The 2005 IAA saw the much-observed premiere of the AC Schnitzer Tension Concept based on BMW M6. The positive reception together with huge demand for this unique vehicle persuaded AC Schnitzer to include in our range a road-going version, limited to 50 examples, for conversion from the 630i -M6 models.
The Design
The bonnet of the AC Schnitzer Tension, restyled from the standard 6-series, is used on the Street Version. It reveals at first glance, from its large air outlet edged in a chrome frame, that
the ventilation of the power plant is actively supported by sufficient cooling air flow. The front skirt of the Tension technology showcase has been completely adapted. It makes the Tension Street Version look much lower and at the same time improves downforce on the front axle at high speeds. The air intake provides additional cooling for the engine and the front brakes and also gives the Tension Street Version its unmistakable facial expression. To provide sufficient ventilation for the power plant, the new front wing has integral air outlet openings which with their three chrome ribs and the indicators are reminiscent of a shark's mouth.
Another highlight at the rear of the Tension Street Version is the boot lid which was originally reserved for the Tension. But its modified styling gives the rear of the BMW 6-series the "Finishing Touch", so the new boot lid is now a firm part of the Street Version conversion.
The bodystyling of the Tension Street Version is completed by the AC Schnitzer sports mirrors and the extravagant two-color paintwork in Alpine White in combination with Anthracite Metallic. Naturally, other paint options are available on request.
Wheels and Suspension
What does a costly aerodynamic conversion look like without the right wheel and tire combination? AC Schnitzer thinks it is incomplete. So they decided to equip the Tension Street Version with the latest AC Schnitzer wheel generation: the forged alloy Type V. It has a partly polished, partly painted surface. This wheel type, available for all 5 and 6-series, achieves a fundamental
paradox: reduction in weight with simultaneously maximum wheel diameter and width.
The Tension Street Version is fitted with rims size 9.0J x 20" on the front and 10.0J x 20" on the rear, and each front wheel weighs in at just approx. 23.8 lbs. The tires to fit the wheels are size 245/35 ZR20 on the front and 285/30 ZR20 on the rear.
In conjunction with the wheel and tire combination, a sports suspension has been developed for the Tension Street Version which lowers the vehicle by around 1 inch and perceptibly improves driving dynamics. For the M6, a suspension spring kit is available. To counter lateral roll, AC Schnitzer antiroll bar sets are fitted to the front and rear axles.
The New AC Schnitzer 5.1-Liter Engine
Depending on base vehicle, the Tension Street Version can be fitted optionally with the new AC Schnitzer 5.1-liter engine. This is available in principle for all BMW 6-series with N62 B44 or N62 B48 TU engines.
The new engine offers a true alternative to the M5 or M6. As this conversion is also available for vehicles with automatic transmission, fans of automatics can now enjoy the higher power in conjunction with the pleasures of an automatic.
Whereas the basic engine gives maximum torques of 332 lb-ft or 362 lb-ft, the AC Schnitzer 5.1-liter engine achieves 406 lb-ft. Naturally, the performance has been optimized. It rises from 333 bhp or 367 bhp to a superb 411 bhp. At the same time, driving performance is enhanced. The top speed rises on average by around 20 mph.
To achieve excellent deceleration figures, the AC Schnitzer high performance brake system from the Tension has been modified. At the front axle, an 8-pot fixed caliper with perforated, vented brake discs and special pads ensures braking with ruthless efficiency. However, this kit is reserved for the Street Versions based on BMW M6.
The Interior
Only the interior remains, and this too has been modified in typical AC Schnitzer fashion: Starting with the carbon-fiber interior trim in titanium via the 3-spoke airbag sports steering wheel in
leather with carbon applications, the automatic selector lever in carbon, the new combiinstrument with a speed display up to 205 mph, through to velours mats for footwell and boot with red embroidered logo: this all gives the characteristic look to the interior of the Tension Street Version. The overall impression is completed with silver or black anodized aluminum accessories comprising pedal set, foot rests, handbrake handle and cover for the controller of the "i-Drive" systems.
Last but not least, the silver serial number on the black anodized aluminum placard on the centre console permanently reminds the driver that he is sitting in a very special car: e.g. Tension Street Version no. 1/50.
The AC Schnitzer Tension Street Version is available in various levels. The conversion work is performed exclusively by AC Schnitzer in Aachen. The only exceptions are the USA and Japan, where trained specialists perform the vehicle conversion locally.
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