BMW M-Tec Badges - A Few Myths Dispelled

April 16, 2010

Nigel Marston

http://www.nm-motorsport.com

 

The market is flooded with replica BMW accessories bearing the M-Tec logo. Sometimes it is difficult to tell which are originals and which are copies. This is especially true for M-Tec boot and grille badges. 

Probably the products most copied are M-Tec boot and grille badges. Such replica badges are effectively illegal counterfeits as they are using the M trademark without authorisation. This has led to the circulation of numerous misconceptions about what is and is not original BMW. Following are a few facts .... 

* The letter M on original M-Tec boot and grille badges is always chromed plastic. BMW never made this part of the badge out of metal like many people believe 

* The M stripes are always a sticker. BMW never painted these on or made them from enamel 

* BMW never made an M-Tec grille badge out of the newer style curved M-Tec badge. Those 'new style' grille badges on the market are not original, although its not to say that the badge itself isn't original 

As you will have noticed by now, BMW changed the style of the M-Tec logo when the BMW E39 M5 appeared. It now has a curved surface as opposed to the flat surface of the older style badge. It then appeared on the BMW E46 M3 and on all other M Power models since then. The old style badge faded out with the E30, E34 and Z3 models. 

The perception seems to be that the new style badge is better quality than the older flat style and therefore some believe that because of this, the older style badge is a copy. Obviously, this isn't true. 

The new style curved M-Tec badge has a few little known facts surrounding it...... 

* A BMW supplied new style M-Tec boot badge may include a red stripe which is a darker red than normal; in fact it is almost burgundy in colour. 

* The new style BMW E46 M3 badge includes a burgundy red stripe. However, the badge is smaller than that of many other new style M, M5 and M6 badges etc by about 5mm or 6mm. The M5 and M6 badges have a lighter red stripe. 

* The new style BMW E90 and BMW E92 M3 badge is also smaller than most other M badges. The back of the badge has a slight curve which helps it to fit on the curved boot lid surface of the E90 and E92 M3.

When buying an M-Tec badge,check with the seller that it is original and that its suitable for your BMW. 

There are numerous different types and sizes of M badges available. Whilst each is designed to fit on to certain BMW models in specific locations, many can be used on most flat surfaces on any model. 

Undoubtedly, original M-Tec badges cost much more to buy than replicas but you get what you pay for in terms of quality and originality.

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Nigel Marston has been an independent BMW accessories and parts specialist for the past 20 years and a BMW enthusiast since the late 1980s. He has owned many different BMW models over the years and is well known by people in many countries for his knowledge and enthusiasm about BMW cars. To subscribe to Nigel's free BMW enthusiasts newsletter and read other BMW related articles he has written, visit his website => http://www.nm-motorsport.com

BMW M3: Sexy, Powerful, And Comfortable

By Ian Wendt

The new BMW M3 is a fourth generation car and it continues in BMW's quest to build the perfect high-performance sports car. The M3 has been designed to thrill. It is equipped with a completely new V8 engine and drive train, a lightweight body that is very rigid, a lowered center of gravity and a carbon roof that is just as strong as steel but weighs far less. As always, all systems have been tried on the toughest testing ground in the world.

For this car, style is not the main goal; it will always be designed by functionality. The front is designed to accommodate the high-rev engine. The back sports a wider track and four tailpipes. Even the shape of the exterior mirrors enhance the overall aerodynamics. It is this mixture of form and function that guarantee the the final effect. This car provides sports performance that is perfectly suited for everyday driving.

You will immediately see what the high-rev engine is able to accomplish when you turn the key in the ignition. Push this new BMW to its limits and experience the pleasure of driving such a powerful automobile as you shift the gears and put the car into motion. Maintain tight steering as you round the first curve so you don't give up your advantage. The BMW M3 can be individualized with original paint finishes. Listen to the powerful engine as it reaches 8,400 rpm.

The car's exterior features well-designed headlights which are the optimum shape to deflect wind as it moves quickly over the bonnet. The gracefully-curved front section has wide wind intake vents. The long curving lines if its elegant body and sloping roof discourage wind resistance and allow the BMW M3 to accelerate smoothly and fluidly. There's no wonder why the performance of a BMW is unsurpassed anywhere.

One glance inside the cockpit and across the distinctive dashboard and you immediately know that within the BMW 3 Series M3 hides a realm of discoveries: interior trims in fine wood, titanium or aluminum compliment the perfectly combined colors and materials that underscore the generous spaciousness inside the vehicle.

