BMW 325i Keeping Other Cars Jealous

The BMW 325i is yet another breakthrough in the automotive industry. And it comes from one of the most powerful automobile manufacturers the world over. It has the capacity to roar and get waves and nods from other people around. This vehicle actually has a seamless six speed automatic transmission and it proves that it is graceful and has lithe and speed. It has a engine that holds six inline cylinders. It has refinement. It has a balanced handling. In performance, it is unparalleled.

It has flared and aggressive lines along with less ostentatious design compared to its sibling, the BMW Z4. Take a ride inside the BMW 325i and you would find a similar balance of avant-garde style as well as very good ergonomics. It also has simple and very straightforward controls that not only provides easy access but lessens the confusion for drivers. The controls come in flowing shapes and have been crafted using quality materials. Aside from those mentioned, the BMW 325i has front sports seats that could very well support each and every passenger. Adjustable side bolters are also added in.

BMW claims that the BMW 325i's highlights are just what would be needed to further the capacity and capabilities of this vehicle. There is a six speed STEPTRONIC. It is an automatic transmission that provides a choice of three modes. These modes are the "Drive" automatic (it incorporates BMW's Adaptive Transmission Control); "Sport" automatic (this is used for a more dynamic shift pattern); and the STEPTRONIC automatic (which is a hands-on control of a manual transmission without the use of a clutch).

There also is the BMW Assist with Bluetooth Wireless Technology. This is a wireless communication system. It includes the capacity to work with the Automatic Collision Notification, the Emergency Request, the enhanced Roadside Assistance, and the Stolen Vehicle Recovery services. This technology is actually standard if you would choose the BMW Assist option. This technology also enables connection of mobile phones to a vehicle for a hands free calling.

Features for the BMW 325i include an electronic throttle control, the Dynamic Stability Control, the Comfort Stop, the Brake Fade Compensation, the Dynamic Traction Control, an extensive aluminum componentry, a double-pivot type front suspension with dual forged aluminum lower arms, front and rear anti-roll stabilizer bars, a flat tire warning indicator, halogen high-beam and low-beam headlights, fog lights, heated dual power mirrors, 8-way adjustable front seats, leatherette upholstery, an anti-theft AM/FM stereo with CD and MP3 player with ten speakers, and an auxiliary audio input for portable music players.

BMW 3-Series - A Brief History For Buyers

The BMW 3 Series is a vehicle that is popular across the Globe and it made BMW an Auto Industry giant.

A brief history of the 3 Series is highlighted below.

1600-2002 - 1966 to 1976

BMW almost faced bankruptcy with the 1500 and the decision was taken to launch a smaller family saloon and delivered the 1600-2002 series that itself become an auto legend proving to be a big success for the German carmaker. The BMW 1600 could reach 60mph in 13 seconds and the BMW 2002 Turbo was the first European turbo-charged power plant.

Thousands of the 1600-2002 series rolled off the production lines until its demise in 1976 - what followed would not only amaze the motoring world but BMW also!

BMW 3 Series - 1976 to 1982

What followed was the BMW 3 Series, a car that rewrote the rules for the compact saloon. The early models came with 1.6 and 1.8 litre engines but thanks to a weight of just over 1000kgs a lively drive was guaranteed.

The launch model was the BMW 320i with a four cylinder engine giving 125bhp with independent suspension.

At the 1977 Frankfurt motor show the BMW 323i was launched with the first of the six cylinder engines. The six cylinder produced 143bhp and with the help of cutting edge electronics helped the deliver an average of 21mpg. The cars success amazed BMW and by the close of 1982 over one million BMW 3 series had left the factory.

BMW 3 Series - 1983 to 1990

The second generation BMW 3 series left other cars in its segment far behind. It was lighter, had increased interior space and a larger range of more powerful engines than the first generation.

The straight-six cylinder 2.5-litre unit developed 171bhp - just 50bhp less than a 2008 BMW 325i two-door coupe and was capable of 135mph.

More was to come at the 1985 Frankfurt motor show in when BMW revealed the very first M-powered 3 Series - the BMW M3.

The M3 established BMW's reputation as the number one manufacturer of cars for drivers! This car won every single Touring Car Championship in the world in the late 1980's.

The second generation reached just over two million units produced during its production run.

BMW 3 Series - 1990 to 1998

The third-generation BMW 3 Series proved to be another huge seller for the Munich-based carmaker. The design saw massive improvements in engineering and chassis development including the latest design of the Z rear axle set-up.

