BMW has always been at the top when it comes to luxury car manufacturing. BMW aficionados will go crazy yet again for the third installment in the Coupe series, the 2011 BMW 6 Series Coupe. Another intoxicating chapter has been added to the company’s decades-long legendary pursuit of premium car manufacturing.

This model can impress anyone with its sleek, irresistible design and inspire future cars with superbly sharp driving dynamics and with even more spacious interior. The aesthetics are captivating, superb engine performance, and exceptionally innovative equipment featured on this car gives this model that ultimate dream car credential.

The design of this model is unparalleled with a combination of sporty and elegance. Combining a 2+2 seater dynamics of a sports car yet touring comfort is unmatched by any other sports car sold in the market today. Length of body and wheelbase is 75 mm longer than previous models which greatly enhance comfort levels of rear passengers.

This new addition to the Coupe series gives an ideal balance between riding with comfort and dynamic handling all thanks to its newly produced chassis. The adaptive head lights provides intense white beams to fully illuminate roads and allows the light beam to follow the road’s progression. Jam-packed with features and abilities, this new model to the Coupe series has made the dream car status progress to even greater heights.

Specifications

The 2011 BMW 3 Series belong to the 5th generation of 3 Series cars that have been in production since 1975. Currently the best selling model in the entire BMW line, this midsize sedan aims to continue the tradition of being one of the best midsize cars in history. There are 4 body types for the BMW 3 Series, and for the first time in its history, the sedan, wagon, coupe, and convertible are now independent designs instead of being essentially the same car with different body shells like from the previous generations.

Performance

3 engines are available for 3-series. The first option is a 3.0 liter inline-6 capable of producing 230 horsepower. Second option is the same engine but with a turbocharger equipped, upping output into 300 horsepower. And the third option is a 3.0 liter twin turbo diesel engine that is able to produce 265 horsepower and an incredible 425 lb/ft of torque.

A six-speed manual transmission is standard, while a six-speed automatic and a seven-speed DCT transmission are optional equipment. Two Powertrain options are available: to rear wheels or to all 4 wheels. A bevy of safety equipment also abounds in this car. A host of airbags, anti-lock brakes, and stability control are all standard equipment.

The BMW 3 Series is a legendary model for a lot of reasons and it can’t be consistently critically acclaimed for nothing. One of the biggest selling points of the 2011 model is its great performance (and we’re not yet talking about the M3). Whatever the engine, it is guaranteed to provide great amounts of speed in a hurry. In addition, the suspension is tuned for great handling and the brakes are incredibly strong.

Exterior & Interior

The BMW 3 Series still looks like a quintessential BMW, no matter what the body type is. The bulbous trunk that made most people scratch their heads is now modified, the unique front fascia of the coupe transferred to the sedan and wagon, and for the coupe and the convertible, a slight modification of the front and rear lights, grills, and bumpers. These changes are subtle but just enough to freshen up its looks. The interior is also made with superb quality.

The seats are comfortable and durable, and truly is a good place to be for long distance rides, at least when seated on the front. The rear seats suffer from lack of space (something unexpected for a midsize car), and can really be problematic when bringing in full sized adults for a ride. The materials used for this car are top-notch, with serious attention to detail. A much improved iDrive system is a welcome addition.

Safety

Also, safety is very high on this car. It is equipped with all kinds of get-safe gizmos, even the convertible has built in rollover hoops that can come out in case the car flips. The materials and electronics are also top-notch, and the iDrive system is much simple to use than ever before. And the diesel variant is deceptively great: it has sports-car killing performance and top-notch fuel economy.

Competition

The Mercedes Benz C class (MSRP $33,990; 18 city / 26 hwy) and the Audi A4 (MSRP $34,500; 21 city / 27 hwy) sedans are perhaps the closest competitors to the BMW 3-series.

No matter how great the 2011 3 Series is, it has its share of weaknesses too. One of the most criticized parts of this car is the lack of rear space. Most find the back seat too cramped. Also, the boot space is average at best, with it going much lower in the convertible variant. And some people may find the suspension settings to be too harsh for daily driving.

