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BMW
2002 The 2002 is one of BMW's most famous automobile models. It
was a two-door sports sedan based on the four-door 1600, and cemented the company's
reputation for compact sporting sedans. The 2002 was the forerunner of the BMW
3 Series. It was produced from 1968 to 1976.A three-door model, the 2002 Touring,
was also available. The Touring was not a full station wagon, and may in modern
terms be considered a hatchback. BMW would not offer a Touring model again until
the late 1980s, with the 3 Series.The 1500 had already begun BMW's reputation
for sports sedans, but the 2002 may be considered its ultimate incarnation. With
its 1,990 cm³ engine, it produced some 120 bhp (88 kW) in the 2002ti, and 130
bhp (96 kW) in the high-performance 2002tii. The 2002tii had a top speed of 185
km/h (115 mph).The 2002 Turbo (production 1,672) was launched at the 1973 Frankfurt
Motor Show. It was the company's first turbocharged production car. Power was
raised to 170 hp (125 kW) at 5,800 rpm, with 240 Nm (177 ft•lbf) of torque. Unlike
Saab and Porsche, companies which also made some of the first turbocharged production
cars around this time, BMW has made little use of turbocharging in its gasoline
engines since.Built in small numbers was a Cabriolet. These were produced by Baur
of Germany, which to this day, as IVM Automotive, continues to convert BMWs. BMW
3-Series The BMW 3 Series is a line of compact luxury cars manufactured
by BMW since May 1975. It is the successor to the 2002 coupe, retaining much of
that car's styling while adding a more powerful 2.0 L 110 hp (82 kW) engine and
other performance enhancements. The 3 Series was for some time, the smallest car
line manufactured by BMW, although that place has recently been taken by the BMW
1 Series.From its sporting origins in 1975, the E21 generation, available in two
and four-door forms, as well as a later in-house full convertible (replacing one
developed by Baur of Germany), became a more formal range that was synonymous
with the "yuppie" generation. Being an accessible prestige-badge car,
the 3 Series' reputation grew at this time. By the early 21st century, the E46
3 Series, designed by American Chris Bangle, was the best-selling car of its size
in the world, as commonplace in Asia and America as in Europe, while maintaining
its prestige image. Consequently, BMW decided to leave well enough alone: while
larger BMWs followed a more avant-garde Bangle style, the latest E90 is not a
radical departure from the current model.Like most of BMW's contemporary models,
the 3 Series name has been applied to many different vehicles. The 1998 3 Series
is marketed similarly to the 1999 3 Series, but the two share few mechanical components
and are styled quite differently. BMW
5-Series The BMW 5 Series is a series of mid-size luxury cars manufactured
by BMW in Germany. They have been available as sedans station wagons.The 5 Series
got its name by being the fifth of the "new series" cars after the V-8
and Isetta era. The preceding models were the 700, the "New Class" 1500/1600/1800/1602/2002/1502,the
"New Six" 2500/2800/Bavaria and the CS. The 5 Series was intended to
replace the smaller New Class sedans, leaving the coupes as the company's low-end
model.The body was styled by Marcello Gandini, who also did the Fiat 132 and Alfa
Romeo Alfetta, two other cars that have a very similar design.There have been
five generations of the 5 Series to date. To differentiate between them, they
are referred to by their unique chassis numbers (EXX).The 5 Series began the BMW
tradition of being named with a three-digit number. The first digit (5 in this
case) represents the model, and the following two digits (usually) represent the
size of the engine in decilitres, which is the main distinguishing difference.
Additional letters or words may be added to the end of the three-digit number
to define the fuel type (petrol or diesel), engine or transmission details, and
the body style. The 'i' originally stood for (fuel) 'injection'.This car has been
widely praised in all aspects; many say it is the best BMW in the world. The diesels
provide great torque and smoothness with great economy. The M5 has been called
"the ultimate in discreet speed" with 369 lbf•ft (500 N•m) of torque
and a 0–60 mph time of 5.2 s. The only downside was its smallish cabin and tiny
trunk space of 11.1 cubic feet (314 L) - for an executive car not to be able to
fit a set of golf clubs was inexcusable. BMW
6-Series The BMW 6 Series is two distinct lines of automobiles from
BMW, both coupés. The first was the E24, launched in August, 1976 to replace the
3.0CS and 3.0CSi. Initial models were the 630 CS and the 633 CSi. This was dropped
in 1989 and after a short gap replaced by the 8 Series (E31). The second line
is the entirely new E63, launched 2003 and produced currently.The original 6 Series
replaced older BMW models (specifically, the 3.0CS and 3.0CSi). The new E24 chassis
was safer than that of the E9 and met new United States federal crash and rollover
standards. The oringal 6-Series was first launched in August 1976, with the 633CSi.
