Mar

7

The Race Car Inspired BMW M3

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German premier automotive maker BMW continues to maintain its hold as the top selling luxury auto brand in the world. Battling with archrival Mercedes-Benz year in and year out for the highest laurels, BMW continues to constantly tweak its existing line and add new vehicles to its line in a bid to stimulate and strengthen customer interest. One area where BMW has found much of its recent success is with its race car inspired line of vehicles, the M Series. Since 1979 various Motorsports [M} tags have been affixed to vehicles that have been developed by the BMW Motorsports division, including the BMW M3 a car based on BMW's popular 3 Series. Today, BMW engineers are hard at work on developing an all new BMW M3 and, if all of the auto buzz is correct, very few cars will be able to keep up with this 400 hp road commander. Please keep reading for a closer look at the all new, soon to be released, BMW M3.

A pitched battle in autodom continues to gather force pitting German automaker against German automaker. Legendary Mercedes-Benz is taking on heralded BMW for the right to call themselves the top selling luxury brand in the world. For years, the honor belonged exclusively to Mercedes-Benz, but a recent stumble on Mercedes' part coupled with a surge of new products from BMW has placed BMW in first place. Not far behind the two is Lexus, the luxury division of Toyota, but for now the battle remains a fight between these two German automakers.

For luxury car enthusiasts, the BMW-Mercedes rivalry has been a win-win battle as both automakers have been pouring engineering funds into their vehicles. Neither automaker is resting on their past achievements; instead both are pressing forward to add the latest safety features including Mercedes' Night Vision Assist and BMW's impact absorbing bumpers which absorb stronger impacts without damaging the vehicle's main body. Safety is one of the chief concerns for consumers when selecting a particular luxury brand according to all of the leading automotive industry surveys.

For BMW, its latest automotive project has been a closely guarded secret until very recently. Camouflaged spy shots of the all new BMW M3 have been circulating on the internet for some time now but only since June has a pre-production version of a fully unclothed BMW M3 been spotted. It was seen navigating the twisting roads of Southern California according to The Car Connection, the vehicle information and shopping site.

For BMW enthusiasts, news of a BMW M3 pre-production sighting means one thing: BMW will soon announce the date in 2007 when its latest M Series car will be available in dealer showrooms.

Right now, the current BMW M3 is still based on the fourth generation 3 Series which was replaced in 2006. The new BMW M3 will be based on the latest generation body frame and feature some notable improvements over the previous BMW M3 model including:

A larger, more potent V8 engine with an output of 400 horses. Currently, the BMW M3 features an inline six engine with a 333 horsepower output. The new model is expected to rocket from start to 60 in under 5 seconds, topping out at 155 mph.

A six or possibly seven speed manual transmission.

A longer wheelbase for better weight distribution.

Styling cues from the BMW M3 will find its way to the new model from front wing vents to twin exit exhausts along with the ubiquitous M series recognized emblems.

For Mercedes enthusiasts they can point to the soon to be released 2007 C Class, which is the direct competitor for the BMW 3 Series, as evidence that DaimlerChrysler will not let BMW out of its crosshairs anytime soon. A new AMG [motorsport] version of the C Class will follow, ratcheting up what is certain to a pitched battle to be enjoyed by compact luxury car devotees worldwide.

Additional competitors to the BMW M3 include the Cadillac CTS-V, the Audi RS4, and the Lexus IS. Prices have not been set for the new M3, but they can be expected to top out at around $60,000 fully equipped.

Copyright 2006-2012 -- Matthew C. Keegan is a freelance automotive writer covering classic, current, and future models. He manages Auto Trends, a website covering concept cars and automotive technology.

Author: Matthew Keegan
Article Source: EzineArticles.com
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Mar

6

BMW X5 – What You Must Know About This Refined Vehicle

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If you have ever visited a BMW vehicle lot, you were likely confronted with numerous unique models. They all appeared great, you did not know which one to select. Nevertheless, have you ever examined the BMW X5? Do this, walk into a BMW dealership near you and ask to see the BMW X5.

Interior Design

The BMW X5 is a mid-size luxury crossover SUV sold by BMW since 1999. Now a good six years into its life cycle, the BMW X5 is headed for a redesign. The 2006 BMW X5 is a solid performer, with all-wheel drive and plenty of power from the optional v-8. To keep the drivers and passengers safe, the 2008 BMW X5 is equipped with crash activated headrests.

You will observe the streamlined interior as well as the colorful exterior. It comes with all the add ons, if you prefer, that make life on the road as comfy as possible. With a smooth ride and plenty power to get you to wherever you need to go, and in style.

