MOTORCITYCOURIER - THE MOTORCITY CHAPTER OF THE BMW CAR ...
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The Official Publication of the MotorCity Chapter of the BMW Car Club of America November— December 2018
MotorCityCourier
Photo Courtesy Phil Taylor// Sharpe Contrast
2018 Tentative Schedule
Check online at www.motorcitybmwcca.org for the most up-to-date schedule
Also like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter
January
July
1— Happy New Year!
Deutsche Marques show at the Gilmore Museum with
February Michiana Chapter—7
21— Winter get-together at Archie’s Pop up Social— ???
March August
21—Kickoff dinner at Logan’s Roadhouse on the Dream cruise-in— 16
grounds of Oakland Mall
September
April Two day high performance drivers school at Grattan
21—Spring dust off and drive, BMW of Ann Arbor Raceway— 14, 15, 16
May October
6—Car control clinic and intro to autocross Oktoberfest drive— tbd
19— Cars and Coffee at BMW of Rochester Hills November
25—One day high performance drivers school at Working on it...
Waterford Hills
December
June
Holiday party and annual members meeting— 5
9— Cars and Coffee at Erhard BMW Farmington Hills
• Note: italicized events are not affiliated with the MotorCity Chapter BMW CCA and are for information only
• For more information about upcoming events please contact us
The MotorCity
Board of Directors Chapter (the
Club) is a non-
President Phil Taylor 586.484.8600 president@motorcitybmwcca.org profit Michigan Corpora-
tion. It is a chapter of the
Vice President Jeff Jones 248.930.5645 vicepresident@motorcitybmwcca.org BMW Car Club of America
(BMW CCA) and is not in
Treasurer Randy Perry 734.864.2024 treasurer@motorcitybmwcca.org any way connected with
the Bayerische Motoren
Secretary Gary Kulhanek 248.766.0300 secretary@motorcitybmwcca.org
Werke AG or BMW of
Director Gary Davis 734.308.7299 drivingevents@motorcitybmwcca.org North America, Inc. The
Courier is the publication
Director Horst Reinhardt Jr 586.991.2455 newsletter@motorcitybmwcca.org of the Club and its con-
tents remain the property
Director Conrad Naegelin 313.706.2330 director@motorcitybmwcca.org of the Club. It is provided
by and for the Club mem-
bership only. All ideas,
opinions and suggestions
expressed in regards to
technical or other matters
are solely those of the
authors and no authenti-
cation is implied by the
Club or its Officers. The
Team Leaders Club assumes no liability
for any of the information
Dealer Liaison Gary Kulhanek 248.766.0300 dealer@motorcitybmwcca.org contained herein. None of
the information bears the
Driving Events Gary Davis 734.308.7299 drivingevents@motorcitybmwcca.org status of “factory ap-
proved” unless so indicat-
Membership Kristi MacKenzie 810.623.3866 membership@motorcitybmwcca.org ed. Modifications within
the warranty period may
Volunteer-at-Large Dan Cleary 586.665.1488 atlarge@motorcitybmwcca.org
void the warranty. Articles
are subject to editing and
revision. Contents may
not be reproduced without
permission, in writing,
except by the BMW CCA
and its chapters. Though
the Motor City Chapter
attempts to screen club
Communications advertising, it does not
Courier Editor-in-Chief Horst Reinhardt Jr 586.991.2455 newsletter@motorcitybmwcca.org endorse the goods or
services of advertisers in
Website Editor-in-Chief Phil Taylor 586.484.8600 webmaster@motorcitybmwcca.org the Courier. Please direct
any questions about ven-
Social Media Editor David Wong 248.245.7621 socialmedia@motorcitybmwcca.org dor or product recommen-
dations to the Chapter
Photography Any Member 540.318.1600 Officers or Chapter Mem-
bers. Classified ads
Publisher H Media 586.991.2455 online are free to individu-
al BMW CCA members
Printing Services Copyrite Printing 586.774.0006
and $10.00 per ad for
non-members or business-
es. Advertising space is
available in the Courier.
Please contact the Ad
Manager regarding the
rates and terms. This
Change of Address? Contact National HQ at www.bmwcca.org and Newsletter’s monthly
click on the member services area or call 1.800.878.9292 or write distribution is approxi-
to BMW CCA, 640 South Main St, suite 201, Greenville, SC, 29601 mately 850 copies.