The 2011 BMW 3 Series delivers strongly just like its predecessors. It is comfortable, stylish, elegant, and fun to drive. It is indeed a best seller for a reason, as it is a car that just about anyone can truly appreciate. It’s an ultimate driving machine indeed.

Overall Rating
74 out of 100

What others say:

“The 2011 BMW 3-Series continues the tradition of excellent handling, brisk performance, and high quality, though its relatively compact size does result in some compromises.”Car Connection

“With manual transmission, the rear-drive 328i has smooth power for around-town driving and highway passing.”Consumer Guide

“Unmatched ride/handling balance, smooth and powerful engines, reasonably fuel-efficient, upscale cabin, four body styles, elegant hardtop convertible design, available diesel engine.”Edmunds

Specifications

Terrorizing roads since first coming out in 1992, the Dodge Viper has carved a legend for itself. Taking the muscle car concept to the hilt, it is powered by a big block V10 engine that produces a ton of power even on low rpm, making mincemeat out of all kinds of sports cars. However, this “niche car” by Dodge was discontinued in 2010.

However, fans need not despair, as a new generation of the Viper is going to be released in 2012 at the earliest. The 2013 Dodge Viper is going to usher in a new era in this American beast. The first prototype emerged in 2010 in a private conference organized by Chrysler. It was warmly received, but the final product could be considerably different.

Performance

Just like the design, the mechanical bits of the next generation Viper is also up in the air. Of course, the V10 engine with an output around the 600 horsepower neighborhood will always be there, but there are rumors that an “entry level” Viper is going to be equipped with a V8 engine capable of producing 500 horsepower. However, what specific engine would be installed is still a puzzle. A modified version of the 8400 cc V10 is the most likely candidate. Modified to increase output to 700 horsepower and made to pass 2018 emission regulations, it seemed like the preemptive frontrunner as engine of choice for the new Viper.

New Features

There are rumors circling around the development of the next generation Dodge Viper, some even coming with conflicting inputs. One thing is for sure, it is going to be a major update aiming to modernize the car and make it more palatable to the younger audience. It will feature lighter and more technologically advanced components to save weight. Also, electronic stability control is slated to become standard equipment for the first time.

Adding to the unpredictability of the Viper project is the acquisition of Chrysler by Fiat. Because of this new partnership, it is very possible that it will share parts with other Fiat companies such as Ferrari, Maserati, and Alfa Romeo. There are various rumors that styling cues will be borrowed from some Fiat company vehicles as well some crucial components. Other rumors state that brands such as Ferrari is going to help out in the fine tuning of its handling, engine characteristics, and the like. In fact, some have even said that it shares characteristics with the Alfa Romeo 8C and the Maserati Gran Turismo. Right now, everything about the design is still up in the air.

By the time it gets released in 2012 at the earliest, it is expected to compete with new iterations of sports car legends such as the Lotus Esprit and the Honda NSX, not to mention existing sports cars such as the Audi R8, Porsche 911, Nissan GT-R, Ferrari 458 Italia, among others. However, it is too early to tell as of now, as the development of the 2013 Viper is still a secret seemingly only known by Chrysler (and Fiat) insiders. Whatever the finished product may be, it is safe to say that it will be a heck of a car, just like its predecessors.

Specifications

Carlsson, an automobile tuning company, has set out again to introduce a car exceptionally designed with added sportiness, individuality and authenticity, but at the same time luxurious and elegant – the 2011 Carlsson-Mercedes Benz S-class.

This model has an engine which can impress up to a whopping 600 horsepower and maximum torque set up to 1020 Nm. Together with the sport exhaust system and air filter system, the result is a tremendous amount of engine power which can pump hefty amounts of adrenaline to anyone. It can accelerate from 0-62 mph in 4.3 seconds and go well over to its top speed of 198 mph (320 km/h).

There are four additional headlights and a vertical daytime LED light to ensure road safety anywhere, anytime of the day. The interior is tailored exactly to what customers prefer promising new heights in luxury. The customer has freedom to choose the color of the leather, the stitching, and the piping at no extra cost at all. The Carlsson logo is found on the headrests and on the door sill as a blue illuminated signature. Overall, this car exudes a good amount of sportiness while at the same time retaining its exclusivity and individuality, and a sense of luxury.

