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Unity Media Plc 60 http://www.bmwcarmagazine.com/images/common/rss-image.gif http://www.bmwcarmagazine.com http://www.bmwcarmagazine.com/magazines/index.cfm/2012/5/17/Issue-216---June-2012 Behind the Wheel This month we go for one last blast in the Alpina D3 Bi-Turbo – the best of the E9x diesels. Evolutionary M Evolve has liberated significantly more power and torque from the 1 Series M Coupé and created a veritable pocket rocket. Mobile Tradition We sample a delightful pre-war 326 Cabriolet. Improving the Breed The E92 M3 is an awesome machine but can BMW’s M Performance accessories improve it? You’ve come a long way, babyAn E60 528i with a supercharger conversion and lashings of carbon fibre makes for an entertaining steer. Fully ’Charged Another E92 M3 but this one has 600hp thanks to the addition of an ESS supercharger kit. The Beast Unleashed AC Schnitzer has worked its magic on the F10 M5 and turned it into a 620hp monster. Rolling Thunder We slip behind the wheel of an awesome Z4 GT3 racer. A Grand Day Out This fully restored 2800CS is a real beauty. What’s in your Garage? We travel to Greece to visit a 12 car collection. Buying Guide: F01 7 Series One of the biggest BMW bargains – style and luxury have never been so affordable. http://www.bmwcarmagazine.com/magazines/index.cfm/2012/5/17/Issue-216---June-2012 Thu, 17 May 2012 09:45:13 GMT http://www.bmwcarmagazine.com/magazines/index.cfm/2012/4/19/Issue-215---May-2012 News: Geneva Show A full roundup from the Alpina, AC Schnitzer and BMW stands at the Geneva Auto Salon. Behind the Wheel The E90 320d EfficientDynamics was a big hit – can the new F30 version hit the spot, too? Simply the Best Alpina’s wonderful twin-turbo diesel 5 Series may well be its finest creation to date. Special Brew A beautifully restored and subtly uprated E9 3.0 CSL profiled. The Next M3? It may be a few years away but the next generation M3 rumour mill is in full swing. We do our best to sort the wheat from the chaff. Family Values The 3 Series is BMW’s most successful car and here we chart the history of all six generations. Triple Crown Three turbos is the way forward according to BMW M; we sample the new M550d xDrive Saloon. Eighth Wonder 8 Series owners are hugely enthusiastic – we follow 23 E31s through the wilds of beautiful Norway. What’s in your Garage? Just the one car this month, but it’s an absolute peach – a fully restored E23 732i. Longtermers An F10 M5 joins the fleet; the E34 M5 is home at last; new brakes for the MINI and the M3 and the E30 335i goes pop on track. Aaargh. Buying Guide: Alpina D3 It might have been the cheapest Alpina the company had ever made but there was nothing low-rent about the sublime D3. http://www.bmwcarmagazine.com/magazines/index.cfm/2012/4/19/Issue-215---May-2012 Thu, 19 Apr 2012 09:41:23 GMT http://www.bmwcarmagazine.com/magazines/index.cfm/2012/3/15/Issue-214---April-2012 Behind the Wheel The future’s eco and here’s the first hybrid BMW for the UK market; the ActiveHybrid 5. Stunning M6s Unveiled Mate the M5’s superb drivetrain to the 6 Series’ svelte styling and the result is the new M6 Coupé and Convertible. Subtle Supercar Birds has fettled the F10 550i with an exhaust, a remap and a Quaife diff for M5-rivalling performance. This is the Modern World Spain to London in a 328i Modern – a perfect trip to get to grips with the new 3 Series. Generation Game E46 vs E90. E39 vs E60. E38 vs E65. Should you splash your cash on the newer or older BMW? Power Haus Before the M5 arrived AC Schnitzer’s ACS 5 Sport S was the baddest, wildest F10 on the planet. Return to Glory The Alpina C2 2.7 is a cracking car and this one has been gorgeously restored to its former glory. No Holds Barred With over 500hp and a full M3 styling makeover this E92 335i is one hell of a tuned 3 Series. What’s in your Garage? This month we visit Belgium and discover an eclectic eight-car collection. Longtermers There’s a wheel refurb for the E34 M5, the E30 335i is used in anger, a service for the 330i and Luke suffers a breakdown with the 325i. Buying Guide: E60 M5 As the V10 masterpiece drops below the £20k mark we look at how to buy the best E60 M5 on a budget. Feeling brave?   