BMW Faqs

Many debates have begun over a spy photograph that was taken of what appears to be a BMW M1 prototype. The problem is we aren’t sure is it is the real thing or a really creative rendering. FreshTarmac.com reported that the photo was snapped in a hangar in Spain.

As we can see from the picture (if it’s real) the prototype is something to look at. The design that it sports is sleek and a perfect example of why BMW is so well respected and popular among many people. It looks like a mid-engine coupe that has pulled some design techniques from the M3. We are hoping that if this is the real thing that BMW is possibly thinking about creating a productive version of the M1 Hommage Concept that was debuted just last week at the Concorso d’Eleganza at Villa d’Este.

If anyone knows how to celebrate it is BMW. They celebrated the 30th birthday of the iconic M1 during the Concorso d’Eleganza by creating a brand new concept car that was designed and made to pay tribute to the M1.

The BMW M1 Hommage blends a wide, aggressive stance with intentionally retro/modern twists on the key visual elements that defined Paul Bracq’s original BMW Turbo concept and the Giugiaro-designed M1 homologation special that followed. It is instantly recognizable as an M1, particularly in profile, where the M1 Hommage’s basic shape clearly mimics that of its forebear. BMW’s stylists also incorporated similar nods the particulars of the original, such as the louvered rear window; the badge placement in back; the line extending aft from the side glass; and even the wheel design, which is an exaggerated take on the ones you’ll find on the original road car.

BMW will be showing off the new X5 Vision EfficientDynamics Concept at the 2008 Geneva Auto Show. This year they have proven that they are choosing for their theme to be ‘green’ and showing off this twin-turbo, 2.0 liter four cylinder diesel engine that can connect to a hybrid motor is a perfect beginning to that.

The diesel by itself can make up to 204 horsepower and 295 pound-ft. of torque. When you add the compact generator you can increase that power another 20 horsepower and 154 pound-ft. of torque. The power is spread throughout the car through the use of the eight speed gearbox.