1990 BMW AC Schnitzer S5 3.7 (E34)

• Very rare original AC Schnitzer S5 3.7 built when new
• AC Schnitzer origin certificate
• Rare manual transmission
• Rare original AC Schnitzer rims
• Complete service history file
• All documents were checked and the car was photographed personally by Auctomobile
• Other features: possibility of assisting with registration, transport, insurance, storage and Trusted Checkout payment
• Please note that this car will be available for viewing by prior appointment near Mlada Boleslav, Czechia
• NOTE! This car is subject to a reclaimable Value Added Tax (VAT), which will be added to the final price

A Forgotten Gem of German Engineering
In the annals of automotive history, the early 1990s were a period of significant innovation and change. Among the plethora of high-performance machines that emerged during this era, the AC Schnitzer S5 3.7 stands out as a particularly intriguing model. A product of the renowned BMW tuning house AC Schnitzer, the S5 3.7 exemplifies the fusion of German engineering precision and the quest for enhanced driving dynamics.

Origins and Background
AC Schnitzer, founded in 1987, quickly established itself as a premier BMW tuner, known for pushing the boundaries of performance and aesthetics. By the time the S5 3.7 was introduced in 1990, AC Schnitzer had already gained a reputation for crafting vehicles that offered more than just incremental improvements over their BMW bases. The S5 3.7, based on the BMW E34 5 Series, was a testament to this ethos.

Engine and Performance
At the heart of the S5 3.7 is its most compelling feature: the engine. AC Schnitzer took the robust 3.5-liter inline-six engine from the BMW 535i and bored it out to 3.7 liters. This modification was more than just an increase in displacement; it involved meticulous engineering to ensure reliability and performance. The result was an impressive 262 horsepower and up to 363 Nm of torque.

These figures were significant at the time, placing the S5 3.7 in the same league as the era's top performance sedans. The car could sprint from 0 to 100 kmh in just over 6 seconds, a remarkable feat for a sedan of its size and class. The enhanced engine was paired with a five-speed manual gearbox, which allowed drivers to fully exploit the car's capabilities.

Handling and Dynamics
AC Schnitzer didn't stop at engine modifications. The suspension was thoroughly reworked to provide a more engaging and responsive driving experience. Lowered and stiffened springs, along with custom shock absorbers, helped to minimize body roll and improve handling precision. Wider wheels and tires, another hallmark of AC Schnitzer's modifications, ensured that the S5 3.7 maintained grip even under spirited driving conditions.

The overall driving dynamics of the S5 3.7 were a blend of comfort and sportiness. While the ride was firmer than that of the standard 5 Series, it was by no means uncomfortable. The car remained a capable and refined long-distance cruiser, yet it could also tackle twisty roads with an agility that belied its size.

Design and Aesthetics
Visually, the S5 3.7 was distinguished by subtle yet effective enhancements. AC Schnitzer's approach to design was always about augmenting BMW's classic lines rather than overshadowing them. The S5 3.7 featured a modest body kit that improved aerodynamics and added a touch of aggressiveness. A revised front spoiler, side skirts, and a rear apron were complemented by distinctive AC Schnitzer alloy wheels, which provided a hint at the car's performance potential.

Inside, the cabin was outfitted with bespoke touches that elevated the luxury quotient. High-quality materials, including leather and Alcantara, were used extensively. AC Schnitzer also offered custom instrumentation and ergonomically designed sports seats that provided better support during enthusiastic driving.

Legacy and Impact
While the AC Schnitzer S5 3.7 may not be as well-remembered as some of its contemporaries, it remains an important piece of automotive history. It represents a time when tuners like AC Schnitzer were able to significantly influence the performance car market by offering vehicles that could rival those from established manufacturers. The S5 3.7's blend of performance, handling, and understated style continues to resonate with enthusiasts who appreciate the unique qualities of tuned BMWs from this era.

Today, the S5 3.7 is a rare sight, with well-preserved examples commanding respect and admiration at car shows and among collectors. It stands as a testament to AC Schnitzer's engineering prowess and their ability to enhance the driving experience without compromising the inherent qualities of the base vehicle.

In conclusion, the 1990 AC Schnitzer S5 3.7 is more than just a tuned BMW; it is a symbol of a dynamic period in automotive history where innovation and performance were paramount. For those lucky enough to have experienced it, the S5 3.7 remains an unforgettable chapter in the story of German performance cars.

This example was produced on the 7th of May 1990 by BMW as a BMW 535i (E34) and brought directly to AC Schnitzer where it left the factory on the 11th of June 1990 already as the AC Schnitzer S5 3.7 with an AC Schnitzer VIN: BE65389. The car spent its life in Germany and is still offered with the last German registration prepared for a new registration. The previous owner has built in a possibility to run the car on LPG, but it was saved from running the car on it by the current owner. The car will be now prepared for sale after some 5 or 6 years of standing still and will be handed over after the complete service is finished by BMW specialist M.Y.C. Garage (https://mycgarage.com/).

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