The had a 3210cc engine with 197 bhp. This was joined in 1980 by the 635CSi it
had a 3453cc sohc 218bhp engine with a top speed of 138mph and could reach 60
in 7.4 seconds. In June 1982 the 635CSi went into production with a 3430cc, 218bhp
enine that had a top speed of 142mhp. Finally there was a M635CSi. This had a
3453cc, 286bhp engine with a top speed of 156mph. And recahed 60 in 6.2 seconds.The
630 CS used a 2986 cm³ Straight-6 M30 motor with a Solex 4A1 carburetor, making
184 hp (137 kW) at 5800 rpm. The 633 CSi used the same engine, but with a Bosch
Motronic fuel injection system, which increased output to 200 hp (150 kW).In 1983
BMW took the M88/3, a modified version of the M88/1 from the BMW M1 and put it
in the E24 chassis, creating the M635CSi, the US variant of which was called the
M6. The M6 also had improved suspension, brakes, and a close ratio manual gearbox.In
1989 the 6 Series was supplanted by the 8 Series, but in late 2003 the 6 Series
was reintroduced (as a 2004 model), with Coupe and Convertible versions based
on the BMW E63 and BMW E64 platforms, respectively. These two models are each
available with either a 3.0 L (2996 cc) straight-6 making 190 kW (258 hp DIN)
at 6600 rpm and 300 Nm (221.3 ft.lbf) of torque from 2500–4000 rpm (in the 630i)
or a 4.4 L (4398 cc) V8 making 245 kW (333 hp DIN) and 450 Nm (331.9 ft.lbf) of
torque at 3600 rpm (in the 645Ci). [1] In some markets, the convertible versions
are sold as the 630i Cabriolet and the 645Ci Cabriolet.The V8 in the 645Ci is
the N62 motor, the same powerplant used in the 545i and 745i.Unlike that of the
new 5 Series and 7 Series cars, the styling of the new 6 Series has generally
received a warm welcome from the BMW community—except, largely, owners and enthusiasts
of the E24. In 2005 an M6 version of the new 6 Series will be introduced. It will
share the E60 BMW M5's engine and gearbox. BMW
7-Series The BMW 7 Series is a luxury saloon (sedan) made by BMW.
It replaced the "New Six" models in 1977. It is BMW's flagship car. There
have been four generations of the 7 Series:* BMW E23 (1977–1986)* BMW E32 (1987–1994)*
BMW E38 (1995–2001)* BMW E65/E66 (2002–present)The current 7 Series is available
on two different platforms: the standard-wheelbase E65 (2990 mm, 118 in) and the
extended-wheelbase E66 (3130 mm, 123 in).This car was also the first production
BMW to be styled by Chris Bangle. The styling has been controversial and has received
mixed reviews.The E65/E66 7 Series features BMW's iDrive system, consisting of
a video screen in the dashboard and a controller mounted on the centre console
that is used in a similar way to a computer mouse. Using a system of eight menus,
most of the car's climate, audio, navigation, suspension and communication settings
are controlled via iDrive. However, the system has been criticised by some for
being too complex and for distracting the driver from the road.It brings with
it new perspectives and possibilities. It challenges every presumption about conventional
Sedan design, and yet achieves a timeless beauty in every line. It thrills with
its light-footed agility. It impresses with its graceful presence. It performs
better than ever before, and it uses less fuel than ever before. Inside the cabin,
the typical dashboard clutter has been swept aside, and in its place is an elegance
and ergonomic harmony that will forever change the way we drive. Welcome the automobile
for the new millennium. Please come in.Further information on the official fuel
consumption and on the official specific CO2 emissions of new automobiles can
be found in the guidelines on fuel consumption and CO2 emissions of new automobiles
which are available free of charge at all retail outlets and from DAT Deutsche
Automobil Treuhand GmbH, Helmut-Hirth-Str. 1, 73760 Ostfildern-Scharnhausen, Germany. BMW
8-Series The BMW 8 Series (chassis code BMW E31) was a V8 or V12
engined 2-door 2+2 coupe built by BMW as a substitute for the original BMW 6 Series
in 1989. Production was stopped in 1999 and the 6 Series was not picked up again
until 2003. 30,609 8 Series cars were built in total.Design of the 8 Series began
in 1984, with construction starting in 1986. The 8 Series debuted in Frankfurt
at the IAA Auto Show in early September, 1989. Although it was meant to replace
the 6 Series, the cars had very different character: while the 6 Series was a
solid Grand Touring car, the 8 Series was aimed more towards the supercar market.