An array of body styles were launched, including the Touring estate, four door, convertible and coupe - the rebadged two door model. The real anticipation was for the hardcore M3 in a fresh, new body.

BMW didn't disappoint with a high-revving 3 litre six cylinder producing 286bhp in favour of the old 2.5 litre.

In 1995 the M3 Evolution was produced with a 3.2 litre six cylinder engine producing a massive 321bhp giving a 0-60mph of 5.4 seconds.

And while this M3 may have lacked the racing pedigree of the original, it was a hit with buyers. More than 2.7 million third generation 3 Series were sold, and of these, 70,000 were M3s.

BMW 3 Series - 1998 to 2005

This generation of 3 Series boasted a full 12cm of extra legroom than the original model and continued the massive success built by the previous generations and as proof more than three million fourth generation BMW 3 Series were sold.

The fourth generation BMW 3 Series was to prove the power of diesel to the world with the BMW 330d delivering 184bhp and more than 40mpg. Also the 320d with its 2 litre 150bhp engine became the biggest selling vehicle in BMW's range.

The fourth generation BMW M3 came with a 3.2-litre straight-six unit developing 343bhp giving a 0-60mph in 5 seconds with a top speed of 155mph.

BMW 3 Series - 2005 to date

In 2005 the fifth generation BMW 3 series was launched with improved handling and a new line of engines both diesel and petrol. The new 3 litre unit gives 272bhp whilst the twin-turbocharged 3 litre diesel engine puts out an impressive 286bhp.

The latest generation M3 has been produced with a V8 power-plant constructed from aluminium.

The result is 420bhp and 0-62mph in just 4.8 seconds, making this the fastest and most powerful production M3 ever.

A Road Test And Review Of The BMW 120i M Sport

The BMW 1 Series hatchback has been around in 5-door guise since 2004, while the 3-door hatchback was introduced in 2005. It replaced the BMW 3 Series Compact range as BMW's smallest and most affordable vehicle in the range (depending on the engine model) and boasts a number of unique attributes for its class.

For instance, the 1 Series is the only vehicle in its class featuring rear-wheel drive, 50:50 weight balance, a longitudinally-mounted engine and an advanced aluminum multi-link suspension. It is currently one of BMW's best-selling cars and in 2008, accounted for nearly one-fifth of the manufacturers total sales.

With credentials like these, it was with great interest that we took delivery of our first BMW test car here at SACarFan, the 3-door BMW 120i M Sport, to discover what the 1 Series, and indeed the M Sport version, is all about.

By now a familiar face on our roads, the BMW 1 series hatchback certainly raised some eyebrows when it was launched back in 2004, ours included. Things improved with the arrival of the 3-door version, which we can't help but think was the way the baby of the range was always supposed to look. Add the 'M' aerodynamic kit, however, and the look of the car is transformed from a curious looking hatchback to a compelling hot-hatch.

The terribly drab front bumper from the standard model is replaced by one sporting integrated fog lights and a deep, centre aligned air dam, flanked by smaller air intakes on either side. The side skirts are bolder than those fitted to the standard 1 series and feature a bulge that draws one's eye from the front to the rear of the car. The rear bumper receives a dramatic design change, with an inset dark grey diffuser-like section rounding off the more sporty look, along with chromed twin-tailpipes.

Double-spoke 'M' 17-inch alloy wheels, shod in 205/50 profile rubber up front and 225/45 at the rear, fill the wheel arches courtesy of the M Sport suspension, which gives the 120i M Sport a 15 mm lower ride height over the standard model and helps to complete the polished M Sport look.

The sharply defined angles of the outside are continued on the inside of the 120i M Sport and are complimented by softer curves, such as the door handles. The result is a modern, minimalistic and simple cabin that achieves a stylish synergy.

As expected, a comfortable driving position is quickly attainable by adjusting the seat and steering wheel to your desired settings. The driving position of the BMW 1 Series is inherently low to begin with and raising the seat height may result in taller drivers looking through the top of the windscreen. Having said this, you only really notice the low slung driving position when climbing in and out of the car, once you're inside it's a comfortable ride.

The leather covered sports seats may have a lot to do with the comfort factor, as they provide good all round support whether sitting in traffic or relishing your favourite corners. With the majority of head and legroom up front, the 3-door 1-Series does not welcome rear passengers. In fact, passengers up front commented that the legroom was potentially too generous as they had no floor board to push against to support themselves.

Standard interior specifications are as you'd expect from a BMW and include air-conditioning, stereo jack for auxiliary music devices, radio/CD player, driver and passenger front and side airbags, as well as head (curtain) airbags for both front and rear passengers.