http://www.bmwcarmagazine.com/magazines/index.cfm/2012/3/15/Issue-214---April-2012 Thu, 15 Mar 2012 11:30:46 GMT http://www.bmwcarmagazine.com/magazines/index.cfm/2012/2/16/Issue-213---March-2012 Behind the Wheel We sample the entry-level 116i, and come away very impressed by it. X6 Face-lift It’s time for the X6 to receive its LCI revisions and while the changes are subtle, they work well. D-Day BMW has announced the first cars in its M Performance diesel line-up and we’ve got all the details. Lean Green Driving MachineAC Schnitzer’s 99d offers 99g/km of CO², 74mpg and 190hp. Economy Class You don’t see many E28 525es around and modified ones like this are even rarer. One of a Kind Believed to be the only Evo II-engined M3 Convertible made, E30s don’t get rarer than this. Brave Pills Required? We gather five M cars that can be had for less than £10,000 to see if you really can enjoy one of these icons on a budget. City to Surf Iain Curry sees how the 520d handles city life and surf culture. Street Fighter With 800hp on tap, this turbocharged E46 M3 is the ultimate four-wheeled weapon. http://www.bmwcarmagazine.com/magazines/index.cfm/2012/2/16/Issue-213---March-2012 Thu, 16 Feb 2012 10:38:04 GMT http://www.bmwcarmagazine.com/magazines/index.cfm/2012/1/19/Issue-212---February-2012 NewsAlpina’s latest twin-turbo titans – the B3 GT3 and B6 Bi-Turbo, BMW and Toyota collaboration plus more awards. New ProductsA host of new products for your BMW including suspension, brakes, exhausts and more. Behind the WheelThe editor tries out the new Z4 sDrive28i, with its single turbo, four-cylinder engine. Grand MasterWe take a closer look at what the sexy new 6 Series Gran Coupé wil offer. A Perfect BlendWith its five-litre V10 under the bonnet, Manhart’s E91 3 Series Touring is a bit mad, and we like it. Lightweight LegendsWe pitch the M3 CRT against its lightweight forbearers, the E9 CSL and the E46 M3 CSL, to see how it compares. From Concept to RealityEver wondered how a new BMW gets from the drawing board to the road? Mike Taylor finds out. The IllusionistThe ironic thing about the Sbarro 328 Replica is that it’s even rarer than the genuine article. And this one is the best of them all. MasterpieceThis stunning Australian Calder Art Car replica looks every bit as good as the real deal. Bikes & BMWs: Berger GrilledGerhard Berger chats to us about his extensive racing career with BMW. What’s in your Garage?An unassuming garage in Istanbul is home to this month’s fantastic collection. LongtermersThe M5 gets new bushes, more potential problems for the X3 plus more from the rest of the fleet. Buying Guide: E46 318iIt might not set your world alight, but the 318i Saloon is a great all-rounder. 10 Minute GuideEverything you need to know about the E53 X5 3.0d. PostbagYour BMW queries answered. Rear EndTake a look in our archive, see what’s coming next month or pick up a back issue. http://www.bmwcarmagazine.com/magazines/index.cfm/2012/1/19/Issue-212---February-2012 Thu, 19 Jan 2012 12:38:52 GMT http://www.bmwcarmagazine.com/magazines/index.cfm/2011/12/15/Issue-211---January-2012 Massive Attack With the new M5 in our clutches it seemed only right that we introduce it to its ancestors and chart the evolution of the ultimate Super Saloon. Three’s the One The new 3 Series is finally here and we’ve driven it in both 328i and 320d flavours. Tyre Test We test the excellent new Michelin Primacy 3. Behind the Wheel The 118d is the UK’s biggest selling One, so the new model has to be good. Luckily, it is. Six-Pack The M6 is still a little way off, but don’t worry, AC Schnitzer has the answer in the shape of its 650i. Miniature Hero We enjoy a beautifully restored Alpina 2002 racer. Perfect Ten Why would you put the E60 M5’s V10 in an E30 M3? Because you can, obviously. And we’re very glad someone did, because it’s awesome. A Legend in the Making Weighing just 700kg and powered by the E36 M3 Evo engine, the GKD Legend Six is something else. What’s in your Garage? We head to Turkey to meet a young man and his quartet of stunning BMWs. Longtermers New brakes for the 330i,suspension for the 840Ci, repairs for the 750i, and a… Skoda? It’s all happening this month. Buying Guide: E82 123dWith 204hp of twin-turbo goodness beneath its bonnet, the 123d Coupé is fast, frugal fun. http://www.bmwcarmagazine.com/magazines/index.cfm/2011/12/15/Issue-211---January-2012 Thu, 15 Dec 2011 10:14:01 GMT http://www.bmwcarmagazine.com/magazines/index.cfm/2011/11/16/Issue-210---December-2011 New 3 Series Everything you could possibly want and need to know about the all-new F30 3 Series. Behind the Wheel A triple treat of first drives this month, starting with the ActiveE, followed by the 520d ED and finished off with by Z4 2.0i. White Heat We can’t imagine there are many people out there who want a 500hp estate, but that hasn’t stopped