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AC Schnizter
Watch Collection
AC Schnitzer MSRP: $TBA
Info: www.ac-schnizter.com
You've turned to AC Schnizter to upgrade your BMW. So how about asking them to change the look of your wrist? With the same style they bring to a set of wheels, Schnizter has released a new set of timepieces. For example, the Chrono S1 features a six-screw base, not unlike its Type II alloy wheel. It performs as well as it looks thanks to "Caliber Dubois-Dprasz 2025" automatic movement powering the watch. Scratch-resistant sapphire glass protects the hand-applied numerals on the face. Other timepieces in the line-up include the Chrono S2, another stainless steel watch. It borrows from Schnitzer's wheels with the Type III embossed on the base! For non-automatic lovers, the line rounds out with the Quartz Chronograph 2, which not only looks like a diver's watch but can withstand water pressure up to 10-bar.
Toyo Proxes TQ
DOT Drag Radials
Toyo Tire MSRP: website
Info: www.toyo.com
Designed for high-horsepower, high-performance cars, Toyo's first DOT-approved drag radial delivers maximum grip during launch for quicker 60ft times and lower elapsed times. It does this thanks to a new tread compound, strengthened radial construction, and new dual-purpose, low-void asymmetric tread design. The tread includes a semi-slick inner area to improve traction of independent rear suspensions, and a variable pitch outer area to reduce noise while driving on the street. Currently, the Proxes TQ comes in the following sizes: P255/50-16, P275/45-16, P275/40-17, P315/35-17, P345/40-17 and P315/35-18.
Sprint Booster
Power Converter
Sprint Booster MSRP: $329.95
Info: www.sprintboosterusa.com
Slam a heavy foot on the gas pedal and what do you get? If it's not an instant roar, you may need the Sprint Booster. The product provides increased acceleration times on drive-by-wire cars by measuring and converting the digital signal. It then gives the ECU a new signal for quicker response. So, when you put the pedal to the metal, you can really feel the response. The application-specific power converter can be found for numerous high-performance models and it's a simple plug 'n play installation.
Shift Knobs
BMP Design
From $169.9
Info: www.bmpdesign.com
To make it a little easier for the memory-challenged and to offer a new choice for incurable customizers, BMP Design has new shift knobs. On top of the knob, there's a visible LED display that spells out exactly which gear you're in. You can also choose from four display colors and three knob colors: classic titanium, white or black. Installation couldn't be easier (you only have to work with one screw and two wires), and training the knob simply requires passing through the gears. BMP's custom shift knobs fit most vehicles with shift lever diameters of 10-14mm.
Titanium M3 Exhaust
Vorsteiner
MSRP: $4195
Info: www.vorsteiner.com
The Titans, mythological giants who ruled the earth, were understandably bad-ass, so a metal named after them has to be good. And titanium possesses strength in a lightweight package. So Vorsteiner's titanium exhaust maximizes the power-to-weight ratio in E90 and E92 M3 models. They're apparently 37 lb lighter than the stainless factory unit. These cat-back exhausts also improve power and torque thanks to efficient airflow and reduced back pressure. 90mm tips (with an optional Blue Torched finish) cap off the system. Another change you'll also notice is the distinctive sound without the interior drone. According to the company's testing, gains peak at 14hp and 13 lb/ft.
2.0TSI Boost Hose
AWE Tuning
MSRP: $39.95
Info: www.awe-tuning.com
Don't get us wrong, we appreciate the improvements of the new 2008-on VW/Audi 2.0TSI engine, but there's a drawback - AWE points out there's no accessible boost or vacuum source. So if you want to install aftermarket boost gauges or diverter valves, good luck! Fortunately, AWE has an easy and cheap way to tap into the motor for both boost and vacuum: its 2.0TSI Boost Hose. Constructed from five-ply silicone, the hose is reinforced with Nomex fibers for greater strength and heat resistance. Install this hose and you'll be adding your gauges and diverter valves without headaches.