It was the BMW's flagship car while in production.Over a billion German Marks
were spent on development in total. BMW used CAD tools, still unusual at the time,
to design an all-new body. Combined with wind tunnel testing, the resulting car
has a drag coefficient of 0.29, a major improvement from the 635 CSi's 0.39.While
CAD modeling allowed the car's unibody to be 8 lb lighter than that of its predecessor,
the car was significantly heavier when completed due to the large engine and added
luxury items—a source of criticism from those who wanted BMW to concentrate on
the driving experience.BMW 8 Series production ceased in 1999, and it was four
years before its successor, the new 6 Series, went into production. BMW
E26 M1 Conceived to replace the aging 3.0 CSL in GT racing, the
M1 was a giant leap forward in design for BMW. With the Giugiaro / Italdesign
designed M1 BMW instantly entered the supercar market, previously dominated mostly
by Italian and British manufacturers. Although its appearance was unlike any other
production BMW, its heart, the straight 6 engine, was derived straight from previous
models like 3.0 CSL. For homologation purposes a minimum of 400 M1s had to be
built.BMW's lack of experience with high performance, mid-engined cars forced
them to seek third party help for the M1's construction. What better partner to
pick than Lamborghini, who had been constructing mid-engined road car since 1966.
Lamborghini was responsible for the construction of the spaceframe, which was
then shipped to Bauer for the fitting of the glassfibre body.Production was hampered
by this third-party setup. Especially the Italian link in the chain slowed production
down; Lamborghini did not have experience with production of the large quantities
BMW needed them to do. This meant homologation of the M1 for GT racing was still
quite some time away so BMW initiated a completely new series for the race version
of the M1 to race in. The one-make series, dubbed Procar, was coupled to the F1
calender and the races were run before each Grand Prix. The first five places
on the grid were taken by F1 drivers, driving BMW supplied M1s, the rest of the
field was filled with privateers.The M1s entered in the Procar series were modified
both externally and internally. Bigger wheel arches were fitted to make room for
the big slick tires fitted and a huge wing was mounted to ensure enough downforce
was generated. Under the body the most noticable difference was in engine performance,
output was increased from 277 bhp for the stock to 470 bhp for the Racer. Turbos
were fitted on a small number of later racers, increasing power to over 800 bhp!With
Lamborghini lagging behind, BMW outsourced production of the Procars to other
companies; Osella in Italy and Ron Dennis' Project Four were commisioned to build
fifteen cars each. Eventually Project Four built another ten M1 Procars and ran
the 1979 Championship winning Marlboro sponsored M1 for Niki Lauda.After two years
the Procar series was scrapped and this effectively ended the racing career of
the M1. With GT homologation not reached yet, the M1s were forced to run in the
prototype class against purpose-built racers. Best result of an M1 outside of
the Procar series was a sixth place finish in the 1979 24 Hours of LeMans. Eventually
over 400 M1s were constructed, but it was to late for the M1 to be a force in
GT-racing.The M1's pictured in action include the Niki Lauda M1 and one driven
by Nelson Piquet. Images of the static M1 and engine were made at the 2003 Techno
Classica, where a total of four M1s could be found on the BMW stand. BMW
E52 Z8 An almost endlessly long hood, large wheels, air scoops on
the side - looking at the beautiful body of the Z8 immediately evokes the glory
days of classic roadsters. You will harken back to the legendary BMW 507 of the
'50s, one of the most beautiful cars ever built. Designed by one of the star stylists
of his day, Albrecht Graf Goertz, this genuine classic saw an exclusive production
run of only 252 units. Like the 507 that inspired it, the Z8 will be produced
in tantalizingly small numbers. Indeed, an automotive dream of this caliber is
what happens when a team of passionate and enthusiastic designers and engineers
join up to create an exceptional automobile. Here they were given free rein to
build a truly emotional two seater, a car created for driving pleasure and evoking
immediate passion.In its basic design the BMW Z8 is characterized by classic roadster
features borne out by the long front fenders, short overhangs and the snug but
comfortable cockpit. The softly flowing lines of the wheel arches extend through
the wide doors to the short and powerful-looking rear end. And the air scoops
between the front wheel arches and the doors are a long standing BMW tradition.
The Z8 is a typical BMW from the front of course: Its wide kidney grille and compact
round xenon headlights beneath glass covers underline the traditional, typical
features of the marque. The view road users will most often see and remember is
the equally impressive rear end with body lines extending slightly downwards,
the diffuser and two tailpipes made of polished steel. A hardtop for the less
sunny days of the year, incidentally, comes standard.Developing the 'backbone'
of the Z8, BMW's engineers have opted for a new technology, an aluminum spaceframe
with structural panels. The outer skin of this elegant sports car, therefore,
is made largely of aluminum. The bumpers and the inner flanks at the rear are
made of polyurethane serving to softly cushion minor bumps and impacts against
the body. These elaborate materials ensure maximum chassis stiffness, optimum
behavior in a crash and superior smoothness, reducing vibrations to a minimum.