Alpina. We drive the sublime B5 Touring. Master and Commander With its new 640d Coupé, BMW has made arguably one its finest cars to date. The Next Level AC Schnitzer has turned its attention to the 1M and the end result is pretty spectacular. Precious Metal Our report from Bonhams’ Munich Power by BMW auction, which had some stunning machinery for sale. Sleeper Cell We revisit the wonderful E34 Alpina B10 Bi-Turbo with a beautiful example from Germany. Buying Guide: E31 850CSiIt’s not a casual purchase but go in prepared and you’ll find it hard to resist the charms of the 850CSi. http://www.bmwcarmagazine.com/magazines/index.cfm/2011/11/16/Issue-210---December-2011 Wed, 16 Nov 2011 16:24:07 GMT http://www.bmwcarmagazine.com/magazines/index.cfm/2011/10/20/Issue-209-November-2011 Frankfurt News All the latest from this year’s Frankfurt Show, including world debuts from Alpina and AC Schnitzer. Behind the Wheel We get driven by an autonomous 5 Series and sample the new MINI Coupé SD. Efthymiou’s Monster Take a Z1.Add a 400hp V8. Light the blue touch paper and stand well back. The Middle Ground Is the new 3.0d X3 the pick of the range? We sample the mid-range model to find out. Living Legend We head to Germany and spend some time with a stunning fully restored M1 Procar. D-Day Alpina’s fantastic D10 was arguably ahead of its time and showed the world what diesel could do. Rewriting the Rules Much has been written about the M5 and now it’s time for us to deliver our verdict on the definitive Super Saloon. What’s in your Garage? A pair of friends and their quartet of BMWs. Longtermers The 840Ci heads abroad, the 528i gets an MoT, some TLC for the E39 M5 plus plenty more goingson from the rest of the fleet. Buying Guide: E28 M535iIt may not be the full-fat M5, but the semi-skimmed M535i offers plenty of performance and is a great value classic. 10 Minute Guide Everything you need to know about buying the Z3 3.0i Roadster in a nutshell. http://www.bmwcarmagazine.com/magazines/index.cfm/2011/10/20/Issue-209-November-2011 Thu, 20 Oct 2011 09:24:20 GMT http://www.bmwcarmagazine.com/magazines/index.cfm/2011/9/15/Issue-208---October-2011 Aiming HighIt may be early days for the MINI Countryman WRC car but it looks like it’s destined for greatness. Behind the WheelThus far we’ve been mighty impressed by Kelleners Sport’s offerings and now we sample its 520d. Amazing GraceAlpina has built some wonderful cars in its time and the extremely rare E38 B12 is arguably one of its best. We visit Norway to spend some time with a 5.7 example. Glorious GaydonThis year’s BMW Festival at Gaydon was packed full of people and exciting BMW of all shapes and sizes. To M or not to M?We love the 1M and it’s been met with universal praise, but could a well-modified 135i offer up a challenge? We head to the States to find out. Premium EconomyAC Schnitzer UK’s handsome ACS5 2.0d Sport offers the perfect blend of performance and economy, and it’s great value for money. Class ActThe elegant E3 Saloon is something of a forgotten classic these days but as this beautiful example shows, it deserves  a lot more attention. i of the StormBMW purists and traditionalists might feel uncomfortable about BMW’s new direction but the i3 and i8 are hugely important for the future and worth getting excited about. Power HungryThis turbocharged Z3 M Coupé from Turkey packs a fearsome 600hp punch. What’s in your Garage?Just when you think you’ve seen it all, along comes a collection that will leave you speechless. We headed to Germany to see something very special indeed. Buying Guide: E39 5 Series Touring The E39 5 Series Touring may not be the roomiest estate but when it comes to stylish load lugging, it’s a secondhand bargain that’s hard to beat. http://www.bmwcarmagazine.com/magazines/index.cfm/2011/9/15/Issue-208---October-2011 Thu, 15 Sep 2011 12:20:24 GMT http://www.bmwcarmagazine.com/magazines/index.cfm/2011/8/18/Issue-207---September-2011 Michelin Pilot Performance Days We head to Estoril to sample the full range of Michelin’s excellent Pilot tyres. Behind the Wheel The X1 has been a roaring success for BMW but until now it’s only been available as an SE. We sample the new M Sport 23d version to see how it stacks up. Black Magic We venture over to Kelleners Sport’s HQ in Germany to test out the KS1-S – its 410hp take on the wild 1 Series M Coupé. It’s a rather fine concoction. Hidden Talents Of all the cars BMW has seen fit to race, the least talked about is the E12 5 Series. Here we chart its history and get up close and