Arias Pistons 12.5:1 Compression 82mm Bore Honda B-series on 2040-parts.com

BMW M3 Convertible (2008): first official pictures

By Stephen Dobie First Official Pictures 18 January 2008 15:08 The M3 family has swelled further with BMW’s announcement of the new convertible version - and a twin-clutch gearbox. This is the first M3 with a folding metal hardtop, and the first with BMW's new transmission. It's a new seven-speed gearbox called M DCT gearbox – a double-clutch affair (like VW's seven-speed DSG) allowing near-instant changes, with little drop in power.

2015 VW Passat price & specs – costs from £22,215

The 2015 VW on sale 7th October from £22,215 The latest Volkswagen Passat – the eighth generation, no less – was revealed in July as a sleeker, lighter and more upmarket Passat – one which could be an Audi if the badges were changed – as VW try once again to deliver a Passat that will make a real mark in its sector. Based on VW’s MQB platform, the new Passat gets a more rounded look, swept back headlights and a back end that looks more appealing and is set to go on sale on 7 October in VW’s UK showrooms. VW are only offering diesel engine options at launch, with a choice of a 118bhp 1.6 litre, a 2.0 litre with 148bhp or 187bhp and a 2.0 litre bi-turbo with 237bhp, DSG ‘box and 4MOTION.

GM repays Government loans – sort of

GM Loans repaid early - or are they? We can’t deny that GM are making a pretty good job of rising Phoenix-like from the ashes of their effective bankruptcy. A new focus on cars that are relevant for our times instead of a fixation with dated products and dated management has certainly helped.