It almost goes without saying that high technology at its very best continues
beneath the skin of the BMW Z8. So it is no surprise that this top-of-the-line
sports car, built in limited numbers in Munich comes with the thrilling performance
of the V8 engine from BMW's E39 M5. BMW
E63 6 Series Coupe With its smooth and powerful engine, its outstanding
agility and abundant interior space, the new BMW 645Ci will set new standards
in the luxury sports coupe market on many fronts. A refined and powerful engine,
outstanding sportiness and ample interior space will set new standards in the
luxury sports coupé market.The new BMW 6 Series Coupé continues BMW's heritage
of the first 6 Series (1976 – 1989) and maintaining BMW's long tradition of large
luxury coupes. With the introduction of the all-new 6 Series Coupe, an icon is
reborn. BMW is not just continuing the heritage of the original 6 Series, it is
launching the modern expression of an icon, while paying homage to the company's
long tradition of luxury coupes.The new BMW 6 Series Coupé features:Innovative
lightweight construction with an aluminum/steel/composite body, and an all-aluminum
suspension,Dynamic Driving Control and Active Roll Stabilization,Available Active
Steering and Head-Up display,4.4-liter V8 VALVETRONIC engine for outstanding performance,Choice
of three different six-speed transmission options,Best-in-class equipment and
interior space.Crafted in Dingolfing, Germany, this spectacular new 6 Series will
be available for sale in the U.S. market in Spring 2004, after making its debut
at this year's Frankfurt Motor Show in September of 2003.Much like the original
BMW 6 Series and the BMW Z9 concept car, the new BMW 6 Series Coupe will be noticed
first for its looks. The styling is bold, purposeful, dynamic and elegant. Its
unique design has sleek and flowing lines, supplemented by the harmony of elegant
surfaces. The passenger cell features a very low roofline, while the contoured
styling of the front side panels helps stretch the silhouette of the car.Like
classic BMW coupes of the past, the new 6 Series Coupe excels in its classic proportions
- the car is long, low and wide. It projects an aura of strength and self-confidence.
The passenger cabin has a very low roofline and is set back on the chassis.The
modern design language of the exterior continues smoothly and consistently throughout
the interior. Similar to the new BMW 5 Series, all of the driving controls are
located directly on or around the steering wheel. Similarly, all comfort functions
are within easy reach from both front seats for convenience.Consistent use of
intelligent lightweight technologies makes a significant contribution to the outstanding
driving comfort and high level of agility for which the new 6 Series Coupe will
become well known. This class-leading agility is the result of the innovative
combination of aluminum, steel and synthetic materials throughout the body. The
front section of the car is significantly lighter than steel thanks to lightweight
construction. The targeted weight reduction continues throughout - the trunk lid
is composite, the hood and doors are aluminum and the front fenders are thermoplastic.
All this contributes to a base weight in European trim of 3528 lb with, of course,
weight distribution close to the perfect ratio of 50:50. This consistent reduction
of weight ensures not only performance befitting a sports car and exceptional
agility, but it also contributes to an outstanding level of fuel economy. BMW
E64 6 Series Convertible In principle, there's no doubt that "the
newcomer" is the worthy successor to the legendary Coupé from the 80s - the
6-series, with internal reference E63/E64, in any case has the potential of a
legend: performance, elegance and dynamics.Despite - or because of - the excellent
"basis", AC Schnitzer has developed a special accessories range which
perfects the 6-series Coupé and the 6-series Convertible in all respects. Because
we all know that in the end, nothing is so good that it can't be improved.In the
first stage of our developments, AC Schnitzer has adapted the alloy and racing
rims in Type II, Type III and Type IV design for the 6-series.As well as various
combinations in 19", the top versions of the Coupé and the Convertible can
be fitted with Type IV racing rims in 21". This gives the following wheel/tyre
combination: front 9.0J x 21" offset 14 with tyres 255/30 R 21 and rear 10.0J
x 21" offset 23 with tyres 295/25 R 21. With just this measure the driving
dynamics are perceptibly improved. AC Schnitzer recommends high performance tyres
from Continental and Michelin.In addition, the avant-garde AC Schnitzer Type IV
5-spoke wheels with their spokes running in a star from the pentagonal wheel centre,
and one dish per spoke, are an excellent match for the modern timeless design
of the 6-series. Optional chrome elements can be inserted in the dishes for extra
highlights.The driving properties become even more sporting with the AC Schnitzer
sports suspension which has undergone extensive tests on both public roads and
on the North Loop of the Nürburgring. As well as lowering by around 25 mm, this
suspension makes the 6-series sports-stiff with maximum comfort.Naturally, our
engineers and designers working in close collaboration have developed special
AC Schnitzer aerodynamic conversions for the Coupé and Convertible, consisting
of a front spoiler in the new sporting design, sports mirrors, side skirts, rear
spoiler and a rear skirt. The aerodynamic range is completed by the Chromeline