All you have to do is locate a BMW dealership close to you. The BMW is so renowned, it genuinely is a status symbol today, that there are BMW dealerships all over. You are likely to find one, or still several, BMW dealerships near you. Just stroll in and let them know that you wish to look at a BMW X5. Just by mentioning that, you will be allowing the dealer realize that you are aware of precisely what you desire and what you want is a superior machine.

The chief attribute of the BMW X5 is its size as the vehicle can carry five passengers comfortably and all of the stuff needed to transport them to their various activities. Magnitude that can be measured; with a capacity of up to 1750 litres, the luggage compartment of the new BMW X5 is an exemplary combination of versatility and volume.

When a person is living well financially, and we all have our own degrees of success, we like to express that success in various ways. The drivers of the BMW X5 parade their success in the selection of their automobile. The BMW X5 was built with precision and style in mind and all of that is evident the moment you turn the engine over.

Practicality

A five-seater as standard, this car is also available with an optional folding third row of seats to convert it into a seven-seater. The BMW X5 is practical and spacious for a family vehicle and would suit the rigors of family life well. The BMW X5 is exceptionally stable for a vehicle of its height. Not only is it a revolution in bmw design and development, the BMW X5 is also one of the most powerful in its range.

The BMW X5 is constructed solely in South Carolina, but likely the diesel engine does not meet the rigorous us government [epa] pollution requirements. BMW X5 is fitted with a computer chip to give the temperature, gas mileage, an approximation of how long the gas will last. The new BMW X5 is the only car in the segment available with both active steering and adaptive drive (a combination of active roll stabilization and electronic damping control), designed by BMW, as well as the first in its category to be furnished with runflat tires as standard equipment.

You can listen to the soft hum of all that power underneath the front hood. Whatever characteristics you prefer, or if you select them all, you will find that just being behind the wheel of your new car is different than many cars on the market. You will realize you really enjoy driving, that you savor being behind the wheel of this extraordinary car.

Features and Cost

An additional option of note is the supplementation of the optional park distance control, the new BMW X5 is available with a backup camera: a video system which eases parking maneuvers particularly in enclosed areas or spots with poor visibility. The BMW X5 is a can be a costly car to buy, and the options that are offered would raise the price yet higher if the purchaser wished these options on their vehicle. However, generally people looking to buy a BMW have the means to afford these extra amenities.

Seek out a BMW dealership close to you and let them know exactly what you want. Simply by asking for the X5, can you sincerely demonstrate to the dealer that you are serious about your research. You went in there with one goal in mind and that is to purchase the best car on the market. You went in there to purchase the BMW X5 and when you at long last drive it off the vehicle lot, you will recognize why so many individuals select the X5 as their choice of premium motor vehicle.

Listen to Korbin Newlyn as he shares his insights as an expert author and an avid writer in the automotive field. If you would like to learn more go to BMW Dealership Comparison Guide advice and at BMW Raleigh tips.

Author: Korbin Newlyn
Article Source: EzineArticles.com
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Mar

5

BMW – All Car History Volume 16

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BMW is one of the world's leading manufacturers of quality cars and motorbikes and is the parent company of the MINI and Rolls-Royce car brands. The acronym BMW stands for "Bayerische Motoren Werke" - or "Bavarian Motor Works" in English.

BMW models are categorised based on what "Series" the car model is, for example, the 3 Series. BMW has a long history in motor racing, having been involved in motorsport since the creation of the first BMW motorcycle.

BMW HISTORY
BMW was founded in 1913 to make aircraft engines, shifting to motorbike production in 1923 and cars in 1929. Its factories were damaged during WWII and machine tools were confiscated by the Allies. BMW gradually recovered and in 1967 bought company Hans Glas GmbH, one of whose plants was to become the largest BMW factory.

BMW bought the Rover Group in 1994, selling MG, Rover & Land Rover in 2000 but retaining the rights to build the new MINI, launched in 2001.

BMW FACTS

  • Type: Public company
  • Founded: 1913
  • Headquarters: Munich, Germany
  • Key People: Dr. Norbert Reithofer, Chairman
  • Industry: Automotive
  • Products: Automobiles, Motorcycles
  • Subsidiaries: MINI, Rolls-Royce

FEATURED MODELS

  • BMW 3 SERIES - a compact executive car made since 1975, the BMW 3 Series has been produced over five different generations and many different bodystyles. It is BMW's best selling car
  • BMW 5 SERIES - a mid-size luxury car made since 1972, the BMW 5 Series is now in its fifth generation and is made in both saloon and touring body styles
  • BMW M3 - a high performance version of the compact BMW 3-Series
  • BMW M5 - a high-performance version of the BMW 5-Series made by
    BMW Motorsport
  • BMW X3 - a compact luxury SUV advertised by BMW as an SAV, or 'Sport Activity Vehicle' based on the BMW 3-Series platform
  • BMW X5 - a mid-sized luxury SUV sold by BMW since 1999, featuring four-wheel

DID YOU KNOW?

