Spotted - BMW M1

Classic late 1970's styling by Guigiaro, chassis by Lamborghini, and that fabulous 3.5 liter M88 straight "six". One of the most unique cars ever to wear the BMW badge. One of 456 examples built between 1978 and 1981 so that BMW could homologate the car for racing. And to think I almost didn't show up to the show today! Yes, fit and finish is a bit crude (even by 1980 standards) and the power is nothing to write about compared to today's power plants (273 hp). This car is arguably where the M magic started. What a great opportunity to see first hand this amazing piece of engineering! Never underestimate Seattle's ridiculous wealth to attract the most interesting machinery to our corner of the planet.

The Evolution of BMW M5 Engines

I was looking at some of the photos captured earlier this year and came across this three showing the evolution of the M5 power plants. My personal favorite? I like the I6 on the E34 although I would prefer an E28.

S38B36 3.6 liter developing 310 hp / 266 lb·ft powered on the E34 version.

Spotted - BMW E30 M3

This well cared for E30 M3 may be too nice for my friend Ivan but it certainly would look great in my garage... ;-)

Source: Photographed by the author at the 2011 Burgers and BMW event in Issaquah, Washington.

Spotted - BMW E12

This E12 was in great shape when I spotted it at the Triple X Root Beer Drive-in back in the Spring. Kudos to the owner for keeping it in such beautiful shape!

Click on the image to enlarge.

Source: Photographed by the author at the 2011 Burgers and BMW event in Issaquah, Washington.

Engines - BMW 2002 - M05

Cleanest BMW 2002 I have ever seen... This one I captured last year at the XXX Rootbeer Drive-In. All that seems to be missing is the original air cleaner assembly. A beautiful restoration and detailing job.

According to Wikipedia: "The 2.0 L (1990 cc/121 in³) M05 produced 100 hp to 120 hp (75 to 90 kW) and 157 ft·lbf to 167 ft·lbf (213 to 226 N·m). Bore was 89 mm and stroke was 80 mm."

Spotted - BMW Isetta

I spotted this great looking 1958 BMW Isetta at the same car show I saw the Fiat Multipla. Another great example of a dedicated owner keeping these historic cars on the road.

Spotted - BMW 2002 Touring

I came across this nice BMW 2002 Touring while walking around the pits area during the SOVREN Vintage races. First time I have seen one in 'the metal'.

LS1 Powered BMW 3 Series

I recently came across this BMW 3 Series (E30) sporting an LS1 engine donated by a Corvette. Looks like a tight fit! A very professional looking conversion by a young enthusiast. I bet it sounds awesome.