Set, which gives further chrome highlights if desired.Another brilliant highlight
which is perfectly integrated in the rear skirt is the twin sports rear silencer
system with its 2 chromed tailpipes in Trap-Ment style (combination of trapezium
and segment). This exhaust system naturally is not only an eyecatcher but also
optimizes exhaust gas flow, ensuring improved response and giving the V8 a particularly
sonorous "voice."Exclusivity is the also keyword in the cockpit: As
well as a carbon-fibre interior trim in "Exclusive Design" in silver
and an ergonomically designed airbag sports steering wheel, the aluminium accessories,
e.g. for the controller of the BMW "i-Drive system" and the pedal set
and footrests, provide finishing touches. BMW
E65 7 Series Short Wheel Base The E65/E66 automobile platform is
the basis for the 2002 through present BMW 7-series. It replaced the BMW E38 in
2002. E65 is the designation of the short wheel base version of the automobile,
and E66 is the designation of the long wheel base version.The arrival of this
model heralded a new styling era for BMW, the work of chief designer Chris Bangle,
with bold visual cues that did not premier on the scene without noted controversy
from E38 community. The E65/E66 seems to be gaining favor after its colorful arrival,
and it appears to be the gatekeeper for styling cues of future BMW models yet
to come.The most important innovation contained in the 7 is also the most controversial
one: the iDrive system. While able to manage a lot of functions -- on-board telematics,
including GPS navigation, Internet access and the new BMW Assist system (for emergencies),
as well as climate and stereo functions -- iDrive has a steep learning curve.
Basic adjustments can be made rather easily. BMW E66 7 Series long wheel baseThe
appeal of the new BMW E66 7 Series is literally extended by the long wheelbase
versions of the 735i and 745i models, suitably named 735Li and 745Li.The BMW 735i
with new optional Sport Package is the ideal expression of limousine comfort,
style and luxury with a subtle sporting edge.Externally, the 735i Sport bears
no traces typically associated with models fitted with sport kits. The approach
is low-key, aside from the brutally beautiful 19-inch or optional 20-inch light
alloy wheels that perfectly set the tone for this more focussed driver’s conveyance.The
735i Sport uses the 200 kW version of the famous BMW V8 VALVETRONIC engine.The
standard 19-inch light alloy rim is the V-spoke design. The rims are shod with
245/45 R 19 tyres at the front, and 275/40 R 19 tyres at the rear, wide enough
to both convert engine torque into traction and also hold the car firmly on the
road at elevated cornering speeds.Invisible to the naked eye, though tangible
to occupants, sports suspension settings are tuned to give a firmer ride and sharper
steering response.A leather-wrapped three-spoke sports steering wheel is standard.
It harmoniously melds the themes of luxury and performance inside the 735i Sport
cabin, enhanced by the addition of electrically adjustable sports seats and an
anthracite roof lining.The 735i Sport also enjoys a unique option of wood trim
in Vavona Grey Matt for a distinctive touch. Pearl Leather is lavished over seats
and door trims and is available in a choice of four shades, while the exterior
palette comprises Orient Blue, Titanium Silver, Slate Green, Sterling Grey, Black
Sapphire, Toledo Blue, Titanium Grey, Black II and Alpine White III. High Gloss
shadow line exterior trim also sets the 735i Sport apart from standard 7 Series
specification models.V12 BMW Flagship Redefines Super Limousine Class.All new
high-technology 6.0-litre V12,Class-leading power and smoothness,Luxury interior
trim with exquisite inlay finish,Roomiest cabin, highest levels of standard equipment,Range
of comfort and convenience features to personalise vehicle.The ultimate expression
of style, space and speed, the V12-powered long-wheelbase 760Li went on sale on
May 2003 and immediately met with a high level of interest from perhaps the most
discerning car buying audience in Australia.The BMW flagship comes complete with
an all-new 6.0-litre, 327 kW engine providing 600 Nm of torque and advances still
further the level of high technology and innovation inherent in the V8 powered
7 Series models.Priced from $332,400, the opulently equipped 760Li further entrenches
BMW’s leadership of the super limousine class with the unparalleled technical
excellence of the new generation 6.0-litre VALVETRONIC engine.BMW’s first engine
to feature direct petrol injection employs VALVETRONIC – electronic valve control
– four valves per cylinder, and along with continuously variable Bi-VANOS camshaft
control raises the benchmark for limousine smoothness combined with frugal fuel
consumption and low tailpipe emissions.The 60-degree N73B60 V12 engine produces
an athletic 327 kW of power at 6,000 rpm and a muscular 600 Nm of torque at 3,950
rpm.The 760Li reaches 100 km/h in just 5.6 seconds, providing smooth, rapid, linear
class-leading acceleration, unfettered by the response or delivery compromises
of forced induction. The 760Li is electronically limited to a top speed of 250
km/h.Despite its energetic dynamism, the V12 consumes only 13.6 ltr/100 km on
the combined EU cycle.With the use of advanced Lambda emission sensors the VALVETRONIC
DI engine is able to cope with high sulphur petrol without any loss of performance
or increased consumption. BMW
E83 X3 The BMW X3 was introduced in 2003, with some 6 cylinder engines.