  • In 1956, the BMW 507 sports car was introduced but only a total of 252 were built. Most of the work was carried out by hand and the cars were individually customised to meet each buyer's wishes
  • The BMW Z3 was introduced in 1996 shortly after being featured in the James Bond film "GoldenEye"
  • In the 1990s BMW returned to making aircraft engines in a joint venture with Rolls Royce PLC
  • In 1992, BMW outsold Mercedes for the first time in Europe
  • In 2001, BMW introduced a BMW Films website, showing its sporty models being driven to extremes, but took the website offline in October 2005. The short films were directed by the likes of Guy Ritchie

Auto Trader World of Cars [http://cars.autotrader.co.uk], Main Fact Finder Index [http://cars.autotrader.co.uk/fact-finder]

Author: Luke B Scott
Article Source: EzineArticles.com
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Mar

4

BMW History

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Karl Friedrich Rapp is the name of the founder of BMW - one of the biggest world wide car manufacturing companies. BMW or Bayerische Motoren Werke (Bavarian Motor Works) was founded in 1916 as a successor to the Rapp Motor.

Many people think that the logo of BMW comes from a spinning white propeller seen in the background of the blue sky. This may be so but in fact it is known that it also comes from the white and blue flag of Bavaria - the largest state of Germany. The capital city of the state is Munich and this is the place where even today we can find the BMW Headquarters.

In 1916 with the foundation of the company a contract was secured for building V12 engines. These engines were about to be used in the creation of the automobiles from Austro-Daimler. These 12 cylinders V engines were at first used in aircrafts which is the original plan of the BMW Company. Taking in account the time when the company was founded it was very likely for them to continue like that.

However in 1919 after the World War I and the Treaty of Versailles the production of aircraft in Germany was prohibited and that quickly changed the politics of BMW. They began making brakes for the Rail transport. Soon after that BMW was able to design a motorcycle engine which was used for the creation of a motorcycle called with the model name Victoria. However Victoria was not built by BMW but by another company in Nuremberg.

In 1924 BMW made a model of a motorcycle which was the first one they built - the R32. This was a turning point in the BMW history because it was a major achievement and for decades they used its technology - 500 cc engines cooled down by the air. Soon after that BMW added one new innovation - the driveshaft. It came to replace the chain for driving the rear wheel and became a mark of BMW for quite some time.

In the German city Eisenach in 1927 began the production of Dixi - under license but only a year after that the Dixi Company was bought by BMW and they began mass production together with the model Austin Seven.

When the World War I began BMW took its place in it because of the German army's motorized division. They used BMW R75 together with BMW R12. Because of the high need of engines BMW note that period as highly profitable. BMW was the main supplier and even today words like Luftwaffe and Wehrmacht brings many memories. Some of the best planes in that historical time used the BMW aero-engines and till the 1945 more than 30 000 planes with these engines were manufactured.

BMW even made researches which enabled the company to make different jet engines for weapons. With the use of some men power consisting mainly by prisoners of the war BMW made many rocket-based weapons that were used in the war.

Soon after the creation of the rocket-based weapons parts of the company were bombed. Soviets razed to the ground most of the company located in eastern Germany and the base factory in Munich was almost completely destroyed.

After the war BMW was not able to quickly recover because of the need to rebuild the factory in Munich. After that when the restrictions from the Allies applied BMW was banned for three long years in which the company was forbidden from producing motorcycles until 1948 and cars until 1952.

In 1951 the Bavarian company was able to regain all trademarks and it looked like it was finally able to recover and start again from what was left. In 1959 Herbert Quandt became the "wheel" which turned the BMW around because he denied a deal with Daimler-Benz and soon after that he increased his share in the BMW Company up to 50%.

The name of Kurt Golda is stated as the man who incited Quandt to do this step and in the same year BMW began production of the BMW 700 which was based on the BMW 600. This small car used 2-cylinder, air-cooled engines and some years later it was renamed to "LS". Coupe and some cabriolet series were also manufactured.

