Minimization

That thing was is like a < 300 hp over-priced piece of crap. Reminds me of a DeLorean.

If they made a real M1, say an M version of the new 1-series with a 333 hp 24V DOHC I-6, etc, it would quickly make nostalgic BMW executives forget about that relic from the '70's.

Hell, I bet the new 130i will give it a run for its money.


from www.Autoweek.com:

"No M badge for 1 Series

â€oeIf we were asked to do such a model [an M-badged SUV], I am convinced we could do it,” he said.

Bruhnke feels there is room at the top of the X5 range for an M model. The current high-performance model would not be considered for an M-badge, he said.

An M-version of the 1 Series is unlikely, because it is not offered in the U.S., where half of BMWâ€^TMs M models are sold, Bruhnke said.

Even with an expansion of the lineup, an M model will never be just a higher-powered BMW, said Bruhnke.

â€oeWe donâ€^TMt do labeling. M models cannot be just a variation. Handling and dynamic behavior are as important as linear acceleration,” he said.

BMWâ€^TMs M division employs 500 people. Between 1978 and 2004, BMW built 228,454 M models. More than 70 percent were M3 cars.

The company does not disclose the M divisionâ€^TMs profitability. But making a profit is not the only reason for the unitâ€^TMs existence.

It gives BMW cars that highlight the automakerâ€^TMs core value, which is to build cars that deliver performance and agile handling.

M models also serve as a test platform for new technologies, such as carbon-fiber applications:

â€oeWe are a small experimental field for BMW,” said Bruhnke.

Bruhnke, 50, took over BMWâ€^TMs M unit in December 2003 after previous head Adolf Prommesberger retired. Earlier, Bruhnke ran Mercedes-Benzâ€^TMs AMG high-performance division, where he raised AMGâ€^TMs sales to 24,000 units from 10,500.

BMW has not yet decided how to expand the M range. Said Bruhnke: â€oeItâ€^TMs very comfortable to have more ideas than capacity.”

A broadening of the M range could also eventually lead to a future mid-engined supercar in the tradition of the M1, Bruhnke said.

BMW displayed a 700hp V-12 concept X5 at the Geneva auto show in 2000. Said Bruhnke: â€oeThis showed what an M car based on the X5 could look like.”"

No More B5 S4

Way back in the day, it was cutting edge.

85-4kq-girl

Kind of funky looking:

<img src="http://www.audi4000.com/albums/2004Carlisle/IMG_2727.sized.jpg">

<img src="http://www.audi4000.com/albums/2004Carlisle/IMG_2729.sized.jpg">

--morgan

Hal_TT::CBP

see it parked at the local mall sometimes. Nothing special other than the rarity.

Kind of similar to the Plymouth superbird I used to see leaving Lowes a few years ago with PVC plumbing tied accross the roof and rear wing heh. Handyman's Mopar truck.