Available were the 2.5 with 192 HP and the 3 litr with 231 HP. Also available
was a diesel with 204 HP. More engines, like the 2.2 litre 6 cilinder and the
2 litre diesel, are exptected to join the range around 2004. BMW
E90 3 Series The new 3 Series faces the daunting task of upstaging
what is the defining car of its generation and market sector. With engine technology
and a focused design strategy at its core, the new 3 Series looks set to do just
that. Once again, the new 3 Series sets a new benchmark for small executive cars
and I am confident it will be a great success in both the corporate and retail
markets," said Jim O'Donnell, managing director of BMW Great Britain.The
new BMW 3 Series delivers an even more dynamic driving experience than its predecessor,
accelerates faster and achieves a higher top speed but not to the detriment of
economy, with the new 330i delivering improvements in fuel consumption while the
320i and 320d match their predecessors.Powering the fifth generation of new BMW
3 Series is a range of engines all married to a standard six-speed manual gearbox
(six-speed automatic optional). Topping the range is the BMW 330i featuring the
most powerful, yet lightest, six-cylinder engine in its class - the same engine
that powers the recently launched BMW 630i Coupé. Delivering 258bhp and 300Nm
(221lb-ft) between 2,500 and 4,000rpm, this engine powers the car from zero to
62mph in just 6.3 seconds and on to a limited top speed of 155mph. However, this
is not at the expense of economy, with the new 330i delivering 33.5mpg combined
fuel consumption.These levels of performance are made possible by a number of
significant developments in engine design and construction. The engine sees BMW
use magnesium in its construction process for the first time in large-scale series
production. The crankcase jacket, bedplate and cylinder head cover are all made
from magnesium, which weighs 30 per cent less than aluminium.Additionally, the
new 3.0-litre unit is the first six-cylinder engine to feature BMW's patented
VALVETRONIC induction system. First seen on BMW's V8 engines and more recently
offered as standard on the Hams Hall four-cylinder petrol engines, VALVETRONIC
infinitely varies the intake valve opening times and, when combined with Bi-VANOS
variable camshaft timing, delivers the optimal fuel efficiency and engine response.Also
joining the six-cylinder model range in spring 2005 will be the 325i, delivering
218bhp at 6,500rpm and 250Nm (184lb-ft) at 2,750 - 4,250rpm.The new 3 Series range
will also feature a two-litre diesel and a two-litre petrol variant at launch.
The BMW 320d, currently the UK's most popular 3 Series model, features second-generation
common rail diesel technology and a variable vane turbocharger to deliver 163bhp
and 340Nm (251lb-ft) of torque. This provides the car with the best of all worlds.
Acceleration to 62mph is achieved in 8.3 seconds with a top speed of 140mph. While
delivering this level of performance, it also achieves 49.6mpg on the combined
cycle and, as an additional benefit to the company car driver, is EU4 compliant.The
engine in the new 320i is based on that of the outgoing 318i, but with enhancements
to the induction and exhaust systems. Also benefiting from BMW's VALVETRONIC and
Bi-VANOS systems, the new 320i offers 150bhp at 6,200rpm, with a maximum torque
of 200Nm (147lb-ft) achieved at 3,600rpm. This enables the car to accelerate to
62mph from standstill in 9.0 seconds, achieve a top speed of 136mph yet still
delivering a frugal 38.2mpg.Further four-cylinder 3 Series variants will follow
during the course of 2005.Ensuring that the power and torque remain in check is
the responsibility of the new DSC+ system (on six-cylinder models - standard DSC
on four-cylinder models). Effectively an evolution of the familiar DSC traction
control system, DSC+ offers a range of benefits, including Brake Standby that
pre-tensions the brakes when the driver quickly removes the pressure from the
accelerator pedal. Soft Stop is also incorporated which modulates the brake application
to prevent the nose of the car from 'diving' when travelling slowly. Also included
in DSC+ is a Start-Off Assistant that uses the clutch to prevent the car from
rolling back on a hill-start and a brake detector that ensures the discs are kept
dry and responsive on wet roads.Also assisting the car's agility is BMW's Active
Steering system, available for the first time in a car of this class. Previously
only available on larger 5 and 6 Series models, Active Steering is offered as
an option on six-cylinder models and resolves the conflict between low-speed agility
and higher-speed stability by delivering a speed-proportional steering ratio.
