BMW 8 Series Coupe Gets Carbon-Fiber Makeover And 600-HP

AC Schnitzer is planning to extensively modify BMW’s gorgeous grand-tourer.

The BMW 8 Series Coupe only recently started production, but aftermarket tuners are already working on body kits and performance upgrades for the gorgeous grand tourer while we wait for the range-topping M8 to arrive.

At the 2018 Essen Motor Show next month, German tuner AC Schnitzer will be presenting a design study showing a plethora of modifications it has planned for the new BMW 8 Series Coupe.

For the 850i xDrive, the company is planning to extract 600 hp from the car’s 4.4-liter twin-turbo V8, which is a significant increase over the 530 hp the standard car delivers. Torque will also be increased from 553 lb-ft to 626 lb-ft. The 840d xDrive diesel is also getting a performance upgrade from 320 hp to 380 hp.

In addition, AC Schnitzer is promising more direct engine response and sound optimization thanks to the addition of two carbon tailpipes on either side measuring 4.1 inches in diameter. To fine-tune the car’s handling, a suspension spring kit will lower the car’s center of gravity by approx. 0.7 inches – 0.9 inches at the front and 0.3 inches – 0.5 inches at the rear axle. 20 and 21-inch AC3 Lightweight Forged Wheels and AC1 Light Alloy Rims will also be included. These improvements will result in “noticeably optimized” driving dynamics and cornering handling without compromising comfort.

A host of aerodynamic components will also be added to maximize the downforce and aerodynamic balance. The tuner says they will be largely manufactured in super-light carbon, but some of them are still made of fiber glass in the design study. Customers will be able to fit the BMW 8 series with a carbon front spoiler, a matching front splitter and carbon front side wings, as well as carbon covers for the air breathers. Carbon hood vents will also help the modified engine breathe easier.

At the rear, AC Schnitzer has fitted a carbon rear wing and a carbon rear diffuser to improve the downforce, while carbon side skirts make the 8 series appear lower to the ground. Aluminium interior accessories will also be available, including aluminium shifting paddles, a pedal set with matching foot rest and a key holder.