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.
The BMW 3-Series has sold over ten million cars since 1975 and is now the most sought after sports saloon and coupe across the Globe! If you're looking at buying a BMW 3-Series then please visit http://www.americanautobid.com/BMW/3-Series view the shop with a large selection of BMW 3-Series for sale.
Tuesday 11 November 2008
Wednesday 5 November 2008
Guide to Buying an Early Ford Bronco
The early Ford Bronco enjoys a status today among 4x4 fans and classic car devotees that borders on becoming a cult. With a simple design and solid build, excellent handling both on and off road and raw V8 power you have a vehicle that lends itself to many modifications. The early models are now more than 40 years old, the esteem of the classic 1966-1977 Ford Bronco will no doubt continue to grow over the coming years. If you are considering buying an early Ford Bronco then the information here should help you choose the model year that is right for you.
When buying an early Ford Bronco as with the purchase of any older or classic vehicle the usual advice applies to buy the best you can afford with your budget and remember to include ongoing running costs for maintaining an ageing, if modern classic.
Introduced to the motoring public in August 1965 the Ford Bronco was to compete against the Jeep CJ-5 and International Harvester Scout. Initially the early Broncos were very basic; options including power steering and auto transmission were absent. The engine department offered a 105 BHP, 170ci six cylinder - a variant from the Ford Falcon range. Transmission was the three speed manual with a column mounted shifter. Exclusive to the initial models was a tall shifter with a J-handle style ball mounted atop.
The Ford Bronco range was available in wagon, roadster and half cab variations however the roadster proved unpopular and ceased production in 1968. Brakes were drums all round, rear axle was a Ford 9" (up to 1971) and a Dana 30 front axle. The gas tank held 14.5 gallons as standard with a second tank as an optional extra holding an additional 11.5 gallons. The 1966 year model had the following optional extras to choose from: winches, tachometer, tow hooks, trailer hitch, snow plow kit, warn freewheeling hubs and air lift front auxiliary springs. Production for the 1966 model year came to 23,700 units.
1967
1967 saw the Sports Package launched including headlamp and tail lamp bezels, bright finished horn ring, windshield drip, side window frames, cigar lighter, chrome-plated bumpers, front guards and grille (with red "Ford" letters attached to the grille) and 15" wheels trims. In addition to this a bright trimmed headliner and vinyl floor matt were included along with instrument panel trim and tailgate handle. Also new were a dual master cylinder with a split hydraulic system and self adjusting brakes with back up lights and an 11.5 gallon spare fuel tank. 14200 models were produced in 1967.
1968
New in 1968 were front locking hubs and new design inside door handles and window crank knobs along with curved ends on the bumpers and side marker reflectors. 1968 was the last year for the 289ci V8. 16600 models were produced in 1968.
1969
First off the 302ci V8 replaced the 289ci V8, two speed electric wipers were introduced, parking lights with an amber lense replaced the white lense and the steering stabilizer was to become standard. Aluminum door panel trim and a pleated parchment interior were added to the Sport Package and when the rear seat was ordered this came with a rear floor mat. Production levels rose to just under 21,000 models.
1970
The Sports package became a model in its own right instead of a package. The most obvious modifications were the new position of the side marker lights and reflectors. This year saw a reduction in the capacity of the main and spare gas tanks from 12.7 gallons and 10.3 gallons. 1970 saw 18450 Broncos built.
1971
Changes included the Dana 44 becoming the standard Bronco front axle, remote control left hand outside mirror, new headliner for the pick-up and a heavy duty radiator. 1971 saw the limited edition Baja Bronco by Bill Stroppe and Associates introduced - they took a Bronco wagon and made the following modifications: roll bar, front and rear dual shocks, fender flares, larger Gates Commando tires, rubberized steering wheel, bumper braces, automatic transmission, power steering, nameplate and special paint order (red, white, blue, black and white). In total around 650 Baja Broncos were made between 1971 and 1975. Just over 19700 Broncos were made in 1971.
1972
Mid Year changes saw the ranger Package introduced with new striping, argent grille, color coded front and rear pile carpets, deluxe wheel covers, tire cover with "Ranger" lettering, cloth insert bucket seats, fiberboard headliner and wood grained door trim panels. The gas tank reduced in size once again to 7.5 gallons. The T-handle shifter was removed as was the "302" badge V8 front fenders. Production rose to 21,100 units.
1973
This year saw the introduction of the C-4 auto transmission and power steering as an option, the J-Handle transfer case shifter was also introduced. These efforts to modernize the Bronco against stiff competition helped the sales for 1973 achieve just fewer than 21,900 units.
1974
The numbers of Broncos that rolled off the production line hit 25,800 and in this year a new emissions package was introduced for the Californian Broncos making the 200 cid six cylinder engine and 4.11 axles obsolete. Changes were made to the J-handle shifter mechanics and the transmission selector was now lit.
1975
Stricter emissions regulations saw the introduction of unleaded fuel engines, catalytic converters and it is rumored that cam timings were restricted in 1975 to assist with emissions. Sport and Ranger models were fitted with the F-Series steering wheel, ride heights adjusted and an 800 watt engine block heater was available as an option. Lowest ever production numbers were seen of 13,125.
1976
A Special Decor Group had a matt-black finish grille, tape stripe, side window frames, bright windshield molding and wheel covers. Mechanically long awaited power assisted front disc brakes were fitted, rear brakes were also upgraded, Y steering linkage introduced and a front anti sway bar. Production numbers rose slowly to just over 15,200.