In 1963 BMW offered dividends to the shareholders of the company and in 1966 the factory in Munich reached its maximum capacity and BMW bought Hans Glas GmbH. This deal enabled BMW to use factories in Landshut and Dingolfing.

With some new style provided by Bertone in 1972 BMW began production of 5 new series and in the years to follow the company made a big progress in the market. For 6 years under the leadership of Bernd Pischetsrieder BMW was able to expand its deal in the market by buying from British Aerospace the Rover Group. Rover Group's history starts in 1986 and till the moment when BMW owned it this company was able to achieve many things like for example the Rover 400 in 1990.

However the Rover was sold to Phoenix Venture Holdings and Ford Motor Company because of some years of losses for BMW. Jokingly the press called the Rover "The English Patient" after the release of the namesake film. This however was not very hard on BMW and they were spared from taking the blame. It looks like that even the British press was not very enthusiastic about the Rover.

BMW began production outside of Germany in 1994. New factories were made in South Carolina and even today the manufacturing of BMW X5 and BMW Z4 is made there. There are factories in some other places too like Oxford, Goodwood and others. After some time of assembly BMW began production in South Africa. Today BMW exports more than 50 000 3 Series vehicles yearly to Japan, USA, Africa, Australia and the Middle East.

In order to serve the market in Eastern Europe and Middle East BMW are planning to begin construction of a new plant located in Cyprus or Greece. A plant in Chennai, India already opened production in 2007.

More information on BMW Parts And Accessories

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Article Source: EzineArticles.com
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Feb

23

Quick Installation Process To Change A Mini Cooper OEM

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In this article we shall see How to Replace a Mini Cooper Radio. Cooper is one of the best cars for those who prefer small trendy cars and it comes with a good audio system also. However many would prefer replacement of the original to upgrade the features like adding a stereo that is more powerful.

We can get this job done through an audio professional. The best choice would be to do the job ourselves and save money by understanding this article. The list of things needed to do this job are screw driver( philips), wrench, faceplate adapter, removal tool for trim panel.

Undo the connection of the negative cable in the battery. This can be done with the help of a wrench. Cup-holder has to be drawn out. There will be two screws provided in the holders. This has to be removed with the help of a screw-driver.

The first step would be removal of battery cable. For this we can use a wrench. This makes the clamp loose after which cable can be disconnected. The cup holder is then pulled. Now with the help of screw drive we loosen and remove screws in it.

Then, the faceplate adapter is inserted inside the opening that is left when the radio was removed. The groups of wires are again fed back into the adapter. The groups of wires from car are connected to the harness adapter. This harness is well marked that make it easy for the connections to be made. They may be with colour codes or abbreviations. Then, the leads of harness adapter are connected to the stereo unit that is new. The stereo is pushed in the opening in faceplate adapter.

The mounting has to be fixed back again. Again we make use of wrench to tighten the screw and connections. Similarly we need to tighten screws of trim panels also. Remember we need to put back the mirror heater and cup holder which were removed initially. This can be done by hand itself. Then the dash panel is also put back. It is usually found near steering. This replacement is also done by hands only. The glove box is finally closed.

The cable with negative battery is again plugged back. Next the post has to be clamped. For this we have to make the clamp firm and tight for which we can use the same wrench again. Clamp has to fixed firmly so that it does not move when disturbed by hand. This completes the removal of radio of mini cooper. There is an important thing which has to be taken care of. The size of a single DIN is around 180 mm and breadth is 50 mm. It is only this size of stereo which correctly fits the audio system and dash board of mini cooper. So check that before buying.

Thus this article has guided How to Replace a Mini Cooper Radio.

Learn more about Autoradioblende. Stop by Author Name\'s site where you can find out all about fascia plate and what it can do for you.

Feb

17

Help And Advice With Car Leasing

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Over the past few years, Car Leasing has begun to become a popular method of obtaining a new car. However, as the process is still in it\'s infancy, many people are still unsure or misinformed as to how exactly it works and may not be getting themselves the best deal they can.

When you lease a car, you are renting it from the car dealer for a period generally between two and four years - at no point will you ever actually own the car. Some see this as a drawback, though the flip side of this is you will not be affected by the fact the minute you turn the ignition in your new car, it\'s already losing value. This residual value is also used to work out your monthly payments therefore it\'s useful to know which makes and models hold this better.

Lease an Audi

Most stockists will be able to lease you up-to-date models. First off there is the varied A3 range which blends an adventurous sense of judgement with outstanding design. The array of A4s comprises of the 4-door saloon, the spacious Avant, and the stylish and sporty Cabriolet. The recently launched A5 is also one to watch out for. If you are looking for something a little more snappy and sporty the TT Coupe and TT Roadster are renowned for their cool design and top notch performance.