personal with a superb recreation. From Dusk Till Dawn The best way to enjoy the mad and bad M3 GTS on the UK’s roads is to go for a blat when everyone’s asleep. We went coast-to-coast in the wildest M car. Brave New World The new 1 Series might bear more than a passing resemblance to the old model but under the skin it’s all new and with new engines and a host of options it should be another winner. We sample the 118i and 120d in Germany. The Happening Geiselhöring is an unremarkable Bavarian town… but for one day a year it plays host to a huge E30 M3 gathering. We went along to see what all the fuss was about. Daily Delights How do you fancy running a classic BMW as a daily driver? We sample an E9 CSL, a 2002tii, an E23 735i and a shark-nosed 635CSi to see whether it’s feasible or not. What’s In Your Garage? We meet a Turkish family with a passion for BMWs and an enviable collection of Munich’s finest. Buying Guide: E30 3 Series Touring It might not have been BMW’s first Touring but the E30 paved the way for a whole generation of stylish estates. Here’s how to nab a good ‘un.   http://www.bmwcarmagazine.com/magazines/index.cfm/2011/8/18/Issue-207---September-2011 Thu, 18 Aug 2011 09:42:42 GMT http://www.bmwcarmagazine.com/magazines/index.cfm/2011/7/21/Issue-206-August-2011 Stepping Up BMW’s performance at this year’s Le Mans 24-Hour wasn’t perfect, but it was a huge improvement over 2010. 24 Heaven in the Green Hell The Nürburgring 24-hour race saw BMW, and MINI, put in a strong performance. Behind the Wheel This month we sample the sexy new 640i Coupé and then drive the pre-production MINI Coupé. Past Master Distinctly different from the E30 M3, the Alpina B6 2.8 was a sublime car and this is the nicest one we’ve seen. The Ultimate M? Everything you need to know about the fastest, most powerful M car to date; the twin-turbo V8 F10 M5. Rage of the Machine German tuner Manhart Racing has decided to add a supercharger to the E90 M3, creating the MH3 Compressor. It has 570hp and it’s angry… Club Culture When the BMW Car Club Turkey invited us over to meet its many passionate members, we couldn’t resist. Eight Times Around… Who says modified cars are unreliable? We meet an E36 M3 owner whose tuned example has been around the world eight times. Well, not literally… Balance of Power On paper the F10 550i and the E39 M5 are very evenly matched in terms of power and performance, so we brought the two together to see how they stack up. Prepare to Perfection If you’ve ever wondered what it takes to get your car to concours standard, wonder no more. Roll With It We attended Evolve Automotive’s E39 M5 rolling road day which proved to be an interesting event. Buying Guide: E85 Z4 It’s summer, apparently, so why not treat yourself to a spot of affordable open-top motoring. http://www.bmwcarmagazine.com/magazines/index.cfm/2011/7/21/Issue-206-August-2011 Thu, 21 Jul 2011 10:26:11 GMT http://www.bmwcarmagazine.com/magazines/index.cfm/2011/6/16/Issue-205-July-2011 Happy Birthday 328The legendary Roadster is celebrating its 75th birthday so we look back at the history of the 328. Face OffWith the recent launch of the F12 640i Convertible we decided to bring the car together with its V8 predecessor, the 645Ci, to see how the two soft top GTs stack up. At the end of the Rainbow…We’ve been looking forward to the new 1M Coupé for some time now and, as the editor found on a drive back from Scotland, it doesn’t disappoint. Long HaulThe, very rare, E38 L7 was the third and final generation of 7 Series limousines and also the longest car that BMW has ever built and we managed to track one down. Pushing the EnvelopeModifying a car like the Z4 M Roadster is no easy task but this highly tuned and finely honed example is one of the best we’ve ever driven. A Quiet RevolutionWe had the chance to get up close and personal with the new 1 Series and while we weren’t allowed to drive it, from what we’ve seen it’s going to be great. The M Power DNAWe decided to pitch the fantastic 1M Coupé against BMW’s one and only supercar, the M1, to see how far things have come and whether the two even feel related. Scarlet FeverEveryone loves the E30 M3 so when the chance arose to shoot a Sport Evo with a Convertible we were excited to see how they would fare head-to-head. Tyre Test: Goodyear Dunlop Winter TyresSummer might seem like an odd time to be testing winter tyres but with the help of a snowdome, their abilities could be demonstrated. Buying Guide: E9x M3The V8 M3 is a serious performance bargain – here’s how to buy the