The BMW marketing geniuses are back at it, they have gotten our attention. Before we delve into what we have a strange feeling (we get those pretty regularly) this “Concept” will be let us rewind to our time with the actual Vision Efficient Dynamics Concept car.
While not anticipated to be introduced as a single production model the Vision is said to showcase future drivetrain, efficiency techniques and design language that will be used in production models. This revolutionary concept is designed with the intent of being powered by 2 electric motors and a three-cylinder diesel engine to produce 356 hp and 590 lb-ft. It would rocket the car from 0-60 in 4.8 seconds while achieving almost 63 miles per gallon.
Last week we told you what the 1M wasn’t. Now it’s time to talk about what it is.
On the eve of the 1M reveal (or partial reveal) we published an article arguing that the 1M may have reached un-warranted mythical status. We posed the question; has all the hype turned a good car into an undeserving great car? Now we want to present the other end of the opinion spectrum.
Numbers, technology and bespoke parts mean nothing if there isn’t feel and emotion. Much like the MINI JCW GP, the 1M was put together in short order by a dedicated team of individuals bound together to do one thing; create a car (above all else) that brings fun back to the M Division.
And interestingly much like the GP’s early days, there’s been much debate on this site and forums about the would be success of the 1M.
The 1M was created as an entry point for the M brand. A back to basics car with a manual transmission, high output engine and a wicked differential to apply all the power. It’s the M brand distilled down to it’s vintage core. And the truth is we love every bit of it. No we haven’t driven the 1M but the principles that created the car are the same ones that inspired us to create this site.
Over a week ago we broke the news that the 1M will only be available with a manual transmission. Since that time BF and online forums have been debating what that means for the car and sales. We feel confident it’s a good move given the nature of the car, the way it’ll be marketed and the amount of production. But we want to hear from you. Given BMW’s limited development time, which transmission would you prefer to see in the 1M?
There has been some speculation that BMW was going to withdraw from the World Touring Car Championship with its re-introduction into the DTM. However this Autosport report that BMW is readying a new generation of engines for teams running BMW indicates otherwise. That means that, at least, we’ll see BMW power private teams in the WTCC for 2011. In fact with 2011 the start of the new engine specifications we’d be shocked to see BMW develop the new engine for 2011 (where the bulk of the money is spent) and not simply support the teams in 2012 and beyond when they enter DTM. continued →
What can we say except for WOW! Gerald, aka “Alpine325ci” has the title as the resident photoshopper extraordinaire over with our friends at Bimmerpost and he deserves it, as the car looks great.
His render puts into a visual many of the specifics we have described in words, such as the mirrors taken directly from the M3 and the more aggressive side vent. He was able to show what we believe the full front air dam will eventually look like. There are a few things that don’t quite match up with what Gabe has described first hand. The side faring comes in earlier and there’s a bit more detail just in front of the rear wheel that isn’t seen here. Also, we expect the lights to be subtly tweaked and may feature some of the more recent changes BMW has made across the line with LEDs and DRL halos (possibly coming to all 1ers as a late update). And is the inclusion of a carbon fiber roof a bit too much for this entry level ///M car? As you likely read earlier this week our sources hint at yes but we will see soon enough. (more images after the break) continued →
Over the last year the 1 Series M Coupe team in charge of development has been getting reacquainted with the E30 M3. Driving it, dissecting it and generally experiencing the car that helped shape the brand. The goal was to take that exposure and help is shape the 1M.
What made the E30 M3 so great wasn’t power but feel. The connection with the steering wheel and road are simply riveting at any speed. Then there’s the ability of the car to change direction quickly and be light on it’s feet. In short it’s a car that feels eager.
One of the reasons; weight. In the mid-80’s automotive everything was lighter and it was relatively easy for the M Division to create a car that weighed under 3,000 lbs for the mass market. There was no carbon or aluminum needed. It was simply the side effect of making a simple vehicle. continued →
BimmerFile is dedicated to bringing you the most interesting news, links and reviews related to the BMW brand and it's vehicles.
We believe in the old school BMW ownership experience. We believe in garage nights with a six pack and some friends. We believe in 2002s, in E30 M3s and E34 540s with the 6 speed. We believe in progress in both design and engineering but we haven't lost sight of what made the brand and its products great all those years ago. And yes, we believe in the manual transmission.
We long for the days of the wave and for the days of roll-up windows. Yet we love the gadgets on the inside and the xenons on the outside.
In short, we can't get enough of BMWs. This is BimmerFile.
Sections: Concept | Rumor | Video Sep 7th, 2010 No Comments 
Loading ...