BMW Leasing

There are a number of quality BMWs you should consider for a good car leasing deal. From the 1 series 5 door hatch to the 7 series 730d Sport, there\'ll be something to suit every taste. 320i and 325i 2 door coupes are the pick of the 3 series whilst the 325i convertible and 335i 3.0 litre Touring also stand out. If fashion and comfort are your criteria try the 520d 4 and 5 door saloons from the 5 series, whilst the Z4 roadster is ideal for cruising in the summer.

Mercedes Car Leasing

Whichever class you choose from, you cannot go wrong where a Mercedes is concerned. All tastes and budgets are covered starting with the A Class 5 door hatch and the CLS Class Couple. Up from this you should consider the sports tourer, Coupes and Estates from the B Class. Next up you could try the C Class saloons or for the traditional style and performance try the E Class. The top of the range sees the R Class and high spec SLK Roadster - with Mercedes you really are spoilt for choice.

Lease a Volkswagen

The broad selection of VW cars start with the Caravelle, the stylish Polo and ever popular Beetle. These are good to drive and offer stunning refinement given their size. The Golf hatchback is now accessible as an estate. Going through the range the larger car choices include the Jetta, Passat saloon and 7 seaters Touran and Sharan. The Eos is a trendy coupe cabriolet that exhibits Volkswagen\'s world class build quality.

Car Leasing UK offers a wide range of leasing options on Audi, VW, Mercedes and BMW Car Leasing. To find your best Car Leasing Deals, visit our website and get in touch for more information.

categories: audi,volkswagen,bmw,mercedes,car leasing,cars,autos,finance,leasing,consumer

Jan

20

How To Lower Your Bill With BMW Car Rental

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Do you have the plan to rent a car on your vacation days? It would be an opportunity to see if someday you'll own the car while getting behind the wheel for the moment. Then why not include in your list of options the services of BMW car rental?

One of the car segments that can be related to luxury, speed and power is the Bayerische Motoren Werke or the BMW. It is believed that this car is worth splurging. Not just because it has sporty look but because it is believed to be powerful enough and you will be pleased riding in it.

Regularly, you can expect reasonable prices with BMW rental. To compare that to your previous experience before in car rental, high rates was there. That is happening during summers since people are finding ways to tour. So if you want to lessen your travel expense, there are ways to do it.

First, the best thing with cheap car rentals, the price line can let you save up to 40 percent. But if you are quite shopping around for prices, you will realize that this is an understatement for most of the markets. You can actually save for initial quotes with over 60 percent. If you want bidding strategies in the price, you can definitely search it here in the internet. That's the significant thing about price lines.

Upon knowing about the insurance, think if you really will need it or maybe not at all because most car rental companies can let you reach 40 percent for the entire cost already. That's a cheaper market that actually accounted for 25 or 30. See? It is likely more cash to credit for them. Try also to check the sufficient coverage for insurance company because it will lessen too your expense.

Don't go anymore buying for the liability coverage. You after all won't need that really just an extra cost for you to watch out.

BMW centers servicing also have staffs that are capable for diagnosing the capability of the car you'll need. Some companies are providing the guarantee and if you want to find those companies, it's quite simple. Majority of the care services centers do have pages in the web.

Rental of BMW's can happen this way:

1. Yellow pages and Internet are present. You can call agencies you have read if it's available for BMW. You compare prices then select which of them best meet the rental needs you want.

2. Find also the age requirement in their policy. Some of those companies limit people to borrow under 25 years old and some 21 above requirements.

3. Ask about their cancellation policy. You don't surely want to simply provide your credit card number.

4. Choose the destination where you would wish to drop the rent car or even where to pick it up. Some companies charges actually for drop-off.

5. When the booking of rental is made, proceed to rate checking if they are guaranteed. And prepare additional percent charge in foreign countries.

6. Inspect BMW that you booked before you pull it out the agency parking lot. If you see scratches, broken lights, dents or anything that bothers you for possible unsafe driving, report it.

Once you have completed searching about BMW car rental, you can find a good deal for your travel itineraries.

A wide selection of vehicles is provided to satisfy your needs for car rentals. Choose from economy, standard and intermediate sizes including pickup trucks for your next BMW rental Toronto.

categories: car rental,bmw cars,rental companies,renting cars,automobiles,vehicle rental,vehicles,cars,BMW,autos,used cars

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