You would be forgiven for overlooking the intelligently positioned instrument dials - they are simply placed where you expect to find them. Their seats are remarkably spacious and comfortable. The optional Sports seats, with their excellent side support, are perfect for dynamic driving, and make the longest journey into a relaxed pleasure.

The new BMW M3 is a fourth generation car. The well-developed rear offers room for the wider track and quadruple tailpipe system. The interplay of each factor achieves the best result: sports car BMW performance. If you start the ignition, you will instantly see what the high-rev engine is capable of. Shift up through the gears to propel this new BMW forward. Brake as you approach the first bend but keep your steering tight. You can configure your BMW using original paint finishes and enjoy the powerful sound of the engine at 8,400 rpm after your BMW tuning.

BMW's 5-Series has New Names, Much Better Performance

By Hailey Kerr

BMW has changed the name of its six-cylinder powered midsize, luxury 5-Series cars for 2008 to emphasize its larger and more powerful engines. The old 525i would be change to 528i with 230hp while the 530i becomes the 535i with 300 hp included on the twin-turbocharged, six-cylinder 535xi Sports Wagon.

The German automaker and producer of high quality BMW 325 parts has also updated the interiors of its 2008 5-Series sedans and wagons with the addition of an optional Lane Departure Warning system that softly vibrates the steering wheel whenever it detects that the driver is wandering out of his or her lane. The manufacturer’s suggested retail price for the 5-Series including destination charge will start at $45,075 for the base 528i.

BMW has also assured that buyers of the 5-Series sedan will love the image that the four-door car conveys. The 2008 5-Series styling and design reflects its performance heritage, a good bit of technology but not lightweight. It is also worth mentioning that would-be BMW 5-Series owners will receive four years/50,000 miles of free maintenance that would include scheduled oil changes and even replacement if worn out windshield wiper blades. This is in addition to the four-year/50,000-mile limited, bumper-to-bumper warranty.

It is also hard to miss out the new found power in the 2008 BMWs. The test 535xi weighs in at nearly 4,000 pounds which means that this particular BMW will not feel lightweight or flighty. Its peak torque is at 300 pounds-feet and can come as low as 1,400 rpm and can reach up to 5,000 rpm which is quite satisfying for any kind of driving.

The 3-liter, twin-turbocharged, inline six-cylinder with variable valve timing for both intake and exhaust functions are similar to the one equipped on the BMW 335i. It was mated in the test 535xi to an updated Steptronic automatic transmission that could be shifter manually. For the 536xi, BMW has removed the confusing and difficult-to-operate Sequential Manual Gearbox.

The power is also increased to its highest ever in the base 528i which has a 3-liter, inline six-cylinder with variable valve timing without the turbocharging. The top range 550i sedan retains its 360-hp, 4.8 liter V8.

Fuel economy is not a highly flaunted characteristic of BMW’s vehicles but for the test 535xi, it was able to perform within the government’s ratings of 17 mpg for city driving and 25 mpg for highway driving. The handling as expected of a BMW was remarkable. The car body was steady and well-controlled in all maneuvers even over some busy road surfaces.

BMW's Theissen On Kubica's Crash, Indy Race

By Anthony Fontanelle

BMW Motorsport Director Mario Theissen divulges the crucial events in the recent Montreal race. He also gave hints on what is expected at the upcoming race in Indianapolis.

Asked about Robert Kubica’s crash in last Sunday’s race, Theissen said: "I was unable to judge the severity of the accident by the initial television pictures. Then seeing the first impact in the replay gave us all a huge shock. I was waiting on the pit wall watching the screens until the rescue work was completed and then went over to the Medical Center to see Robert. Having established that he had not suffered any serious injuries, I returned to the team to tell them the good news and followed the remainder of the race from the pit wall."

Kubica was discharged from the hospital two days after the crash. The Pole intimated that he is ready to race at the U.S. Grand Prix. "It's great that he feels ready to race and is not experiencing any after-effects from the accident. The Chief Medical Officer will have the final say after Robert has been examined in Indianapolis on Thursday. We are prepared in case Robert will not be able to drive. But, of course, we are all hoping that he will line up in the car at the weekend. The ideal scenario for me would be for us all to put the accident behind us quickly with a good performance in the race," Theissen commented.

