THE LATEST F66 MINI IN AC SCHNITZER GUISE IS RATHER TASTY.
AC Schnitzer, the renowned tuning company with 37 years of history under its belt, has once again brought its expertise to bear on the latest MINI Hatch (F66). Founded in 1987 in Aachen, Germany, AC Schnitzer has long been a key player in the world of automotive performance tuning. What began as a collaboration between entrepreneur and motorsport enthusiast Willi Kohl and motorsports engineer Herbert Schnitzer has grown into a global icon. The duo's vision was clear from the start: blend business acumen with technical prowess to create a tuning brand that set new standards in the automotive world. Originally a subsidiary of Schnitzer Motorsport, known for its success in touring car racing, AC Schnitzer soon carved out a niche for itself by offering high-performance yet street-friendly modifications. Their work on the iconic BMW E30 3 Series in the late '80s set the tone, with enhanced engine performance, suspension tweaks, and custom styling that far outpaced factory offerings. Since then, the company has expanded its range to cover not just BMWs but also the BMW-owned MINI brand. The MINI Hatch is now the latest recipient of AC Schnitzer’s fine-tuned precision, offering enthusiasts a chance to take their MINI experience to the next level.
For those who demand more than the standard, AC Schnitzer’s tuning program for the MINI Hatch injects a dose of individuality and sporting flair. The highlight? A bespoke AC Schnitzer exhaust system designed for the MINI Cooper S. This setup, featuring a front and rear silencer and finished with striking 100 mm ‘Sport Carbon’ tailpipes, gives the car a throaty growl that matches its aggressive new look. The rear diffuser insert, also by AC Schnitzer, ties the package together visually while adding that unmistakable performance edge.
Handling is taken up a notch too, thanks to the AC Schnitzer suspension spring kit. Lowering the MINI by 20 to 25 mm at both the front and rear, the kit provides sharper feedback and enhances agility, without sacrificing everyday usability. Whether you're carving through twisting country roads or navigating city streets, this setup strikes the perfect balance between sportiness and practicality. AC Schnitzer's AC1 alloy wheels are another standout feature, available in BiColor or Black. These lightweight yet strong rims, sized at 19” with 215/35 R 19 tyres, complement the MINI’s sporty silhouette while improving road grip. And for those looking to go even wider, AC Schnitzer’s 10 mm wheel spacers give the MINI a broader stance and better traction, further reinforcing its performance credentials. On the aerodynamics front, AC Schnitzer has pulled out all the stops. The conversion includes front side wings, a front splitter, and side skirts – all of which enhance downforce and give the MINI a more dynamic, aggressive look. At the rear, a 2-piece roof wing boosts downforce, ensuring stability at higher speeds. For a finishing touch, AC Schnitzer offers decals in Black or Anthracite, as well as a protective film for the rear skirt to keep the loading area free of scratches. Inside, the transformation continues with AC Schnitzer’s signature attention to detail. An aluminium footrest and keyholder add a touch of motorsport exclusivity to the interior, ensuring that the cabin feels as sporty as the car looks from the outside. As always, AC Schnitzer delivers OEM quality across the board. Every component is homologated and meets the highest standards, offering a modular system that allows MINI drivers to customize their vehicles to their tastes. Whether opting for a full conversion or simply upgrading select parts, the new AC Schnitzer program for the MINI Hatch offers the perfect blend of performance, design, and personalization.
Take a look at the YouTube video from the AC Schnitzer crew that shows off what the latest Mini Copper, the F66, looks like once they've had their way with it. Much like: MINI by AC Schnitzer (F66) - First Impressions | acschnitzer1987
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