 Bi-Turbo’s features that literally stands out are the four exhaust tips, with their catalytic converters contributing significantly to the achieving of low Euro4 emissions standards.

Immediately noticeable is the B3 Bi-Turbo’s light-footed, extremely agile handling. The secret lies in an ideal 50/50 weight balance between front and rear axles in combination with a ALPINA’s neutral and supple suspension. Augmenting this agility are light-weight 18” ALPINA CLASSIC wheels shod with conventional MICHELIN tyres, 225/40 ZR18 front and 255/35 ZR18 rear, with a conscious choice having been made not to use heavy Run-Flat tyres. 19” wheels offer an even higher level of potential lateral acceleration – in either DYNAMIC or CLASSIC design.

AC Schnitzer TENSION Street Version

After just 11 months of development and testing, we now present: the AC Schnitzer TENSION Street Version.

Naturally the "small brother" could not be a 1 : 1 copy of the TENSION concept car, which is a technology showcase and demonstrates what is technically feasible. In contrast, the TENSION Street Version had to incorporate suitability for everyday use with no loss of driving pleasure or reliability.

The focal point of the development work was adaptation of the breathtaking, costly aerodynamic conversion for series production.

Into the bonnet large air outlet edged in a chrome frame have been fitted so that the ventilation of the power plant is actively supported by sufficient cooling air flow.

Also the front skirt of the TENSION technology showcase has been completely adapted. It improves downforce on the front axle at high speeds. The air intake provides additional cooling for the engine and the front brakes. To provide sufficient ventilation for the power plant, the new front wing has integral air outlet openings which with their three chrome ribs and the indicators are reminiscent of a shark's mouth.

Consequently, air ducts have been worked into the side skirts to improve the cooling of the rear brakes.

The rear skirt houses not just the solid stainless steel twin exhaust system with chromed Sports Trim tailpipes but also a carbon diffuser. Another highlight at the rear is the boot lid which was originally reserved for the TENSION. But its modified styling gives the rear of the BMW 6-series the "Finishing Touch", so the new boot lid is now a firm part of the Street Version conversion. The bodystyling is completed by the sports mirrors and the extravagant two-colour paintwork.

Furthermore the TENSION Street Version is equipped with the latest wheel generation, the lightweight forged wheels Type V. On the front axle we use wheels in the size 9.0J x 20" and on the rear 10.0J x 20" and each front wheel weighs in at just approx. 10.8 kg!

The tyres to fit the wheels are size 245/35 ZR 20 on the front and 285/30 ZR 20 on the rear.

In conjunction with the wheel and tyre combination, a sports suspension has been developed which lowers the vehicle by around 25 - 30 mm. For the M6, a suspension spring kit is available.

Furthermore antiroll bar sets and strut braces can be fitted.


Depending on the basic model the TENSION Street Version can be equipped with the 5.1 l engine which can be used for all 6 series with N62 B44 oder N62 B48 TU engine.

Whereas the basic engine gives maximum torques of 450 or 490 Nm, the 5.1 l engine achieves 550 Nm. Naturally the performance has been optimised. It rises from 245 kW (333 HP) or 270 kW (367 HP) to a superb 302 kW (411 HP). At the same time, driving performance is enhanced. The top speed rises on average by around 35 km/h.

To achieve excellent deceleration figures we offer a high performance brake system for the M6. At the front axle, an 8-pot fixed caliper with perforated, vented brake discs and special pads ensures braking with ruthless efficiency.

The interior also has been modified: Starting with the carbon interior trim in titanium via the 3-spoke sports steering wheel in leather with carbon, the automatic selector lever in carbon, the new speedometer with a speed display up to 320 or 330 km/h, through to velours mats for footwell and boot with red embroidered logo.

The overall impression is completed with silver or black anodized aluminium accessories and the silver serial number on the black anodized aluminium placard on the centre console.

The AC Schnitzer TENSION Street Version is available in various levels. The conversion work is performed exclusively in Aachen, the USA and Japan.