1977
The last year for the early Bronco saw the introduction of a heavy duty 9" rear end housing, gas tank doors replaced exterior caps, rear marker lights were now mounted vertically and a 14.4 gallon and 8 gallon gas tank were made in plastic. This is possibly the best of the early models as it includes most of the previous year features. Some previously standard items, such as a passenger's side seat and padded instrument panel, were made optional this year. In its final year of production, 14,546 Broncos rolled off the assembly line before the large Bronco took over in 1978.
If you're looking to buy a Ford Bronco please visit :http://www.americanautobid.com/Ford/Bronco
When buying an early Ford Bronco as with the purchase of any older or classic vehicle the usual advice applies to buy the best you can afford with your budget and remember to include ongoing running costs for maintaining an ageing, if modern classic.
Introduced to the motoring public in August 1965 the Ford Bronco was to compete against the Jeep CJ-5 and International Harvester Scout. Initially the early Broncos were very basic; options including power steering and auto transmission were absent. The engine department offered a 105 BHP, 170ci six cylinder - a variant from the Ford Falcon range. Transmission was the three speed manual with a column mounted shifter. Exclusive to the initial models was a tall shifter with a J-handle style ball mounted atop.
The Ford Bronco range was available in wagon, roadster and half cab variations however the roadster proved unpopular and ceased production in 1968. Brakes were drums all round, rear axle was a Ford 9" (up to 1971) and a Dana 30 front axle. The gas tank held 14.5 gallons as standard with a second tank as an optional extra holding an additional 11.5 gallons. The 1966 year model had the following optional extras to choose from: winches, tachometer, tow hooks, trailer hitch, snow plow kit, warn freewheeling hubs and air lift front auxiliary springs. Production for the 1966 model year came to 23,700 units.
1967
1967 saw the Sports Package launched including headlamp and tail lamp bezels, bright finished horn ring, windshield drip, side window frames, cigar lighter, chrome-plated bumpers, front guards and grille (with red "Ford" letters attached to the grille) and 15" wheels trims. In addition to this a bright trimmed headliner and vinyl floor matt were included along with instrument panel trim and tailgate handle. Also new were a dual master cylinder with a split hydraulic system and self adjusting brakes with back up lights and an 11.5 gallon spare fuel tank. 14200 models were produced in 1967.
1968
New in 1968 were front locking hubs and new design inside door handles and window crank knobs along with curved ends on the bumpers and side marker reflectors. 1968 was the last year for the 289ci V8. 16600 models were produced in 1968.
1969
First off the 302ci V8 replaced the 289ci V8, two speed electric wipers were introduced, parking lights with an amber lense replaced the white lense and the steering stabilizer was to become standard. Aluminum door panel trim and a pleated parchment interior were added to the Sport Package and when the rear seat was ordered this came with a rear floor mat. Production levels rose to just under 21,000 models.
1970
The Sports package became a model in its own right instead of a package. The most obvious modifications were the new position of the side marker lights and reflectors. This year saw a reduction in the capacity of the main and spare gas tanks from 12.7 gallons and 10.3 gallons. 1970 saw 18450 Broncos built.
1971
Changes included the Dana 44 becoming the standard Bronco front axle, remote control left hand outside mirror, new headliner for the pick-up and a heavy duty radiator. 1971 saw the limited edition Baja Bronco by Bill Stroppe and Associates introduced - they took a Bronco wagon and made the following modifications: roll bar, front and rear dual shocks, fender flares, larger Gates Commando tires, rubberized steering wheel, bumper braces, automatic transmission, power steering, nameplate and special paint order (red, white, blue, black and white). In total around 650 Baja Broncos were made between 1971 and 1975. Just over 19700 Broncos were made in 1971.
1972
Mid Year changes saw the ranger Package introduced with new striping, argent grille, color coded front and rear pile carpets, deluxe wheel covers, tire cover with "Ranger" lettering, cloth insert bucket seats, fiberboard headliner and wood grained door trim panels. The gas tank reduced in size once again to 7.5 gallons. The T-handle shifter was removed as was the "302" badge V8 front fenders. Production rose to 21,100 units.
1973
This year saw the introduction of the C-4 auto transmission and power steering as an option, the J-Handle transfer case shifter was also introduced. These efforts to modernize the Bronco against stiff competition helped the sales for 1973 achieve just fewer than 21,900 units.
1974
The numbers of Broncos that rolled off the production line hit 25,800 and in this year a new emissions package was introduced for the Californian Broncos making the 200 cid six cylinder engine and 4.11 axles obsolete. Changes were made to the J-handle shifter mechanics and the transmission selector was now lit.
1975
Stricter emissions regulations saw the introduction of unleaded fuel engines, catalytic converters and it is rumored that cam timings were restricted in 1975 to assist with emissions. Sport and Ranger models were fitted with the F-Series steering wheel, ride heights adjusted and an 800 watt engine block heater was available as an option. Lowest ever production numbers were seen of 13,125.
1976
A Special Decor Group had a matt-black finish grille, tape stripe, side window frames, bright windshield molding and wheel covers. Mechanically long awaited power assisted front disc brakes were fitted, rear brakes were also upgraded, Y steering linkage introduced and a front anti sway bar. Production numbers rose slowly to just over 15,200.
1977
The last year for the early Bronco saw the introduction of a heavy duty 9" rear end housing, gas tank doors replaced exterior caps, rear marker lights were now mounted vertically and a 14.4 gallon and 8 gallon gas tank were made in plastic. This is possibly the best of the early models as it includes most of the previous year features. Some previously standard items, such as a passenger's side seat and padded instrument panel, were made optional this year. In its final year of production, 14,546 Broncos rolled off the assembly line before the large Bronco took over in 1978.
If you're looking to buy a Ford Bronco please visit :http://www.americanautobid.com/Ford/Bronco
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