When the E36 generation BMW M3 arrived, it set a new standard for performance coupes. However, the German tuning house AC Schnitzer took this already formidable machine and elevated it further. This specific car, a 1995 BMW M3 AC Schnitzer ACS3 CLS, is #7 of a reported 75 conversions. It represents a focused, lightweight vision of the M3, drawing directly from the company’s motorsport heritage. This highly modified coupe is a rare sight and a testament to serious engineering.
AC Schnitzer’s Motorsport-Derived Lightweight Design
AC Schnitzer was born from Schnitzer Motorsport, a team with deep roots in BMW racing, including the iconic 3.0 CSL touring cars. The ACS3 CLS, which stands for Coupe Lightweight Silhouette, was their showcase for performance products. They aimed for a significant weight reduction of approximately 160 kilograms, or roughly 350 pounds. This reduction was achieved through the intelligent use of advanced materials.
Carbon-Kevlar Body and Aero Equipment
The pursuit of lightness meant replacing numerous standard body components with carbon-Kevlar panels. These specialized parts include the hood, the front and rear bumpers, and the aggressively boxed fenders and quarter panels. Lower bodywork also utilizes this material, creating a sleek, integrated look. Additionally, the car features a raised rear spoiler and a front splitter for enhanced aerodynamics. The streamlined side-view mirrors and an exposed locking fuel door complete the exterior transformation. Subtle CLS door and decklid graphics denote the car’s unique status.
Focused, Race-Inspired Interior Details
The interior modifications are just as performance-focused, starting with the seating. A trio of fixed-back Recaro carbon-Kevlar seats are upholstered in black microsuede. These seats feature both Recaro and AC Schnitzer stitching for a custom touch. The rear bench seat is replaced by a carbon-Kevlar bulkhead, solidifying the lightweight mission. This material also adorns the center console, door cards, and side panels. Comfort features are retained, including power windows, dual-zone climate control, and an alarm system. A plaque confirms the car as chassis #007, produced in February 1995.
Performance and Handling Enhancements
The tuning company developed a specific suspension package to complement the reduced weight and increased power. This ACS3 CLS suspension was reportedly fine-tuned on the legendary North Loop of the Nürburgring. The setup incorporates adjustable sway bars and height-adjustable rear spring perches for dialing in performance. Front coilovers provide 25 millimeters of height adjustment, allowing the driver to perfectly set the stance. This focused approach ensures the coupe handles its increased capabilities with precision. The car rides on striking 18-inch multi-piece wheels finished in black with red accents.
Engine Specifications and Drivetrain
The engine is the original 3.0-liter inline-six, which was substantially reworked by AC Schnitzer engineers. They installed sport camshafts and recalibrated the Motronic ECU mapping for better output. A carbon-Kevlar strut brace adds rigidity to the engine bay. These focused changes resulted in impressive factory-advertised figures. The engine now produces 320 horsepower at 7,000 rpm and 251 lb-ft of torque at 3,600 rpm. This strong output is managed by a desirable five-speed manual transmission. The manual gearbox is linked to a limited-slip differential to maximize traction upon acceleration. A distinct AC Schnitzer exhaust system provides a throaty, upturned dual-exit soundtrack.
Braking and Driver Engagement
A critical safety upgrade is provided by slotted and cross-drilled rotors at all four corners. This enhanced braking system provides fade-resistant and consistent stopping power during aggressive driving. The driver interacts with the car via a microsuede-wrapped AC Schnitzer steering wheel. The gauge cluster features a Stack 8k-rpm tachometer, a unit reportedly shared with Schnitzer Motorsport’s Group A touring cars. This detail provides an authentic link to the company’s racing pedigree.
Summary of a Rare Tuner Car
This 1995 BMW M3 AC Schnitzer ACS3 CLS is an incredibly rare and historically important example of performance tuning. It masterfully combines the E36 M3’s inherent balance with significant upgrades in power, weight, and handling. From the carbon-Kevlar panels and Recaro seats to the Nürburgring-tested suspension, this coupe represents the pinnacle of 1990s AC Schnitzer expertise. Showing only 30k miles, it presents a unique opportunity for any serious collector.
Disclaimer: Content on this site is for informational and entertainment purposes only. Details, analyses, and opinions reflect current trends and personal views, not professional or financial advice. Always verify information with official sources before making any decisions.
Source: bringatrailer.com
