BMW’s iconic M3 is often regarded as the benchmark in its segment, however that accolade hasn’t seemed to stop tuners from tinkering even further. The most powerful 3-series of all time has now been turned up to 11 by the third party tuning company for the Bavarian brand, AC Schnitzer. 
The sixth-generation G80 M3 may not be the most appealing car to look at but the verdict is out and it is highly capable with the right person behind the wheel. The already powerful M3 is equipped with a 3,0-litre twin-turbocharged motor which puts out a peak of 370 kW and 650 Nm from the factory and is delivered in a comfortably linear manner, that of a naturally aspirated counterpart. After AC Schnitzer got their hands on it, outputs have been increased to a whopping 440 kW and 750 Nm which is delivered solely to the rear wheels through a torque converter. All of which is covered in a mechanical warranty of which includes coverage of up to four years.
The package also includes a new stainless steel exhaust system with carbon fiber tailpieces which ameliorates the mediocre engine noise. There is a choice in suspension setup; buyers can opt for a lowering spring kit that lowers the front end by 15-20mm while the rear stays unchanged or an RS coilover kit. Anyone who has experienced both will know how much more versatile and tunable coilovers are, especially for dialing in a track setup.
With the exterior, wheels options are quite conclusive from AC Schnitzer and can be chosen and specced according to individual taste. Aero is equally as obvious with the front boasting a front splitter beneath the nostrils and canards to each of their sides. The side skirts have also been updated and the sizable exhaust pipes fill neatly into the updated rear diffuser. The most obvious update to the rear is the massive wing which unlike a ricer in a 60hp Civic, can provide as much as 70 kg of downforce at 200kmh when paired with the roof spoiler. Ideal for getting that power down on the rear wheels and mitigating hairy moments of understeer.
The interior boasts fewer updates than the exterior with a new steering wheel finished in Alcantara on the top and bottom, some stitched leather and a functional stripe at top dead center to indicate if you are driving in a straight line or not. New paddle shifters accompany the entire assembly too.
It’s hard to believe that such a complete performance car could be any better, but the AC Schnitzer upgrades give it more power and driving dynamics which could make this a highly potent track car and a strong option for those yearning for a little bit more…