last naturally aspirated M.   http://www.bmwcarmagazine.com/magazines/index.cfm/2011/6/16/Issue-205-July-2011 Thu, 16 Jun 2011 12:21:13 GMT http://www.bmwcarmagazine.com/magazines/index.cfm/2011/5/19/Issue-204-June-2011 Continental Tyre TestWe head to the Portimao Circuit in Portugal to sample the new Continental ContiSportContact 5 and EcoContact 5 tyres and come away very impressed. Behind the WheelMark Nicol samples the X1 28i, powered by BMW’s all-new four-cylinder, turbocharged petrol engine and the editor drives a Countryman slathered in MINI accessories. Saving GraceWe celebrate 50 years of the Neue Klasse, the car that saved BMW from the brink of bankruptcy and paved the way for future generations of BMW. One Careful OwnerJohn Surtees has owned his 507 from new, so we decided to meet the man and chat BMW to get the full story on his beloved classic. The Other MThe E28 M535i may not be a fully-fledged M car but it’s a special machine nonetheless. Family Favourites118d or MINI Countryman? Similar price, similar performance, but which is best? We pit the two family compacts against each other to see how they compare. Classical GasThe Essen Techno Classica show is a riot of  classic machinery and this year’s show was the biggest yet. Hail to the KingWith over 700hp, Manhart Racing’s X6M-powered, twin-turbo V8 E92 M3 is unlike anything we’ve ever experienced. Strap yourself in, this is one hell of a ride… Hidden GemsWe explore BMW’s incredible secret vault and unearth the amazing M cars that never made it into production. Diesel DetoxWe take our 520d to BM Bitz to have its engine thoroughly de-gunked and it emerges refreshed and like new. Buying Guide: E23 7 SeriesThere aren’t many around and there are plenty of potential pitfalls to look out for when buying one, but you can’t knock the classic appeal of the first 7 Series. http://www.bmwcarmagazine.com/magazines/index.cfm/2011/5/19/Issue-204-June-2011 Thu, 19 May 2011 12:35:30 GMT http://www.bmwcarmagazine.com/magazines/index.cfm/2011/4/21/Issue-203-May-2011 Issue 203 May 2011 Behind the WheelThis month we sample the BMW Performance 120d; more go for your 1 Series without invalidating your warranty. New 6 Series Coupé UnveiledHot on the heels of the F12 6 Series Convertible comes the stylish 2+2 coupé version. First TakeUntil the arrival of the new M5 later this year, the 550i is the hottest Five you can buy. This is Hamann’s interpretation of how a BMW Super Saloon should look. Sheer GritThe 2002 was BMW’s first big seller in North America but there were a plethora of changes that had to be made to BMW’s sporting saloon to meet US legislation. Blood BrothersSuper-rare Tourings from Alpina: the world’s only right-hand drive B5S goes head-to-head with one of only four RHD B10 V8S models made for the UK market. Gran Turismo 6The arduous task of piloting the new 640i Convertible from southern Spain to the UK fell to deputy editor Seb. He rather enjoyed himself over the 1300-mile marathon. How do you make a rally car do this?Dan Prosser  gets up close and personal with MINI’s new WRC machine to find out everything there is to know about its trick suspension. Long Live the King!The next generation M5 makes its debut, albeit in ‘concept’ form. It looks like a bit of a cracker. Orient ExpressWe don’t get the 323i in E90 form in the UK, but they do in Taiwan, and they like to supercharge them too! The WheelwrightsWe go behind the scenes at Lepsons to find out all about alloy wheel refurbishment. Buying Guide: E93 3 Series Convertible Stylish yet surprisingly practical, the current 3 Series drop-top is now over four years old and makes a very tempting used buy. http://www.bmwcarmagazine.com/magazines/index.cfm/2011/4/21/Issue-203-May-2011 Thu, 21 Apr 2011 13:41:05 GMT http://www.bmwcarmagazine.com/magazines/index.cfm/2011/3/17/Issue-202---April-2011 Issue 202 April 2011 Goodyear tyre testSeb samples the successor to the hugely-impressive Eagle F1 Asymmetric, the Eagle F1 Asymmetric 2, and takes a look at the new UltraGrip 8 winter tyre. Behind the WheelThe 535d has always been a seriously impressive machine but it’s also become a very expensive one – is it worth the asking price? We drive one to find out. Geneva Motor Show ReportThe BMW-based highlights from this year’s Geneva Motor Show including the ActiveE, Vision ConnectedDrive, plus some exciting cars from the tuners. Under the RadarWe’ve seen plenty of quick 135is but with 400hp, this 1 Series from Birds takes the biscuit. The editor straps himself in for a wild ride in the pocket