At present, BMW is inspecting what was left in Kubica’s car including BMW radiator fan and chassis. [Kubica's F1.07] chassis will be examined in Hinwil and we will try to understand as much as possible about the accident. However, the damage profile gives us information we can use to further refine our calculations and further improve monocoque construction in the future. At any rate, the damage to the F1.07-07 chassis is so severe that it will not be used again on the track. If it can be repaired at all we will use it on the test rig. If it is totally beyond repair, it will be scrapped."

The Montreal race triggered debate on the efficiency of life-saving safety technology in Formula One cars and the possibility of transferring them to road vehicles. Theissen said, "The demands involved in series production are different from those in F1, as are the materials used. However, the aim is the same - to produce a durable passenger cell surrounded by crash elements which efficiently absorb impact energy. Everyday practicality, comfort and manufacturing costs all play a role in the production of road cars. In Formula One we do whatever is technically possible. The passenger cell and restraint systems are tailored to one person.”

He added, "In a series-produced vehicle, there are four, five or even more people on board. A road vehicle will generally be built from steel or aluminium, whereas an F1 monocoque is made of carbon fibre. While road vehicles have a crumple zone, the passenger cell of a formula racing car is surrounded by crash elements and designed to absorb the extreme forces generated by a collision. Formula One cars have to pass increasingly stringent FIA tests."

Despite Kubica’s horrible crash, BMW Sauber has one thing to celebrate - Nick Heidfeld grabbing second place. Moreover, the victory pulled the team’s score upwards. "I'm really proud of this team. Nick certainly did not finish second by default. All the incidents in Sunday's race took place behind him. That second place was his on merit - he was simply faster than one of the McLarens and both Ferraris."

BMW Sauber To Strengthen Grip On Third Spot

By Anthony Fontanelle

In the current Formula One season, Team Vodafone McLaren Mercedes is dominating after five races with both drivers tied for the lead in the driver’s championship while leading the constructor’s championship. The closest team that rivals McLaren’s dominance this season is Ferrari with driver Felipe Massa chalking up two wins already. These two teams are, without a doubt, the two best teams this season so far.

Behind the two racing giants, a pack of teams looking for Formula One supremacy is being led by BMW Sauber. The team is currently occupying the third spot in the constructor’s championship. Team boss Mario Theissen is looking to increase their lead over the teams trying to take BMW Sauber’s spot. Williams, Renault and Toyota are the foremost challengers to BMW Sauber’s spot.

After the Monaco Grand Prix, BMW managed to give them more breathing room by building a 14-point lead over fourth pace Renault. During the said race, Renault’s Giancarlo Fisichella finished fourth but BMW Sauber’s Robert Kubica and Nick Heidfeld finished fifth and sixth respectively giving more points to the team.

As the next race of the season approaches, Theissen has made it clear that they are going to improve on their previous performance at the Circuit Gilles Villeneuve in Montreal, Canada. After the Canadian Grand Prix, the team will be tackling the United States Grand Prix.

“Last year, we crossed the Atlantic in fifth place in the standings. In 2007 we will be arriving in Canada as the third best team,” says Theissen. “In 2006 we were only able to take two points away from the pair of races in North America. This is something we are naturally looking to improve on, and we are aiming to collect as many points as possible on the back of our good result in Monaco in order to further strengthen our position in the championship.”

The team’s drivers, Heidfeld and Kubica are both showing their driving prowess as the season goes. At the first race of the season, the Australian Grand Prix, Heidfeld finished fourth while Kubica was forced to retire. On the second race, the Malaysian Grand Prix, Heidfeld once again took the fourth spot while Kubica finished 18th. At the Bahrain Grand Prix, the third race of the season, Heidfeld continued his string of fourth place finishes while Kubica got his first point of the season by finishing sixth.

At the Spanish Grand Prix, Heidfeld retired due to problems with his car’s gearbox even if it is not made up of conventional BMW OEM parts but of components manufactured specifically for the demand of high speed racing. But while Heidfeld did not finish, Kubica took the fourth place again for BMW Sauber. And at the last race leading to the two races in North America, at the Monaco Grand Prix, the tandem finished with points given to each of them.

Looking forward to the Canadian Grand Prix, BMW Sauber’s Technical Director, Willy Rampf, is confident that they can build on their lead over Renault. “We were very competitive in Canada last year, and I am extremely confident that we will be able to come away with good results again this year,” Rampf said.

BMW Sauber Prepares For Canadian Grand Prix

By Anthony Fontanelle

With the Monaco Grand Prix controversy barely over, Formula One teams are already making their preparations for the forthcoming Grand Prix du Canada. After the Monaco Grand Prix, FIA announced that they will be investigating a possible violation committed by team McLaren Mercedes with regards to team orders. Recently, Formula One’s governing body said in a statement that “(McLaren) did nothing which could be described as interfering with the race result.”