MotorCity BMW CCA PO Box 130313, Ann Arbor, MI 48113
Make Your
Car Look &
Feel New!
“Occasional Crisis of
Conscience” Book sale
Head over the Amazon.com and
pick up your copy today— ten
years of all the best writing from
the Courier. Makes a great five
star gift for the BMW enthusiast
in your life.
Phil
changing lanes Taylor
where did we come from, and president@motorcitybmwcca.org
how did we get here?
T
he year was 1968, my cars were created, and Facebook was available, a group active members, and out of the less active
manufactured by “Matchbox & friends in Boston got together, and, in 1969 memberships we know that a large portion
Gorgi” Lyndon Johnson was Presi- formed a car club, what we know as today are fans of the Roundel, some members are
dent of the United States, young “The BMW Car Club of America.” Yes 2019 in it for the rebate on new vehicles, parts
Americans were fighting a war in Vietnam, will be the 50th anniversary of the BMW discounts, and those who were once active
“Hey Jude” by The Beatles was at the top of CCA, a social club with a car problem. members who have had a change in lifestyle
the charts, Otis Reading was “Sitting on The and cannot make as many events as they used
Dock of The Bay”, while Diana Ross & the As the BMW company has grown, so has the too.
Supremes had a “Love Child”. BMW CCA from a small group of friends in
Boston to now 68 chapters across the country As lifestyles have changed, so has the auto-
In automotive history, 1968 was the year and 70,000 members. motive market landscape. In the next couple
BMW introduced the iconic 2002 to the of years, BMW’s sales in North America will
world. And just in case you have been living be 70% SAV’s & 30% cars.
in a bubble for the best part of the year, 2018
marks the 50th anniversary of the little car Launched during a time Our mission, straight from bmwcca.org “Our
that could. This odd-looking boxy sports official mission is: to enhance the BMW
sedan fitted into many markets and quickly
when BMW production experience for our members by providing
garnered a cult following. volumes were starting to fall services, support, information, and activities
that promote camaraderie and encourage
Launched during a time when BMW produc- off, this little car put BMW social awareness and responsibility.”
tion volumes were starting to fall off, this fortunes back on track So, do we in the MotorCity Chapter have it
little car put BMW fortunes back on track,
while at the same time creating the sports correct? Are we providing the service, sup-
sedan market. The 2002 attracted buyers port and correct balance of activities for our
looking for something a bit more sports ori- Where do we go from here? membership? What is it that we are doing
ented for spirited driving, as well as buyers well, and what can we improve upon? If you
with young families who wanted a car that So, for the second part of this column, I’d have any suggestions on a new event, or
was much more fun to drive and fitted a mul- like to talk about “Where do we go from would be willing to volunteer, we would
titude of needs. here?”. At the end of September, I attended really like to hear from you.
the BMW CCA North Central Region Chap-
Manufactured between 1968 and 1976, the ter Congress, the forth regional congress to
2002 had several body styles including a discuss the future of the BMW CCA. Over
cabriolet, targa and station wagon, but only the last couple of years, the BMW CCA has
the two-door sedan was ever sold in the US seen a drop off in membership from 76,000
market. People and car enthusiast wanted a to 70,000 today. In our meeting we discussed
bit more “Giddy Up”, and between 1972 – why we are seeing a drop off in membership,
1974 BMW produced the 2002 tii upping the and what we need to do about it to ensure we
power by 25% from approximately 100 hp to are around for the next 50 years. What is it
125 hp. The tii also came with upgraded that we do well? how do we improve it? what
suspension & bigger brakes. are we doing badly and what should we be
doing differently?
Due to its cult following groups of people &
car enthusiasts started to hang out with each Data & research tells us that from the 70,000
other, and a long time before the internet was current members roughly 10% – 15% are
www.motorcitybmwcca.org // November— December // 5
The MotorCity BMW CCA Board is grateful for such a large and diverse
group of members. We have always encouraged all members to get more
involved with chapter events. This is your car club, so please help make
it interesting and fun for all. The Board needs your help and encourages
you to play a part in many ways such as:
Articles for the MotorCity Chapter newsletter, the COURIER
Pictures for the COURIER
Volunteers for events
Ideas for events
Planning events
Whatever comes to mind!
