The unique fixed top, which structurally reinforces the body, also gives the car its coupe persona. The roof also features an integral free-form wing specifically designed to improve downforce. Likewise for the rear deck wing. The open-mouth front skirt complements the grille and provides additional cooling for the engine and front brakes, while the rear lower valance accommodates an underflow wing. The side skirts, which create an elongated effect, also house air ducts for the rear brakes. Lastly, a pair of xenon headlights provide superior road illumination.
The body modifications are so well executed some may even go entirely unnoticed. Kudos must go to ACS designer Michele Viandante for such a seamless fit.
"In the development of our special accessory range for the BMW Z4, the initial studies of the V8 Topster were considered," said an ACS rep. "Similarities in their aerodynamic packages were both deliberate and technically sensible." Case in point: The coupe's new wide rear end, which was designed to accommodate deeper wheels. Fender to fender it's wider at the rear by more than 5 in., yet each panel aligns and flows harmoniously with the rest. Same with the reshaped hood, which features a subtle bulge-indicative of the power beneath. The dual air inlets also hint at what's inside. Large functional air vents with three chrome ribs and integrated flashers provide additional venting for the V8. The chrome ribs are similar to the standard units offered with the ACS4 package, though a bit larger.
According to Drawz, the vintage BMW two-tone orange and cream paint was derived from a blend of retro European and American auto designs. In addition to Viandante's reshaped panels, the two-tone scheme follows Chris Bangel's numerous cross sectioning seams, creating a fully encircled scallop with an overall softer flow.
The cabin is as sporty and well refined as the rest with a full range of ACS accessories, as well as special one-off items. Orange carbon-fiber inserts on the dash, steering wheel and center console set the tone, as does a pair of leather-clad racing buckets. In addition chrome rollover bars and polished aluminum ACS foot pedals, shift knob and handbrake handle add highlights to the black and orange interior. No detail was deemed too small, including the contrasting orange stitchwork.
The end result: AC Schnitzer has successfully reinterpreted BMW's popular roadster. "This is a car you can drive comfortably around town and confidently around the track" said Wollgarten. "Many sports cars are built to look good, but may not do as well under track conditions. The V8 Topster is designed to do both extremely well."
Will we see a production version of the coupe? Not likely. However, various crossover accessories are available within the ACS4 product line.