Active Steering also brings a number of key safety benefits. In conjunction with
the DSC+ system, if the car detects oversteer, Active Steering applies a small
amount of positive steering angle to bring the rear of the car back into line.
Additionally on the new 3 Series, when applying the brakes on a surface with differing
grip levels such as snow or ice, Active Steering intervenes to stabilise the car
more precisely and quickly than the driver is able to do manually.Supporting these
steering and traction control systems is a chassis that has been tuned to deliver
optimal driving dynamics on all road conditions. With BMW's trademark front engine
- rear-wheel-drive layout and near-perfect 50:50 weight distribution, the new
3 Series feels nimble and agile on the road. Its double-joint spring strut front
axle is made completely of aluminium, minimising the unsprung mass of the car
and reducing road noise. The new five-arm rear axle, first seen on the new BMW
1 Series, delivers excellent ride comfort.The new 3 Series body is stiffer yet
lighter than that of the outgoing model. Thanks to a new joint and crossbar arrangement
for the car's load-bearing structure, the bodyshell stiffness is increased by
25 per cent over its predecessor.The inherent rigidity of the steel bodyshell
enhances the new 3 Series' class leading safety levels. With the addition of six
airbags as standard, including curtain head airbags for front and rear occupants,
the car is expected to receive a five-star Euro NCAP rating. It is also one of
the first cars in the world that is fully prepared for the rigorous side impact
requirements in North America as well as the US high-speed rear impact test.Also
supporting these high standards of safety are a number of familiar systems from
other BMW models. Brake Force Display is standard for the first time on 3 Series
Saloon models, offering two stage brake lights. Brake lights illuminate normally
in average driving conditions but during an emergency stop or when the ABS braking
cuts in, the area of brake light illumination increases to warn those travelling
behind of the situation ahead.Adding further to safety levels are Run-flat tyres,
available for the first time on 3 Series models. Like the 1, 5 and 6 Series models,
Run-flat tyres are offered as standard, and with the recent developments in Run-flat
technology, the car can now be driven for an astonishing 150 miles at 50mph with
up to four punctured tyres. This allows the driver to complete almost any journey
before replacements need to be sought.Like the levels of standard and safety equipment,
the proportions of the car have also grown over its predecessor. Measuring 4,520mm
(+49mm) in length, 2,760mm (+35mm) in wheelbase, 1,817mm (+78mm) in width and
1,424mm (+9mm) in height, the new BMW 3 Series offers a spacious and light cabin.
With occupants cosseted by their surroundings, a driver-orientated dashboard layout
places all the primary controls at the driver's fingertips while the secondary
controls are conveniently and ergonomically accessible. Rear occupants benefit
from an increase in head, shoulder, elbow and leg room. BMW
M-Series The first M series was introduced in 1979. This was the
M1. It had a six cylinder engine with 277 HP. In that same year the M535i was
introduced. This four doormodel had 218 HP. In 1981 the M1 and M535i went out
of production. In 1983 the M6 was introduced. It had a six cylinder engine with
286 HP. In 1984 a new M535i was introduced. In 1985 the M5 came available and
in 1986 the M3 was introduced.In 1988 the M3 convertible came available and the
M5 went out of production. In 1989 the M3 received a new engine and the E34 M5
was introduced. The M6 went out of production. In 1992 the new M3 coupe was introduced.
The M5 received a new engine. In 1994 the M3 sedan and M3 convertible came available.