Don’t Forget: Like us on Facebook!
www.motorcitybmwcca.org // November— December // 7
1845 S. Telegraph Bloomfield Hills, MI 48302 248-642-6565 8 // www.motorcitybmwcca.org // November— December 2018
Annual Holiday Party Sponsored by
Erhard BMW
T’was the club party before the
Holidays, and all throughout Erhard,
every attendee was stirring, seeking
out their next ride...
The premier social event of 2018 for
the MotorCity Chapter was a huge
success as Erhard BMW out did
themselves once again. Leslie Rhodes
and the entire Erhard team greeted our
club with a warm welcome for the
Holidays at their magnificent new
Bloomfield Hills showroom decorated
for the season.
125 members enjoyed a great evening
of BMW discussion and camaraderie
along with a fabulous meal. Equally
important, the attendees helped
provide toys donated to Orchards
Family Services in Southfield to
brighten the season for those less
fortunate.
In addition, a few members themselves
received some goodies from the raffle,
including a new BMW bike! If you were
unable to attend, make a point of
scheduling the event for 2019. It is a
great reminder of the great people that
make up our chapter as well as the
support we receive from our dealership
partners.
— Gary Kulhanek
www.motorcitybmwcca.org // November— December // 9MotorCity Chapter Driving Events 10 // www.motorcitybmwcca.org // November— December 2018
See You in 2019
Images by Phil Taylor// Sharpe Contrast Photography
www.motorcitybmwcca.org // November— December // 1112 // www.motorcitybmwcca.org // November— December 2018
Words and images // BMW NA BMW X7 exterior: A new dimension in The expansive exterior dimensions of the
luxury BMW X7 take luxury to a new level. At
203.3 inches in length, 78.7 inches wide
BMW has pulled back the covers on a new
and 71.1 inches tall, and with a wheelbase
BMW launched the first-ever definition of automotive luxury. The BMW
of 122.2 inches, the X7 displays
X7 blends presence, exclusivity and
BMW X7 in 2018, the pinnacle harmonious proportions and establishes
spaciousness with the versatile and agile
of BMW’s X Sport Activity itself as the new head of the BMW X model
driving properties customers would expect
family. A new use of forms, dominated by
Vehicle lineup. The BMW X7 builds on from a BMW Sports Activity Vehicle (SAV).
clearly structured surfaces and precise
the class leading comfort, handling, safety The newest and largest model in the BMW
lines, lends the BMW X7 its modern aura.
and technology of all the previous BMW X X line-up uses outstanding powertrain
The largest kidney grill ever designed for a
Sport Activity Vehicle model lines that have options and chassis technology, plus
BMW model features very prominently at
been produced at Plant Spartanburg since generous levels of space in each of its
the front of the new BMW X7. Together
1999. three rows of seats, a luxurious ambience
with the slim twin headlights extending up
and advanced equipment features, to
The 2019 BMW X7 offers standard three to the grill, it emphasizes the width of the
deliver unparalleled experiences for the
row seating for 7 with optional Second-row car and creates presence. When viewed
driver and passengers.
Captain’s Chairs offering a more exclusive from the side, the large windows and long,
seating arrangement for 6. Standard two- BMW’s new design language brings the flowing roofline of the new BMW X7 hint at
axle air suspension, 21-inch alloy wheels modern elegance characteristic of the a spacious interior bathed in light. The rear
and advanced driver assistance systems brand’s luxury-segment models to the doors are longer than the front doors,
ensure that the new BMW X7 lives up to exterior of the BMW X7, and adds visual emphasizing the spaciousness of the
expectations of style, driver engagement, poise, assurance and an overriding sense SAV’s rear compartment and easing entry
passenger comfort and all-weather and all- of authority. The BMW X7 represents the and exit for second and third row seat
terrain capability. next stage in the premium carmaker’s occupants. Clearly structured surfaces and
ongoing model offensive in the luxury the eye-catching character line rising up to
segment.
www.motorcitybmwcca.org // November— December // 1314 // www.motorcitybmwcca.org // November— December 2018
www.motorcitybmwcca.org // November— December // 15
16 // www.motorcitybmwcca.org // November— December 2018
the rear are hallmarks of the brand’s new button, the Driving Experience Control as an option. These comfort seats offer the
design language. The versatile functionality switches, electronic parking brake switch same range of adjustments as the seats
of the new BMW X7 is highlighted by its and controls governing the settings for the for the driver and front passenger. The
8.7 inches of ground clearance. air suspension and optional off-road individual seats for the second row also
modes. The control panel for the standard feature integrated armrests and comfort
The sizeable dimensions of the new BMW
4-zone climate control system also has a cushions. Two second-row seats with a
X7 are also expressed at the rear, which is
new modern design. space between them represent a first for a
broken up by horizontal lines and bordered
BMW SAV and create an exceptionally
by vertical separating edges. The slim LED A standard three-panel electronically
luxurious ambience in the rear
rear lights provide a clear segmentation of controlled panoramic glass sunroof floods
compartment. The space between the
the rear. Bridging the space between the the interior with light. Combined with the
individual seats also provides an access
two units is a chrome bar – a design cue large windows, the new BMW X7 offers a
route to the third row.