rocket. Last of the BreedProdrive knows a thing or two about rally cars and has just restored the last E30 rally car it ever built, which seemed like a good excuse to go and drive it. Show of ForceWith 360hp and 510lb ft of torque courtesy of some AC Schnitzer magic, this F11 Touring is the most powerful 535d we’ve driven and it’s pretty damn good. Clash of the CoupésThe E9 CSL and E24 M6 are arguably two of BMW’s most iconic coupés, so we brought them together to see how they compared. The Right Vision?The new Vision ConnectedDrive concept is very impressive but do we really need all that technology? We take a closer look at BMW’s latest flight of fantasy. The Right StuffYou might think that BMW never built a right-hand drive E30 M3 but you’d be wrong – they built two for Japanese customers and this is their story. Buying GuideRetro is seriously cool these days, so why not transport yourself back to the 1970s with an E21 3 Series? E NumbersKnow your Es from your Fs with our quick guide. http://www.bmwcarmagazine.com/magazines/index.cfm/2011/3/17/Issue-202---April-2011 Thu, 17 Mar 2011 11:32:19 GMT http://www.bmwcarmagazine.com/magazines/index.cfm/2011/2/17/Issue-201---March-2011 Issue 201 – March 2011 Behind the WheelBob samples the BMW Performance X6 – it’s been treated to a selection of parts from the Performance catalogue but are they worth the outlay?1 for the BeachThe 118d Convertible combines nimble handling, incredible frugality and cute styling to create a drop-top that is hard not to like. Glorious SwansongWith the departure of the M5 and M6, the Wiesmann MF5 is the last production car to use the 5.0-litre V10 and we drive the latest incarnation, the astonishing Roadster. Eastern PromiseIn the second of our features from Taiwanese tuning firm Arma, we drive a supercharged E93 320i and come away thoroughly impressed. Beautiful StrangerThe 2000CS, the two-door coupé based on the Neue Klasse Saloon, is a rare beast so we jumped at the chance to shoot one and look back at the model’s history.Last Chance SaloonYou might think that there wasn’t much room for improvement with the S85 V10 but as this CA Automotive modified E60 M5 goes to show, you’d be wrong…SunseekerThe new 6 Series certainly has the looks but can it impress behind the wheel? We get our first drive of the twin-turbo 650i Convertible to see how it stacks up.Black OpsTake one X6 M. Give it 650hp. Make it loud. Drive it fast. Read about it. AC Schnitzer did the first three things, we did the fourth and now you can do the last one. What’s in your GarageAfter a brief absence, WIYG returns     with a vengeance, bringing with it a BMW enthusiast with no less than eight 5 Series’ in his possession.Buying Guide: E70 X5The latest generation X5 has been around for four years and while it’s not cheap new, it makes for an excellent used buy – we tell you how to bag a good one. http://www.bmwcarmagazine.com/magazines/index.cfm/2011/2/17/Issue-201---March-2011 Thu, 17 Feb 2011 10:10:39 GMT http://www.bmwcarmagazine.com/magazines/index.cfm/2011/1/20/Issue-200---February-2011 Behind the WheelWe sample the new 520d M Sport Saloon – it’s got the looks but can the rest of the M?Sport package improve the already excellent Five?White LightningThe Z4 sDrive35is was quick but disappointing to drive, but with a sprinkling of AC Schnitzer magic, it might finally be the car it should have been all along. The Generation GapThe new X3 is exceedingly good so we decided to bring together both generations of X3 for a good old head to head – there can only be one winner!  Phoenix, RisingAfter a long wait, the 1 Series M Coupé has finally been unveiled and we bring you everything you need to know about the latest M car.Economies of ScaleWe never received the E30 325e in the UK but along with the 525e it was the forerunner of EfficientDynamics – we take a look at the special Three.Special KKelleners Sport has been away from the BMW tuning scene for a few years now but it’s back, under new management, and with a stunning 535i. Red Letter DayIt’s hard to believe that 25 years have passed since the launch of the E30 M3 and to mark the occasion we’ve brought together the most special M3s from each generation: E30 M3 Sport Evo, E36 M3 Imola Individual, E46 M3 CSL and the awesome E92 M3 Competition.A French OdysseyRoad trips are always great fun but your first one really needs to be something special. A 3000-mile road trip across France in a 1602 is the perfect choice and makes for a very memorable summer vacation.I was there: E36 CompactIt’s been a