In 1995 the M5 went out of production. In 1996 the M3 received a new engine. In
1997 the M3 sedan went out of production and in 1998 the M coupe and the M roadster
were introduced. This was also the same year that the E39 M5 was introduced. In
1999 the last E36 M3 was build. In 2000 the new E46 M3 will be introduced. BMW
X-Series The E53 X5 was the first X series available. It was introduced
in 1999 and available with a 4.4 litre V8, producing 286 HP. That same year, a
3 litre 6 cylinder with 231horses was added. The X5 proved to be a huge succes,
so in 2001 BMW added a 3 litre diesel and a 4.6is with 350 HP came available in
2002. Although not needed,BMW thought it was time for a facelift, which came available
at the end of 2003,along with a new 4.4 litre V8, an updated 3 litre diesel and
a whole new 4.8is. BMW
Z3 When BMW was introducing Z3 back in 1996 everybody was shocked
by the aggressive styling of this German 2-seater. Everybody thought then that
the Z3 is a very beatiful car to say the least. The significant thing, though,
about the Z3 is that even now more than 4 years after its initial introduction
it remains wonderfully beautiful. The Z3 has proved to be an instant classic.The
Z3's engines and road manners come second to its styling. Almost nobody seems
to care about them. It seems to us that the Z3 would sell even without an engine.Powered
initialy only by the not-so-powerful 1.8 lt. and 1.9 lt. engines, two new engines
have been added to the Z3's lineup: A 193 bhp 2.8 lt engine and the superb 3.2
lt 321 bhp unit powering the Z3 M version.Late 1998 saw the introduction of the
Z3 Coupe, a car that for some loses the magic of the styling of the original cabrio
version. For others, though, it is a still more beautiful car than its cabrio
sister. Above all the coupe version is not a car of logic. It is car of passion.Late
1999 brought a slight facelift of the back end and the back wheel arches. The
car is now even more a classic than before and looks certainly set to keep looking
fresh for many more years. A 150hp 2.0lt engine was also added to the line-up
replacing the 1.9 engine. BMW
Z4 The BMW Z4 is a 2-door, rear wheel drive roadster. The Z4 began
production in 2003, and replaced the BMW Z3. The design addresses many criticisms
of the Z3; the Z4 is larger, more powerful, and has a significantly stiffer chassis.The
Z4 was designed by Chris Bangle and began the controversy over his "flame
surfacing" design and aggressive styling choices, which can also be seen
on modern BMW 7-series and BMW 5-Series cars.While the Z4's front suspension is
essentially the same as the Z3's, the rear suspension is considerably different
from its predecessor's, which was based on that of the E30 BMW 3-Series. Instead
of a semi-trailing arm suspension, the Z4 uses a more advanced Multi-link suspension.An
M Roadster version will be offered in 2006.The Z4 offers a choice of three straight-six
engines: A 2.2 L, a 2.5 L, and a 3.0 L. The 2.2 L, 120 kW (170 bhp) version can
reach 100 km/h in 7.7 s, but is not sold in the United States. All are variants
of the BMW M54 engine.The 2.5 L engine produces 141 kW (184 bhp) at 6000 rpm.
BMW claims a 7.0 s time to 100 km/h (62 mph) with a manual transmission. It weighs
1,335 kg (2,932 lb) with a manual transmission—30 kg (66 lb) lighter than the
3.0 L version, but still heavier than the 2.5 L Z3's weight of 1315 kg (2899 lb).The
3.0 L, 170 kW (231 bhp) (at 5900 rpm) straight six has a claimed time to 100 km/h
(62 mph) of 5.9 s.Five-speed manual gearboxes are standard on all models except
the 3.0 L car, which has a 6-speed. 5-speed automatic or 6-speed SMG transmissions
are available on all cars.A Sport package is also available, which adds stiffer
and lower suspension, larger wheels with run-flat tires, and Dynamic Driving control,
BMW's Vehicle Stability Control system. BMW
Z8 The BMW Z8 was a convertible sports car automobile produced by
BMW from 1999 to 2003. It was given the E52 BMW model code.The Z8 originated from
a prototype designated Z07, which was designed by Henrik Fisker at BMW's Designworks
in Southern California. It was showcased at the Tokyo Auto Show in 1997. The car
was originally designed as a styling exercise to both echo and celebrate the BMW
507 of the 1950s for its 50th birthday.The overwhelming popularity of the prototype
show-car led to the decision to put the car into limited production, to be designated
Z8. The car was featured in the James Bond movie The World Is Not Enough in late
1999. About 5700 Z8s were built, with about half of them exported to the USA.The
$130,000 car had an all aluminum chassis and body and used the same 5.0 litre(4941cc),
400 horsepower (300 kW) 32 valve V8 S62 motor built by the BMW Motorsports subsidiary,
as the E39 M5. Performance specs touted a 0 to 100 km/h (0 to 62 mph) time of
4.7 s, which was later tested at 4.2 s by Motor Trend magazine. Car and Driver
magazine also tested the car and found that it outperformed the benchmark Ferrari
360 Modena in the main three performance categories: acceleration, handling and
braking. The Z8 held BMW's production car performance records for several years.For
the 2003 (and last) model year, the Z8 model was augmented by the Alpina V8 Roadster.
Instead of the original manual six speed M5 (S62) motor featured in earlier Z8's,
it came as an automatic, using a 5-speed STEPTRONIC transmission with an upgraded
4.8 L Alpina tuned V8 motor from the X5 SUV. Only 550 of these were built. This
special edition of the Z8 was sold directly through BMW's American dealerships,
marking a first for Alpina, whose cars had never been sold in the USA before. |