Specifications

*Modified Specs

The 2011 BMW 7-Series has become one of the world’s best selling luxury cars since its introduction 30 years ago. Today, the 7-Series awakens softly, but drives powerfully with its state-of-the-art technology together with sophisticated equipment designed for classic, yet contemporary styling. It has a central dynamic four-wheel steering system, damper control and automatic transmission providing driving comfort, which is without comparison in its class. It has an exceptional engine smoothness and excellent display of power. All these provide ample amount of comfort.

Performance

There are four engine choices for the 2011 7-Series. The 740i and 740Li models have twin-turbo six-cylinder engines, the 750 models with V8 engines, while the 760 model having a powerful V12 engine. Their turbochargers produce 315 to 535 HP at 5,250 to 5,800 RPM, and 330 to 500 pound-feet at 1,500 to 1,600 RPM of torque. Its city/highway fuel economy ranges from 17/24 MPG to 13/19 MPG.

Interior & Exterior

Inside, the 7-Series are quality materials and standard electronic features. The cabin was luxuriously design, too. It is roomy with plenty of passenger space. Its exterior measures 74.9 inches width, 58.3 inches height, 199.8 inches length, 63.4 inches front track, 65 inches rear track, and 120.9 inches wheel base. Its cargo capacity with all seats in place is 14 cubic feet. It weighs 5455 lbs, but can seat 4344 lbs of weight – a considerably bulky super luxury car. For comfort, it has an interior active charcoal air filter, extended cabin heating, 4-zone climate control, sun sensor, front and rear reading lights, dual illuminating vanity mirrors, and electro chromatic rearview mirror.

Safety

Normally, super luxury cars are not crash tested and so, the 2011 7-Series has not been crash tested yet. However, it is equipped with stability and traction control, standard anti-lock brakes, and airbags at the front, front-knee, front-side, and side-curtain areas. Front seat passengers also have active head restraints. There are also optional safety equipment which includes blind spot monitoring, rear and side-view cameras, adaptive cruise control with a collision warning system, and infrared night vision system. BMW also offers a 4-year/50,000-mile warranty which includes roadside assistance and scheduled maintenance.

Competition

The 2011 BMW 7-Series has been compared to the Mercedes Benz S-Class (MSRP $91,000; 19 city / 25 hwy), Audi A8 (MSRP $78,050; 17 city / 27 hwy), Lexus LS 460 (MSRP $67,130; 16 city / 24 hwy), and the Porsche Panamera (MSRP $74,400; 18 city / 27 hwy). The first of these has more standard interior equipment, luxurious cabin, and a superior balanced ride. The Benz also offers a more potent engine. When the road gets tortuous however, the 7-Series is still the top choice. BMW also offers a lesser price. On the other hand, the Panamera would have been a better choice, too. It’s just that, the 7-Series can seat more. Moreover, as compared with these top super luxury vehicles, the 7-Series sits at number 3.

Pros & Cons

The 7-Series ensures its fans the variety of powerful and smooth engines, excellent handling, extreme long-distance capability, magnificent seats, and superior maneuverability of four-wheel steering. This may not be the car for everyone, but for premium luxury car seekers, this is the one to look for.

BMW’s 7-Series has also earned positive reviews. For its performance, it can offer higher efficiency because it has returned its use of 6-cylinder engines. It also scores high in fuel efficiency compared to others like it. And despite its bulk, it can still provide comfort and enables the driver to choose from suspension settings to customize the car’s handling techniques.

Although the 2011 7-Series has all these high tech features, others of its kind from competitors have better interior materials. They also a have a more calm ride. Another notable disadvantage of the 7-Series is its lack of rear-side impact airbags. Regrettably, it was available on its previous generation.

Overall Rating
86 out of 100

What others say:

“Call us converts: The latest BMW 7-Series turns our eyes more than ever and drives with real big-guy brio.”Car Connection

“Fine in normal driving, but full-throttle takeoffs start with a somewhat timid launch followed by a strong surge as the turbos get cooking. This somewhat non-linear throttle response makes for unwanted lurching in around-town driving.”Consumer Guide

“Variety of smooth and powerful engines, standout handling, supreme long-distance capability, sublime seats, enhanced maneuverability of four-wheel steering.”Edmunds

Specifications