BMW M3 AC Schnitzer S3 265 HP

The BMW 3-series coupé was only launched recently and already we offer a sports program for the latest member of the 3-series family. As for all current BMW models with 3.0d engine, we will shortly be offering a diesel performance upgrade for the 3-series coupé.

An additional control module provides 195 kW / 265 HP and a maximum torque of 550 Nm, so acceleration from 0 - 100 km/h takes just 6.1 instead of 6.6 seconds. In order to provide performance upgrades for the 335d and 335i with the new Twin Turbo technology, totally new developments are required. These are currently in the first stages of the test phase.

Despite the increase in power, the excellent driving behaviour, moderate fuel consumption and superb stability remain unchanged with both performance upgrades. Even without engine tuning, we recommend fitting the sports rear silencer which - depending on base model - is available as a single system or in right-left combination. For a purely aesthetic conversion, tailpipe trims are also available "solo" for some models. Our bodystyling components for the 3-series coupé stand out not only because of their sporting new design line, but also because of the perfect fit and ease of painting that are the result of the use of high quality PU-Rim. The new 3-series coupé has a strikingly contoured front spoiler that not only enhances the appearance with its sporting elegant design - at the same time it increases downforce on the front axle. For the rear axle, the aerodynamic highlights of a rear roof spoiler, a one-piece rear wing and a rear skirt with stylised diffuser profile are now in development. Another development for the coupé is the side skirts which give the side lines a more striking and elongated appearance. Optionally the side skirts can be highlighted with a chrome line set. The wheelarches of the 3-series coupé provide space for the Type II, Type III and Type IV alloy and racing rims from 18 to 20" diameter.

The suspension components have been specially set up for the use of the wheel and tyre combinations. Depending on personal preference, the owner of a 3-series coupé of model range E92 can choose between pure suspension springs and a complete, performance-comfort set sports suspension which lowers the BMW by around 25 mm. The suspension concept developed in extensive tests on the North Loop of the Nürburgring also includes the AC Schnitzer sports antiroll bars for the rear axle and aluminium strut braces for front and rear. For the interior of the coupé, an extensive range of high-quality accessories is available.

For example, the cockpit can be enhanced with an ergonomically designed airbag steering wheel. There is also a carbon steering wheel trim in silver Exclusive. Another highlight in the interior is the AC Schnitzer combi instrument with speedometer display up to 300 km/h. Footrests and pedals of aluminium create a more exclusive atmosphere in the cockpit together with the carbon interior trim in silver Exclusive. The aluminium gear knob, handbrake handle and cover for the BMW "i-Drive System" are available in silver or black anodized finish. Velours foot mats complete the range.

Chinese Audi A6L Mobile Film Theatre

Audi will be unveiling an innovative entertainment system for rear-seat passengers in the A6L at the Shanghai Auto Show (20 – 27 April 2007). Two 10.2-inch monitors are fitted on the backs of the front seats. The DVD player integrated in the centre armrest also includes connections for a games console, iPod and digital camera. Together with the TV tuner, the system transforms the luxury-class saloon into a mobile film theatre. Sound can be relayed via either the on-board speakers or headphones.

The system is available in the A6L, the long-wheelbase version of the Audi A6. It is built exclusively for the Chinese market and is frequently used as a chauffeur-driven saloon. Since its launch in 2005, the Audi A6L has set the standard among its competitors in terms of ride comfort and luxury, spaciousness and design. The chassis, designed specifically for the road conditions in China, offers outstanding suspension comfort, particularly in conjunction with adaptive air suspension, which is optional.

With a wheelbase that is ten centimetres longer than that of the A6 saloon, the A6L is unique. This extended wheelbase benefits rear-seat passengers, who can enjoy legroom that is exemplary in this vehicle segment.

Not least the range of equipment available for the Audi A6L demonstrates this model’s right to the claim “Vorsprung durch Technik”. The MMI operating concept enables straightforward operation of a wide array of functions such as a telephone and audio and navigation systems, not to mention a wealth of vehicle settings. Comfort features and standard equipment also cater for every possible demand.
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