The collected works of ScottyB

I normally don’t get excited over the release of new cars - particularly BMW’s. Sure, they are nice cars, but the Bangle era of BeeEm seems to go hand-in-hand with monotonous hard edges and unusual fold designs. There are minor changes here and there - but apart from what’s underneath, the picture is usually pretty much the same.

Now you’re going to argue that I - as a Porsche enthusiast - am the greatest of hypocrites. The 911 series that still looks like a 911 over 50 years on completely disproves my point and makes me appear a right bloody muppet.

But this is not so. The 911 series has changed - apart from the basic shape, the low-slung pointy front-end and the paunchy rear, it is a completely different car to the first 911 of yesteryear. Even the latest 997 generation, basically mimicking its predecessor - the 996’s - shape and style, has its differences. The return the classic styled headlights, the harder edges, the refined interior - and performances to match the ever so competitive sport car market. They are minor changes, but have a significant weight to the overall finish.

And this - the minor touch that creates major difference - enhancing a basically great design, is why I love the new M3.

It builds on the Banglesque beginnings and churns out a polished conclusion of design. It’s beasty and muscular without trying too hard.

On paper too, its equally as convincing.

- First-ever V8 M3
- New engine weighs 33 lbs. less than the outgoing M3’s six-cylinder
- 420 horsepower/295 lb-ft at 3900 rpm, 8400 rpm max engine speed
- 0-62 mph in 4.8 seconds, 155 mph top speed (electronically limited)
- 6-speed manual tranny
- MDrive - allows configuration and retrieval of driver-specific performance settings
- All-new aluminum suspension
- Carbon fiber reinforced roof
- Usual complement of “M” appearance, aerodynamic upgrades. Minimal body panel carryover from 3-series coupe
- Regenerative braking used to power the car’s on-board network

So undoubtedly, it will drive equally as good as it looks (bad grammar, yes - but the hell with it).

I’ll take mine in black - with Anthracite wheels thanks.

The first real glimpse into the vision of the upcoming Batman film appeared on the major forum sites today.

Leaked photos from action sequences as well as the first photo, which appears to be Bale reprising his role as Patrick Bateman in American Psycho 2 maybe?

The Joker looks much more ‘raw’ than the Nicholson version - which again, could be a good thing. I’m really liking the fact that they’re taking the Batman series down the ‘adult audience’ route… something I wish they would have done for Spider-Man 3.

Anyway, here they are -

I’d credit the source, but I’ve no idea where they originated from.

This is going to be a good flick…