long time since BMW’s first attempt at a small car and while it may not have been a universal success, the E36 Compact wasn’t a bad car and paved the way for the 1 Series.Buying Guide: E90 320dIf you want a BMW that can do it all, the 320d should be top of your list. Fast, frugal and fun, we show you how to buy the only car you’ll ever need. http://www.bmwcarmagazine.com/magazines/index.cfm/2011/1/20/Issue-200---February-2011 Thu, 20 Jan 2011 09:44:30 GMT http://www.bmwcarmagazine.com/magazines/index.cfm/2010/12/16/Issue-199---January-2011 Behind the WheelThe 2WD X1 sDrive20d might not sound exciting and it would be all too easy to dismiss it but it’s an excellent car at an excellent price. In Search of PerfectionThe E39 M5 may be gone but it certainly isn’t forgotten and Evolve Automotive’s finely fettled example proves that there’s still plenty of life left in it. Fade to GreyWe get behind the wheel of the recently face-lifted X5 to see whether it’s still the king of the SAVs or if time has taken its toll on the once great 4x4. One for the RoadThe editor pays a visit to Birds to sample its 130i-based B1 – fitted with the company’s specially developed handling pack, it’s the car it always should have been. Load RunnerHaving kids invariably means buying an estate but just because you drive a Touring doesn’t mean you have to be sensible, as CA Automotive’s 545i wagon goes to show. Six AppealBMW has finally revealed the new 6 Series and has opted to show the Convertible version before the Coupé. We’ve got all the details and specs for the sexy new Six. From Allrad to xDriveWould you believe that it’s 25 years since the first four-wheel drive BMW was launched? We take a look back at a quarter of a century of 4WD BMWs. Fast ClubThe E28 M5 gets all the credit for being the original Super Saloon but the Alpina B7 Turbo was first and faster with it. Seb gets up close and personal with a stunning Dutch example. I was there: E30 M3It’s hard to imagine a time when everybody’s favourite M3 didn’t exist. David Sutherland remembers the launch of the original fast 3 Series. Buying Guide: E34 M5With less than 900 UK cars built and far fewer left on the road, the E34 M5 has all the makings of a collector’s classic – we tell you how to bag a good one. http://www.bmwcarmagazine.com/magazines/index.cfm/2010/12/16/Issue-199---January-2011 Thu, 16 Dec 2010 10:18:32 GMT http://www.bmwcarmagazine.com/magazines/index.cfm/2010/11/18/Issue-198---December-2010 Behind the WheelAC Schnitzer has taken the excellent  320d Convertible and made it a bit more exciting. It’s good. Running RingsWe sample the wild G-Power GT2 S; a 600hp supercharged monster based on the E92 M3. Exceeding ExpectationsThe X3 was a strong seller but it never quite felt like the car it could have been, but with the all-new F25 X3, BMW has created what might be the best X car yet. Lost JewelWith BMW’s Megacity vehicle big news, Gavin Farmer looks back at the funky Z13 city car concept from the 1990s that so very nearly made it into production.  Best of Both Worlds?We pitch the 5 Series GT against the  730d and the F11 530d Touring to see which is the best all-round diesel-powered luxury exec, with surprising results… Honey, I Shrank the M-Car!BMW still hasn’t shown us an undisguised One M Coupé but at least we’ve had a chance to drive the prototype, and it’s really rather good. Made in TaiwanTaiwan might not be synonymous with BMW tuning but the marque is popular out there. We visit Arma Speed,  a Taiwanese tuning firm that specialises in superchargers… Space Invader...and then head out on to the island roads to sample one of Arma Speed’s creations; a matt black, M3-kitted, supercharged E91 320i Touring. Rumble in the ForestTrying to choose between an E60 M5 or an Alpina B5 is the kind of dilemma we’d like to be faced with. Munich Legends’ Dan Norris ponders his purchase. I was there: E28 525eThe fuel crisis of the 1980s required  some novel ideas from car manufacturers, and BMW’s answer was the very clever and highly fuel-efficient 525e. Buying GuideThe E65 7 Series wasn’t exactly a looker but it was packed full of tech and is great value now as long as you do  your homework. We tell you how to bag a good one. http://www.bmwcarmagazine.com/magazines/index.cfm/2010/11/18/Issue-198---December-2010 Thu, 18 Nov 2010 11:00:09 GMT http://www.bmwcarmagazine.com/magazines/index.cfm/2010/10/21/Issue-197---November-2010 Behind the WheelWe drive the all-new F11 530d Touring, quite possibly the only car you’ll ever need. A Perfect Performance?Bob samples a face-lifted 335i Coupé that has been decked out with BMW Performance parts to see if they can improve what is already an excellent car. Better by DesignAC Schnitzer has given the F10 530d a bodykit, some power and a lot of carbon – question is, is it any good? We pay a visit to Aachen to find out. Svelte and StylishWe take an in-depth look at the recently unveiled 6 Series Concept to see what lies beneath the sleek exterior and just how close it is to the production version.  