Tension can mean an excited expectation, a force inside an elastic body, or the tool writers use to keep readers turning the page. With its concept car at the IAA 2005, AC Schnitzer showed that all of these definitions could apply to one car: the TENSION, based on the BMW M6.
Optimised engine management and a tubular manifold exhaust with catalytic converter, sports silencers and Sports Trim tailpipes lifted the V10 to 552 hp, with 540 Nm at 6,200 rpm. The TENSION reached 100 km/h in just 4.5 seconds, and with the speed limiter removed it kept pulling to 331.78 km/h. Eight-piston front calipers with slotted, ventilated 374 x 36 mm discs and four-piston rear calipers took care of braking.
An adjustable RS coilover suspension lowered the car by 30 mm with clearly revised spring and damper rates, helped by anti-roll bars front and rear and a strut brace in aluminium and carbon. It was tested on the Nürburgring Nordschleife and on public roads. The car also introduced the AC Schnitzer Type V Forged Wheel, a lightweight bi-colour forged wheel in 10.0J x 20 with 285/30 ZR 20 tyres, the front one weighing about 10.8 kg.
The body was designed around aerodynamics and airflow. It featured a bonnet with a power dome and large outlet, a new front apron for more front downforce, and front wings with shark-like gills and three chrome ribs. Two interchangeable carbon diffusers, one for track and one for road, could be swapped by the driver with aluminium quick releases, the spare travelling in the boot. The rear wing was a removable track option in the same way.
The body grew 25 mm on each side and wore a two-tone finish in Magic Orange Metallic and Carbon Grey. Inside, leather racing bucket seats with AC Schnitzer lettering, carbon trim in Magic Orange, matching orange leather armrests, Alcantara details with black stitching and velour mats with an embroidered TENSION logo completed the interior.
Key facts
- Shown at the IAA 2005
- 552 hp and 540 Nm
- 0 to 100 km/h in 4.5 seconds
- Top speed 331.78 km/h
- Debut of the Type V Forged Wheel
- Interchangeable carbon diffusers