Apart from the seats, the M Sport package enhances the interior with aluminum trim on the dashboard and door inlays; leather covered, multifunction sports steering wheel; leather covered hand brake and gearshift lever gaiter; as well as anthracite coloured roof lining.

The interior, and indeed the whole car, gives one the over-riding impression of impeccable build quality. From the tactile interior elements, to the solid thud of the doors, the BMW 1 Series M Sport feels built to last.

With its low-slung driving position, the BMW 1-series hatch immediately feels sporty before even turning the key. The chunky, three-spoke, sports steering wheel provides accurate steering and adequate feedback from the road. The leather clad gearshift lever fits snugly in your hand and with short throws between the gates, provides a sporty, precise and rewarding shift through the 6-speed gearbox, urging you to change at every opportunity.

Once on the move the 120i M Sport certainly grabs the attention of other road users, who no doubt expect to see a 130i badge on the boot. The engine note from the twin-exhausts is one of the best of any in-line four available and when you point the tacho needle skyward the BMW 120i M Sport responds willingly.

The road-holding provided by the 17-inch wheels, with run-flat tyres as standard, and sports suspension is very good - the chassis is firm, offering positive feel and a comfortable ride - as a result the rear-wheel drive 120i M navigates corners with enthusiasm.

The M Sport package does not include performance enhancements for the 2,0-litre engine found in the 120i M. This means power output remains unchanged from that of the standard model, with 115 kW of peak power available at 6 400 rpm and maximum torque of 200 N.m at 3 600 rpm. The 120i M feels slightly underpowered compared to what one may expect, although this expectation is created from the sporty elements of the M Sport package rather than the abilities of the 1995 cc naturally aspirated engine, whose output figures are among the highest in its class.

Stirring the gearbox, as its sporty nature urges you to do, will have the 120i M running along at a respectable pace, regardless of the uphill and down-dale nature of our roads. The naturally aspirated engine revs willingly and sings the more you wind it up. The bottom line is that the 120i M Sport is not a particularly fast car and the 'M Sport' package is more about the look and feel, rather than outright pace. But that's okay, because between the sweet shifting gearbox, throaty roar from the engine, sports seats and steering wheel, balanced chassis and excellent road-holding, the BMW 120i M Sport put a smile on our face every time we drove it.

BMW History

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.

Outstanding Car Manufacturer

The initial move to establish such a fabulous motor company:

A German chap known as Rapp Motoren Werke, in the external districts of Munich, initially recognized BMW in the year 1913. on the other hand the preliminary companies foundation commerce was in fabricating aero plane locomotives and in due course Rapp left to figure out Bavarian Motor Works also known as BMW that we identify at the moment.

First step towards development and establishment of BMW:

It was in the year 1928 that BMW fashioned their initial automobile at the Munich industrial unit. The primary automobile was the BMW Dixie and the pinnacle velocity was simply 50mph, far away from the speedy automobiles that BMW manufacture at present. The primary automobile was a huge achievement and a newer side of it was commenced in the year 1932 and in total about 19,000 Dixie's were fashioned at the companies Munich industrial unit.

Effect of Second World War on the sales of BMW cars:

On the other hand, subsequent to the preliminary achievement times were tough for BMW in the consequences of the World War 2 as all of BMW's industrial units had been shattered and BMW undergone from a three year manufacture forbid forced as a consequence that BMW created rockets and bombs for the duration of the war. In the year 1951 BMW created their first automobile subsequent to the World War 2 but as the most part of Germany was in a depression the reproduction did not vend over five hundred.

BMW: constantly moving towards the betterment:

In the prevailing days BMW commenced a series of supplementary reproductions and each was an auxiliary accomplishment which was better then the previous one. At the moment BMW has a series of pinnacle automobiles. The BMW 1 series is an extremely pleasing vehicle with an immense variety of safety and protection and is measured one of the paramount operational cars in the marketplace right now.

A look at the productions:

The Z4 roadster of BMW is among the most well-liked deal hire automobiles in the United Kingdom and it is straightforward to observe why with the advanced managing and slender line plan the Z4 has outshined. In the higher end of the BMW variety is the X3 of BMW which is a frequent picture on the streets of Hammersmith situated in London as more than half of the Chelsea squadron has for a time possessed a BMW X3.

At present BMW is serving the people with most luxurious and gorgeous car models that can blow up anyone's mind. But one has to be in a good situation to avail this luxury because these cars are very much expensive.