With that controversy officially over, teams like BMW Sauber which claimed the fifth and sixth spots at the said race are preparing for the next race of the season. The race will be held at the Circuit Gilles Villeneuve in Montreal on the tenth of this month. The team is currently sitting comfortably on the third place behind McLaren and Ferrari respectively. They already have taken a comfortable lead over fourth place Renault. The team is looking to increase their lead at the high-speed track where the Canadian Grand Prix will be held.

Nick Heidfeld, the team’s No. 1 driver, is obviously looking forward to the race not only for the race but for the view. “Like most drivers, I really like traveling over to Montreal,” Heidfeld said. “The race circuit occupies an incredibly beautiful location on the island in the St Lawrence river, which makes for an unmistakable atmosphere. And the Circuit Gilles Villeneuve itself has a very special character,” added the German Formula One diver.

With regards to the demand of the track on their cars which, of course, do not come with BMW headlights, Heidfeld explains that speed is of the essence for the Canadian Grand Prix. “The race circuit occupies an incredibly beautiful location on the island in the St Lawrence river, which makes for an unmistakable atmosphere. And the Circuit Gilles Villeneuve itself has a very It is a high-speed track with long straights, but also some tight chicanes and a couple of slow corners,” he said. “To start with, the asphalt always has very little grip. When the track starts to get really grippy and the car is working perfectly, though, you can run hard over the kerbs in the second chicane. This chicane also goes downhill, and you get seriously close to the wall on the exit.”

The 30-year old driver also shared his apparent fondness of the city where the race will be held. “Away from the track itself, I also like the city of Montreal a lot,” he says. “There is always a great atmosphere there and the people get really excited about the grand prix. I usually travel to Montreal a few days before the race and have time to do some shopping in the city. I also like to stop by at a few galleries in the old part of town.”

Heidfeld’s teammate Robert Kubica is likewise excited for the upcoming race and the venue. “I am really looking forward to Montreal as it is one of my favorite tracks in the Formula One calendar,” he said, echoing Heidfeld’s affinity for the track.

Whether the team will once again have a good showing at the race still remains to be seen. Mario Theissen, BMW’s team boss, is expecting his team to improve on their performance at the Canadian Grand Prix last year. Last year, Heidfeld finished seventh for two points.

BMW Sauber Learned Lesson, Performed Well In Monaco

By Anthony Fontanelle

With the fifth race of the current Formula One season already in the books, Team BMW Sauber is happy with their performance. The two drivers of the team took the fifth and sixth spots at the Monaco Grand Prix. Robert Kubica posted his second best finish this season at fifth place while teammate Nick Heidfeld manages to latch on to the sixth spot. Team boss Mario Theissen credited their good showing to the lessons that the team has learned in the previous Monaco Grand Prix. Last year, Heidfeld only finished on the seventh place while then teammate Jacques Villneuve finished 14th. This poor showing came after both drivers qualified on the eight row of the starting grid.

This year, the team has taken steps to make sure that their cars can take on the challenges of the narrow tracks. Theissen said that what they have learned in the past has helped them at this year’s Monaco Grand Prix. “Compared to last year's Monaco Grand Prix, we have been able to score a significantly better result,” he said. He continued that: “We had one of our most difficult races here in 2006. Therefore we concentrated on setting up the car more precisely for this unique track, especially with regards aerodynamics and chassis.” These preparations started at the tests in the Paul Ricard circuit and continued in the practice session at the Circuit de Monaco.

Theissen pointed out his team’s mechanical adjustments which were done to their cars. “We introduced a new front wing and added further aerodynamic changes. We also fitted new power steering and made changes to the steering geometry,” he expresses. These changes have made a difference for the team which led them to a 5-6 finish at the Monaco Grand Prix. The improvements they have made to the aerodynamics of their Formula One cars increased traction which is of utmost importance in a narrow track such as the Circuit de Monaco. Whether this development will show the path ahead for the team like a BMW fog light shows the way for a BMW car will be seen come the next races of the season.

Theissen admitted that the tracks at the next two races which will be held in North America will have different requirements than their last race. In spite of that, Theissen is confident that they will continue their good showing at the Canadian and United States Grand Prix. “We are full of confidence for the back-to-back races in North America, though these tracks have completely different requirements,” he said.