Can you believe that AC Schnitzer has been around for over 30 years? The German company, based in Aachen, is one of the most respected tuners in the world, best known for their marmite love it or hate it tuning to BMW products.
And so, as if their rather large grille adorning the front of the G23 BMW 4 Series Convertible wasn’t subjective enough, AC Schnitzer have stepped in with what they describe as “top sporting performance and visual independence beyond the standard” for BMW’s swnaky new drop-top.
Their rather extensive range offers an array of items from engine tuning and exhaust setups to interior modifications, wheel and tyre sets and aerodynamics kits.
The power upgrade option is available for the M440i, 430i, 420i and the 430d models, however in South Africa we only have 420i and M440i xDrive models in convertible G23 form.
The 313 kW M440i by AC Schnitzer features both performance tuning and the exhaust system with AC Schnitzer exhaust tips which are available in carbon, chrome or black anodized. The AC Schnitzer sports suspension system features a spring and damper combination and lowers the body by between 15 mm and 25 mm.
Of course, interesting wheel designs are par for the course at AC Schnitzer and the options available for the 4 Series are no different – the AC1 alloy wheels are offered in either BiColor or Anthracite can be selected in 19-inch and 20-inch sizes, while the 20-inch AC4 Flow Forming wheels are available in BiColor or black and fit for 235/35 R 20 tyres on the front and 265/30 R 20 on the rear axle.
The AC Schnitzer 4 Series aerodynamics options are not just visual items – the front splitter, for example, provides an additional 35 kg of downforce to the front axle at 200 km/h. This works in conjunction with the side skirts and the rear skirt protection foil to provide a visual and functional modification to the 4 Series.
In the cabin, gearshift paddles, a pedal set with matching footrest, a cover for the iDrive controller and a keyholder are all fashioned from aluminium – subtle, but noticeable.
All of the above items are available either individually or as a part of a “Complete upgrade package.”
