Apart from the Audi R8 V12 TDI concept, we don’t really associate decent performance and drop-dead gorgeous looks with the various diesel derivatives from manufacturers the world over – until now that is.
By Kyle Kock
Unlike the R8 TDI “LeMans” concept, which is unlikely to ever make production status, Aachen-based German tuner AC Schnitzer offers the next best alternative – a worked, version of the facelifted BMW 635d Coupé, as well as upgrades for the 650i.
AC Schnitzer’s head designer, Michele Viandante, has altered the front end with a spoiler to mirror the traditional BMW kidney grille and accentuate the new factory triangular foglamps, not forgetting the new side skirts and rear spoiler with built-in third brake light. Situated in the ample wheelarches is a set of Type VI 20-inch wheels wrapped in 225 rubber at the front and 255 pieces in the rear.
The 3,0-litre twin turbo diesel engine delivers 210 kW and 580 N.m of torque in standard form, which is adequate enough for any oil burner, but AC Schitzer saw it fit to bump these outputs to 228 kW and 680 N.m.
For those who don’t fancy diesel-powered autobahn cruisers, there is a similar kit modelled for the 650i, featuring the same exterior alterations. The 4,8-litre V8 has had its displacement increased to 5,1-litres and AC Schnitzer has massaged an extra 32 kW out of the 650i to produce 302 kW. There is no word on torque output, but AC Shnitzer does claim a top speed in excess of 280 km/h!
