( Worldcarfans ) - A homage to the BMW 2002 tii of the 1970s, AC Schnitzer have applied their own interpretation of the 70s legend onto BMW's new 1-Series Coupe. The ACS1 refines the refined, upping power output from the 1-Series' charged biturbo unit, uprating suspension and adding an extensive AC Schnitzer bodykit.
Improved downforce and greater ground adhesion are delivered via the addition of functional but stylish new skirts front and rear as well as a rear wing and rear roof spoiler. Front spoiler elements use aluminium struts developed from the motorsport world, the home of BMW's 2002. And to ensure optimum road (and track) handling, the ACS1 3.5i's sports suspension was tuned by touring car driver and technical director at AC Schnitzer Manfred Wollgarten on the North Loop of Germany's Nurburgring.
Now rated at 360 hp rather than the series model's 306 hp, the 3.5-litre biturbo unit, which has torque increase by 50 Nm to 450 Nm, delivers both on the track and on the straightline. Acceleration to 100 kph from standstill is achieved in under five seconds, while top speed increases from 250 to 300 kph. And with new sports rear silencer and aptly named 'Racing' tailpipes, these figures can be heard as much as they can be felt.
Finishing off the ACS1 are a range of alloy wheels that complement AC Schnitzer's refined new 1-Series Coupe. Type IV 'BiColor' rims available in 19" are the tuner's choice, wearing 225/35R19 tyres. Inside, an array of cabin enhnancements for controls and switchgear include the stylish splashing of aluminium and carbon.