BMW 6 Series: Modified

As much as we like feasting our eyes on brand new cars, there's nothing quite like new product with a twist.

We are, of course, talking about the $200,000+ BMW 6 Series - but not any old 6 Series. No, the vehicles in question are louder, turn in quicker and look sharper.

Modified by one of Germany's most respected car and motorcycle tuning houses, AC Schnitzer, the 6 Series appears to have finally reached its full potential.

While the standard two-door 6 Series Bee-Em is no slouch, outputting some 245kW @ 6100rpm thanks to its 4.4-litre V8 engine, the ACS6 gets a freer flowing exhaust system that AC Schnitzer says improves throttle response.

A further highlight of this is the integrated double sports exhaust system with its 2 chromed tailpipes. The company describes it as a "Trap-Ment" form, a combination of trapezium and segment, and the shape suits the 6 Series' unorthodox design very well.

The high-flow exhaust system also gives the ACS6 more character than a standard model, creating a more traditional V8 burble.

The E63-derived ACS6 benefits from a range of other performance mods, least of which is a new suspension rig.

AC Schnitzer reckons the current settings are being fine tuned on public German roads and also on the North Loop of the Nürburgring, which will please the track day fans no end.

In addition to being lowered by about 25mm, both the coupe and the convertible ACS6 models gets slightly stiffer suspension settings to sharpen steering response, and like any good German tuner, AC Schnitzer has also created a whole new look for the ACS6.

As well as an optional chrome highlight package for those who want more 'show', the ACS6 gets plenty of aerodynamic extras, including a new front spoiler.

With a larger air dam that helps gives the 6 Series a much more menacing visage, it also reduces the radically styled headlights' awkward positioning thanks to complimentary lines.

New side skirt inserts, a rear spoiler and a rear bumper section round out the body enhancements and together with the beautifully sculpted exhaust pipes make for a very pretty picture indeed.

AC Schnitzer has always been big on wheels, and the ACS6 gets 'real deal' 20-inch alloy wheels shod with 245/35 R20 rubber up front, while the rear axle gets über-wide 285/30 R20 tyres.

A 19-inch wheel kit is available, as is a massive 'Type IV' racing wheel set that measures 21-inches in diametre.

The ACS6 is more aerodynamic, has more grip, more power, and steers better than a standard BMW 6 Series, but AC Schnitzer didn't stop there.

It's even outfitted the interior to suit individual tastes, with race-style carbon fibre interior trim and an ergonomically designed airbag sports steering wheel. There's even aluminium finishes for most major controls, including the complicated "i-Drive System".

The ACS6 is a prime example of why tuning houses - and not just European outfits - are becoming more and more popular: people simply don't want to be driving the same car as everyone else, a mirror image.

In Australia Dick Johnson's new DJR 320 Falcon-based creation is a perfect example, as is Corsa Specialised Vehicle's CSV Mondo GT sporting a 6.5-litre V8, and you can bet your bottom dollar more and more specialised tuning houses will emerge as the trend builds momentum.