AC Schnitzer’s New BMW M5 Is Stupidly Fast – And Ready For Its Essen Debut

Following a long teasing campaign, AC Schnitzer’s BMW M5 is finally ready.

Debuting at the Essen Motor Show later this week, the souped-up high-performance sedan offers the complete package. It brings upgrades to the styling, engine, suspension, exhaust system, and wheels.

The main highlight is the power kit that lifts the 4.4-liter twin-turbo V8’s power output to 700 PS (690 hp) and the peak torque to 850 Nm (627 lb-ft). Those are gains of 100 PS (99 hp) and 100 Nm (74 lb-ft) over the standard BMW M5. AC Schnitzer says it will give the M5 Competition a similar performance upgrade soon.

The German tuner brags about their take on the new M5 scoring a lap time of 7 minutes 29.50 seconds on the Nurburgring, making it an impressive 9 seconds faster than the standard F90 M5.

Moving on, the tuner offers two exhaust systems with silencers, including flap control. Each is available with three choices of tailpipe trims: Carbon Sport, Sport Black, and Sport.

The car is equipped with a KW V4 coil-over suspension that offers adjustable compression and rebound as well as variable height adjustment. AC Schnitzer says it contributes to “a noticeable increase in driving dynamics and cornering handling.” There’s also an AC Schnitzer spring kit that can lower the M5’s by 20-25 mm on the front axle and 10-15 mm on the rear axle.

Various light alloy and lightweight forged wheels are available for the tuned M5, including the bi-color 21-inch AC3 Lightweight Forged Evo rims with central locking optic. It’s just a disguise: the wheel bolts are still there but they’re no longer visible. The central locking nut can be finished in grey or gold. High-performance tires sized 275/30 R21 (front) and 285/30 R21 (rear) round off the wheel department.

As for the aero kit, AC Schnitzer went for carbon fiber front spoiler elements, side skirts, a rear roof spoiler, a boot lid spoiler, and carbon fiber rear diffuser. Optionally, customers can also get a front splitter in two different versions and a carbon rear wing.

The interior gains several aluminum accessories including the paddle shifters, pedal set, footrest, cover for the iDrive controller and a key holder.