10-30-2014, 02:35 PM | #89 | |
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Having said that RCF is just too heavy for what it is and it's interior space is lacking big time. |
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10-30-2014, 03:28 PM | #90 | |
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I think we can all agree that BMW has the engineering pedigree to have been able to take an engine like the S65B44, and made it more fuel efficient, perhaps even more powerful. It can and could have been done. However, that R&D, engineering, testing, manufacturing and fabrication come at a cost. Trying to squeeze out more power with less emissions from a NA motor is too costly considering the marginal improvements. Tangible returns on investment pail in comparison to alternative approaches, e.g., forced induction. This brings us to a point that is so obvious, but seems to escape some. The overarching role of an engine, is to convert energy into mechanical motion as efficiently as possibly and in a way (curve) that works in harmony with the rest of the car, not provide an intangible, emotional value to your experience. The fact that NA engines do, is a mix of both nostalgia and the bi-product of unrestricted induction and exhaust, not an engineering objective. Lastly, if BMW had taken that route, I think we'd pretty much be looking at (minus the looks) a BMW RC 3/4. A lovely, sonorous, high-powered V8 with great efficiency to match. But, that cost would come at a great expense and the budget to engineer your way to reduce weight, use CFRP, introduce CCB, etc. would have suffered significantly. We'd be looking at the same unfortunate trend, M cars still getting heavier and heavier over their predecessors. Instead we have a vehicle that beats the RC F in every single performance metric, except one, that almighty intangible benefit of sound. If sound is really that big of a deal for you guys, pick up a worked B18C or F20C or any other number of engines. My S65 had nothing on these little motors in terms of visceral, mechanical, screaming sound. All hell breaks loose when that second set of cam lobes engage. Despite all of the negativity regarding BMW's decision to use a TT I6, I have yet to see someone lay out an alternative engine platform that would have met performance & emission requirements while simultaneously keeping the weight reduction initiative intact without a significant increase in MSRP. Finally, I'll say this. The complexities of the global economy, markets, commodities, currencies, OTC derivatives market, future emission requirements, laws, regulations, and the fact that the United States in headed into a very significant, long-term recession, has a significant invisible-hand at the drawing board for current and future BMWs. BMW is already selling more cars in China than the US, and despite the misnomer that seems to exist, China's government is VERY strict regarding emissions because the matter has become a threat to State security. It's a complicated world -- emerging markets and the laws, emission restrictions, demographics and growth prospects that reside within, will continue to have a greater impact on vehicle design/implementation than what gets it around the Nurburgring the fastest. Capitalism couldn't could care less if the car sounded like a Dyson, so long as it adds to the companies financial integrity, and it will only get worse. It's the cycle of capitalism, a systemic race to the bottom chasing profits, until you are left with a car museum of what made you great in the first place. Best, |
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10-30-2014, 03:33 PM | #91 |
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I'm not sure I like Carlos as a dude too much. He's a bit arrogant and thinks a bit too highly of himself and his driving abilities. He's no Chris Harris. In word or deed.
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10-30-2014, 05:03 PM | #92 | |
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There is also the GS-F coming out, and nobody yet knows how much hp it is coming with, or it's weight. I'll say this, if the IS-F or the GS-F is a porker like this RC-F, then they will suffer. Also, an interesting sidenote, is that apparently, the CF hood and deck lid for the RC-F will not be available for the US market, Lexus' largest market. With those CF parts, at least a few pounds could be shed. Also, the Predator/Norelco grille---it's a love it or hate it design. Like Audi's Horse collar grilles. At least it cannot be said that Lexus design is boring anymore. |
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10-30-2014, 06:40 PM | #93 | |
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10-30-2014, 07:16 PM | #94 | |
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(in my opinion, of course)
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10-30-2014, 08:22 PM | #95 |
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I think you are very wrong on this... have you read the views of the people who actually know about and understand suspensions and their views on the adaptive suspension. My bet is the car is slower by a margin on a rough track with the passive suspension.
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10-30-2014, 09:48 PM | #96 | |
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Anyhow, since when is Chris Harris the standard by which to judge all other auto journalists? Every journalist is different and has his/her own style. No need to bash them for being original and doing their own thing. I like Harris' stuff, mostly because his witty presentation skills seem to draw the audience into the driving experience. Carlos has his own way of presenting material but also has bit of an analytical perspective on the cars and how they work, which I also like. His personal video on the M3/M4 was very interesting and in-depth. |
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10-31-2014, 12:14 AM | #97 | |
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Is that why the knobs and the shift lever lights look like they came from a Toyota? What I cannot stand about Lexus is their inability to not make me think I'm in a fluffed up Toyota when I get inside. When I get inside of a Lexus, that is all I see.... And it's the little things for me. The gear shift indicator, the buttons on the stereo, wheel, or anywhere else are all subpar, the power seat lever, the navigation system... The plastic looking steering wheel and wood inserts. The fit and finish inside just doesn't do it for me. I actually don't mind how some look on the outside, I think that's okay. |
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10-31-2014, 12:22 AM | #98 | |
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10-31-2014, 04:11 AM | #99 | |
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10-31-2014, 06:58 AM | #100 |
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I was browsing for m4 reviews on youtube and found it. Essentially Carlos has his own channel on youtube, separate from Motor Trend. If you search by his full name, you should be able to find his channel.
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10-31-2014, 07:54 AM | #101 | |
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10-31-2014, 08:05 AM | #102 |
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They give press cars out all of the time with weird options that don't make sense. Sometimes it would depend on what cars they had available. There have been many times I have thought to myself that the car a manufacturer sent for a test made little sense. Every review (including Lieberman who drove both suspensions) I have read suggests the adaptive suspension is far better over rougher pavement in terms of keeping the car planted and the wheels on the road and this would have made a difference in lap time in this test. On a smooth, flat track maybe the difference is negligible.
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10-31-2014, 08:34 AM | #103 | |
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10-31-2014, 08:38 AM | #104 | |
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10-31-2014, 08:41 AM | #105 | |
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honestly, its not an opinion, its a fact. like gthal said, they give cars with all sorts of options to different tests. you could also say why would they include a cloth interior when being reviewed against another car? negligible weight loss and a lower quality interior. this isn't Ferrari, who custom tunes their press cars and brings their own pit crew to accompany each test car
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10-31-2014, 08:46 AM | #106 | ||
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10-31-2014, 09:02 AM | #107 | |
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there is no conspiracy theory here.
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10-31-2014, 09:52 AM | #108 | |
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personally I care more about performance than sound. sound is the cherry on top, but not the main course. The car runs cleaner, more efficient and faster. that's pretty great. |
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10-31-2014, 10:08 AM | #109 | |
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10-31-2014, 12:25 PM | #110 | |
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The main benefit for BMW is that the S55 could be produced in the same production plant like all other BMW I6s ... that saved compared with the unique S65, which was produced in the special "Sondermotorenbau" in Munich, 50% of the engine production costs ! |
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