Concept Car of the Week: BMW Z13 (1993)

Rear-mounted engine, three seats, central driving position, 830 kg. What might sound like the ingredients for a fantastic little sports car apply in fact to the exceptionally compact and exciting BMW Z13 concept presented in 1993 at the Geneva motor show. BMW engineers and designers developed a car that combined practicality, innovation, safety, economy and, more importantly, it looks like a lot of fun.

Cloud rises over diesel plan for Nissan Maxima

Nissan North America may postpone a V6 diesel engine planned for the Maxima sedan in 2010. Since the company revealed its Maxima diesel plan two years ago, gasoline prices have fallen dramatically, auto sales have collapsed and Nissan has begun reviewing product plans as it scrambles to restore profitability. "We haven't reached a decision on the diesel yet, but we have to consider where we want to put our capital investments," says Larry Dominique, North American vice president for product planning.

McLaren MP4-12C: Fastest round the Top Gear track – EVER

McLaren MP4-12C - destroys the Top Gear Track With plenty of information now floating around on the performance of the McLaren MP4-12C, it’s pretty clear that most feel it to be a quite exceptional car. There do seem to be a few moans about its rather generic design (although that will stop it dating quickly) and some have complained that the MP4-12C doesn’t have the magic a 458 has. Which may have more to do with the different natures of the British and Italians than anything else.