A Look Under the Hood at the BMW Parts That Transform a Car Into a Driving Machine

Known for its impressive engineering and dynamic performance, the BMW has made its mark on the automotive industry. There are specific characteristics that make a BMW one of a kind. These are standard BMW elements that cannot be found on other cars.

All BMW parts are made with precision and care, to ensure that its commitment to quality is unparalleled. BMW owners are proud of their purchase, and enjoy the unmatched craftsmanship for which BMW cars are famous.

Distinctive BMW Parts and Features

One of the most distinguishing BMW parts is the double kidney grilles. This stylish grille sets the BMW apart from other cars, giving it a handsome finish as it glides down the highway. The double kidney grilles also give the BMW optimal cooling, allowing air to reach the internal parts. This improves performance and reduces wear and tear on the interior parts.

Another one of the outstanding BMW parts is the four headlight setup. These provide optimal lighting no matter the driving terrain, as well as an eye catching display. It is readily apparent that when four headlights are coupled with double kidney grilles that a classic BMW is on the road.

Handling and Safety

There are additional BMW parts that are not as obvious to the naked eye that create the unique driving conditions that BMW cars are known best for. BMW engines are finely tuned to deliver smooth yet powerful handling under any conditions. Owners know that the BMW is more than a reliable vehicle - owning a BMW is a way of life.

BMW parts are also crafted with safety in mind. From the brakes to the air bags, BMW has always strived to give owners peace of mind while driving their vehicles. The entire structure of the BMW has been honed to deliver security and comfort, as well as a flawless ride. All BMW parts are made of the highest quality materials to appeal to an audience that demands quality over the lowest price.

Driver Responsiveness

Perhaps the most famous attribute of the BMW is its responsiveness to its driver. When operating a BMW, the separation between the driver and the road is blurred. Every direction the car is given is performed seamlessly, thanks to the careful construction of every part underneath the hood. The attention to detail and beauty of a BMW is difficult to match.

With the exceptional craftsmanship and marvelous performance, BMW cars are one of a kind. From the stylish parts on the outside of the car to the durable interior parts, every detail of the BMW is designed for the ultimate driving experience. Any owner of a BMW would not be disappointed with the quality and style of every part of this fine driving machine.

Owning a BMW is an exhilarating experience for any car connoisseur, as well as for the new car lover who is learning the meaning of an unmatchable driving experience for the first time.

A BMW Valve Stem Cap Adds a Lot More Than Just Class to Your BMW

If you own a BMW, whether it be a coupe, convertible, sedan or a roadster, you know the importance of keeping your BMW looking sharp and to have it running smooth on the road. Most people will concentrate on the engine and the exterior of the car. Frequent tune-ups, having the the best gas, frequent washes and waxes are all very important. However, one mustn't forget about the tires. If you own a BMW marque, one of the nice accessory that you can add to your BMW is a BMW valve stem cap.

Why are BMW valve stem caps appealing? These quality valve stem caps are made from solid brass. The surface is knurled for easy installation and removal by hand and provide the extra grip needed. The BMW valve stem cap has a tight fitting O-ring that will ensure no air leakage from your tires should there be a tire valve stem. This is critical because an under inflated tire can be a hazard to you on the highway.

Did you know that low tire pressure resulted in approximately 300,000 accidents in the United States? Low tire pressure can reduce your car's braking performance by 22%. This means that 32 feet of braking distance is lost. That could be all the distance you need to avoid an accident.

Keeping your tires properly inflated will help you save gas also. Under inflated tires will result in excessive surface contact surfaces between your tire and the road and therefore takes more energy to move the car forward. The importance of saving gas is in this day and age is obviously important given that the gas prices going over $3.00 a gallon, saving every drop you can helps your pocketbook. A quality BMW valve stem cap will keep your tires from losing pressure, therefore saving you gas.

Also, a properly inflated tire will reduce the wear on your tires. If you have improperly inflated tires, your tires will wear unevenly and they will not last as long. Just think, by spending just a few bucks on new, quality, BMW valve stem caps, you could be saving yourself hundreds of dollars.

You really can't go wrong with the BMW valve stem caps. These caps will add even more class to a your already nice BMW car. The caps come with beautiful chrome finish that will complement your wheels nicely.

As you can see, getting a set of BMW valve stem caps is a wise choice. These valve stems will add a touch of class to your car. But more importantly, they will prevent slow air leakage from your tires which will help prevent dangerous road hazards. So don't delay, get your hand on a set of quality BMW valve stem caps for your BMW.

Ride in safety and style!