The BMW 1 Series is by far the smallest car with big ambitions. And with its caricature-type styling, I was initially wondering why in the world BMW would swing for the fences with this miniature dose of Bavarian Motor… But the truth of the matter is, this dose may look miniature but it is anything but.

Let us look at it from the exterior. At first glance, it is a shortened 3 Series with odd proportions. The lights seem large. The wheels seem large, the windows too. But I soon realized these observations were in comparison with the existing 3 Series. Maybe it is simply because we’ve grown accustomed to the 3 Series that the 1 Series seems odd. I begin to think; would I perceive the 3 Series as odd if the 1 Series had been in award-winning production for 30 years and it was the 3 Series that had been newly introduced? Would I then think that the 3 Series as an elongated, thinned-out mutilation of the 1? This was my exercise to adjust my objectivity lens. Clarity then hit me. By all means, this car is pretty. In its best attire, the 135i wears large shoes and sports an aggressive front spoiler which truly spikes its demeanour with a sort of steroid-filled short temper. This car really looks like it is on the edge of striking, ready for takeoff like a pissed-off pit-bull on a leash.

Do not mistake the 1 Series for a revived attempt of the 318 under a new badge. This is nothing of the like. And to make a bold and self-explaining statement; the 1 Series base engine (In North America) is the 328′s famed 6 cylinder which now houses 230 hp. And this little brute packs a 0-60 mph sprint of about 6.5 seconds. I know what you’re thinking at this point, how does the 135i perform? Well, the 135i is the top range (for now) of the 1 Series and employs the 6 Cylinder twin-turbo from the 335 model. Yes, you read that correctly and that translates to 300 ponies to the rear axle on 245/35/18′s. 0-60 mph in about 5.5 seconds, not bad for a tiny car yeah? True to form, the 1 Series is very BMW in the way it drives, handles and performs. With a stiff chassis, sport-tuned suspension and large diameter wheels, the task is achieved with the usual Bavarian refinement and pride. Some may argue that the ride is a tad rough, but the driving characteristics delivered by the 1 are a big reward to small price of comfort. With that said, the BMW 1 Series is very comfortable and its sports seats are well accommodating for driver and passenger.

The cockpit is unmistakably BMW with its usual German simplicity and quality finishing. No rattles, no loose parts and plenty of leather. Although I would have opted for more luxury on the inside considering the price of the 1 Series is not far off that of the 3 Series, but overall this is a great car and provides endless hours of fun.

If you’re looking for a car that takes corners like a go-kart and has endless oomph of torque, this is it. It’s small, practical for city driving and really exciting. On the negative: it’s rather expensive considering a few more quids could get you the 3 Series and its winter capabilities are questionable. You can also opt for the soft-top convertible and soon to come, a diesel model.

For additional information and pictures on the BMW 1 Series, visit: BMW 1 Series at Paragon Autos.

Max Gravel has been writing articles on the automotive industry and automobiles since 2004. Currently he is writing for paragon-autos.com which is a web page dedicated to supplying useful information on luxury cars and aftermarket tuners that modify luxury cars. The web site also offers various services relative to the purchasing of high-end vehicles and employing the right tuner for your car. For expert advice on purchasing a luxury car or help-tips on selecting the tuner that is right for you- visit http://www.paragon-autos.com

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The Porsche 911 appeared in 1964. Now the German luxury car major has introduced a new version of the 911 and named it the new Porsche 911 Turbo.

The Porsche 911 Turbo is an epitome of style and performance. The two-seater car is available in the coupe version and convertible model named as Porsche 911 Turbo Cabriolet. The car shows low fuel consumption. The car is very similar to 911 Carrera, in terms of external styling.

Both the variants of the Porsche 911 Turbo are powered by 3.6L 6-cylinder boxer engine, which can generate 480 bhp. A 6-speed manual transmission is standard and comes with an option of 7-speed dual-clutch PDK with larger clutches and revised ratios compared with the unit used in other 911s. The car reaches a top speed of 310 km/h and can accelerate 0- 100 km/h within 4 seconds. The new 911 also features electronically controlled all-wheel drive system to provide additional traction.

The Porsche 911 Turbo comes distinctive styling and contemporary look that surely match to the taste and lifestyle of the present generation. The front fascia is adorned with stylish bi-xenon headlights which has integral cleaning system. The high-performance LED indicators are integrated on the outer air intake ducts, to give a new exciting look to the car. In the rear end, the spoiler with brake light on its lip, together with tail lights, gives an imposing appearance to the car.

The Porsche 911 Turbo boasts of a spacious and luxurious interior. The leather seats come with full electric adjustment of height, backrest angle, squab angle and lumbar support. Moreover, the dashboard, doors and rear side panels also get leather finish. The car features the comprehensive Porsche Communication Management System (PCM), a fully automatic air conditioning system, Surround Sound music system and a universal audio interface. An option of slide-tilt sun roof can be availed in the coupe version.

The independent front suspension combines McPherson-type struts to ensure good handling and directional stability to the car. The Porsche 911 Turbo comes loaded with all the safety features which include the latest Bi-Xenon gas-discharge technology to offer a light quality similar to daylight; Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), air bags for driver and co-driver and anti-theft protection system. Protection for the occupants is further enhanced by the use of high-strength steel elements in the doors.

Porsche has manufactures this car in solid, metallic and special colors. The solid colors include Black, Guards Red, Carrara White and Speed Yellow. Metallic colors are Basalt Black, Arctic Silver, Midnight Blue, Ruby Red, Macadamia, Meteor Gray, Aqua Blue, Porsche Racing Green. The car also comes in special colors, such as Cream White, GT Silver Metallic, Atlas Grey Metallic, Malachite Green Metallic and Nordic Gold Metallic.

To read more interesting car articles, visit Carazoo.com

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