AC Schnitzer ACZ4 5.0d, German madness

AC Schnitzer is one of the most respected and recognised tuners in the world today.

On this occasion, the German tuner has gone all out, presenting — in the form of a one-off prototype — a model that is, to say the least, surprising.

Dubbed ACZ4 5.0d, it is based on a Z4, the small two-seater roadster from BMW currently in its 3rd generation, available with a wide range of 4- and 6-cylinder petrol engines. The technical basis for this prototype was a Z4 sDrive23i, whose appearance was first modified to give it an aggressiveness that many of BMW’s ///M models would envy.

The ACZ4 5.0d has a very sporty look thanks to the various spoilers running along its bodywork, complemented by additional air intakes, a specific exhaust system with a central double outlet, and 19″ forged alloy wheels painted orange. Inside, the changes translate into leather-trimmed competition bucket seats, while the trim has also been painted in that characteristic orange, matching the exterior details.

Nevertheless, although the appearance has been thoroughly modified, the most significant differences lie under the bonnet. As the car’s name suggests, the 2.5-litre six-cylinder petrol engine has been removed and replaced with a 3-litre diesel unit, supercharged by three turbos. It is the same engine found in other models of the brand, such as the BMW M550d, except that on this occasion it has been slightly reworked to raise its output to 430 CV and 850 Nm. Combined with an 8-speed automatic gearbox, it allows the car to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 4.5 seconds, with a top speed exceeding 300 km/h.

In addition, a limited-slip differential from the E92 M3 has been fitted to the rear axle, which allows all the power to be put down to the road with minimal loss of traction, notably improving handling. Although the ACZ4 5.0d is not for sale, company representatives have stated that, in its current configuration, the vehicle would have an approximate price of €115,000.

Source | AC Schnitzer