The 700 ClubThe 700 is a rare old thing these days and the racing versions even more so but we managed to track down a beautiful right-hand drive racer that’s been freshly built. Unconventional WisdomWhat started out as a restoration project has ended up with an American BMW fan transforming his E30 325i into an AC Schnitzer ACS3 replica. Head for the HillsWhere better to enjoy the thrill of driving a very rare five-speed 2002tii than Australia’s foremost classic motorsport region, the undulating Adelaide Hills. I Was There: E36 3 SeriesAfter the success of the E30 it seemed as if BMW could do no wrong but when the badly built E36 was launched, the company was in for a shock. What’s in your Garage?An international WIYG this month as we head to a secret location in Holland to meet a group of friends and their awesome collection of classic BMWs. http://www.bmwcarmagazine.com/magazines/index.cfm/2010/10/21/Issue-197---November-2010 Thu, 21 Oct 2010 16:33:43 GMT http://www.bmwcarmagazine.com/magazines/index.cfm/2010/10/8/Issue-196---October-2010 Behind the WheelThe face-lifted 320d Coupé boasts more power and torque than its predecessor plus better fuel economy too – what’s not to like? Bettering PerfectionImproving upon the already superb B3 was never going to be easy but somehow Alpina has managed to go one better, and the rest, with its sublime B3 S Bi-Turbo. Blown AwayWe’re big fans of Wiesmann’s creations and now the company has chopped the roof off the MF4, thrown in the M3 V8 for good measure and the result is pretty special. Festival FeverAnother year another BMW Festival at Gaydon, courtesy of the BMW Car Club. The weather was great, the BMWs were plentiful and a good time was had by all. Added X AppealWe’ve grown to love the X1 and with a raft of AC Schnitzer accessories this might just be the best one we’ve tried so far. CaliforniacationTake one E28 535i, add a sprinkling of M magic, mix with plenty of elbow grease and Californian sunshine and the result is this stunning, custom M5. La Ronde InfernaleIf you want to see classic BMWs in action on track then Classic Le Mans is the place to go. I was there: E12 M535iWe travel back to the ‘70s and the launch of the first production BMW to wear the M badge and the forefather of the Bavarian super saloon. Frugal Fun The MINI Cooper D Convertible won’t set your world alight but it’s a fun and economical way to enjoy summer motoring. http://www.bmwcarmagazine.com/magazines/index.cfm/2010/10/8/Issue-196---October-2010 Fri, 08 Oct 2010 10:12:05 GMT http://www.bmwcarmagazine.com/magazines/index.cfm/2010/10/8/Issue-195---September-2010 Value ServiceBMW’s fixed-price servicing deals for older cars has been revamped and is now known as ‘Value Service’. Behind the WheelThe excellent and likely best seller of the F10 range, the 520d, hits the UK’s shores plus an E93 330d. Great WhiteAlpina’s beaten BMW M to market by over a year with its hot new 5 Series, the B5 Bi-Turbo. With over 500hp and 516lb ft of torque, it’s a bit of a beast. X Hits the SpotThe all-new X3 has finally arrived. We’ve got all the details on the new SAV plus we’ve slipped behind the wheel of a prototype to bring you our first driving impressions. Dancing the TangoThe hottest M3 yet, the GTS, hits the track. With 450hp on tap, trick suspension and big brakes, it’s BMW’s answer to Porsche’s GT3. It’s also very orange. White Knuckle RideGama Motorsport has taken one immaculate E30 3 Series, blended it carefully with an E34 540i and the result is the V8 S – one seriously fast and tuneful E30! MeisterwerkeA fully restored 2002 is a joy to behold, especially when it’s been upgraded with an M Power S14 from the E30 M3 I was there: E32 7 SeriesThe second generation Seven was the first BMW to really take the game to the S-Class Mercedes-Benz. David Sutherland charts its launch and history. BMW Legends: McLaren F1 EngineWhen Gordon Murray needed an engine for his all-new supercar, BMW’s http://www.bmwcarmagazine.com/magazines/index.cfm/2010/10/8/Issue-195---September-2010 Fri, 08 Oct 2010 10:08:30 GMT