only previously encountered at the rear of very open an airy environment to all
the BMW 7 Series luxury sedan. vehicle occupants, irrespective of which In either standard or optional
seat they are in. Electrically controlled configuration, the second-row seats in the
BMW X7 Interior: More space for an
sliding headliner shades are standard for X7 slide fore and aft through 5.7 inches of
exclusive ambiance
the front, center and rear sunroof with the travel. Adjustment of the fore/aft position
The impressive open expanse of the BMW third row passengers having their own – like all other seat positions and backrest
X7 interior brings a new sensation of space controls for the rear sliding shade. angles – is electric for the first, second and
to the luxury segment. The three rows of third row of seats. The backrests of the
The roominess and versatility of the
seats treat the driver and passengers to an seats in the second and third rows can be
interior is underlined by the standard
exceptional feeling of roominess within the folded down and raised electrically via
fitment of three rows of seats (offering
X7’s elegantly appointed interior switches located on the driver’s side as
space for seven people). The two
surroundings. Expansive surfaces and you enter through the rear doors and in the
passengers in the third row can settle into
clean structures give the instrument panel cargo area. The seats in the second row
full-size seats that are fully capable of
a modern look and its lines flow smoothly can also be tilted forward fully to make
accommodating adult passengers over
into the door panels. Large trim surfaces getting in and out as easy as possible for
longer journeys. Comfort levels here are
framed with electroplated accents on the third-row passengers. The second-row
enhanced by an additional rear glass
instrument panel and center console seats can be returned to their upright
sunroof panel, cup holders and armrests
enhance the interior’s elegant and position at the touch of a button, at which
integrated into the side panel trim. The
exclusive aura. point child seats can be fixed in place
standard second row configuration offers
securely and easily using the ISOFIX
Grouped together clearly in the center seating for three. Alternatively, two
attachments.
console are the iDrive Controller, newly extremely comfortable individual Captain’s
designed gear selector, the start/stop Chairs can be specified for the middle row
www.motorcitybmwcca.org // November— December // 17Horst
rants & ramblings Reinhardt Jr
peak auto show II newsletter@motorcitybmwcca.org
T
he North American International what I consider it’s post “Motorama” modern All the major makes were present
Auto Show (NAIAS), aka Detroit peak. and accounted for too, including Porsche,
show marks the beginning of the Ferrari, Lamborghini, Volvo, Mitsubishi,
annual auto show season. Most regional auto shows are Mini— all of which are now no longer
sponsored and operated by local dealerships. displaying in Detroit.
Organizers reported: Often times they stocked the convention
center floor with cars from their own This past year it became clear that
The 2018 NAIAS drew over 5,078 showroom floor. Its hard to believe, but for the buzz is gone.
journalists from 60 countries. Media in most of the history of the Detroit auto show it
attendance saw 52 vehicles make their world was just a local event to help dealers sell car According to the Detroit News,
debut, seven make their North American “only three Detroit brands will have press
debut and 10 special one-of-a-kind vehicles conferences at January's 2019 North
make their first appearance at an auto show. And it’s not just Detroit’s problem— American International Auto Show, with
auto shows in general are no longer show stands dominated by announcements
Following Press Preview, nearly relevant in a cyber world where from Asian automakers.”
40,000 automotive and mobility experts and news is beamed, and repeated and
innovators from 2,002 companies engaged in In a desperate attempt at relevance,
emerging mobility technologies and trends at amplified by amateur bloggers and organizers will be moving the next show’s
Industry Preview. AutoMobili-D symposiums citizen journalists almost instantly date to springtime in 2020. And moving it
continued through Industry Preview, helping away from an industry show where press
set the framework for product benchmarking in the down season. The Motor City, the form all over the world come to see the
and technology immersion. NAIAS is the only heart of the American automotive industry, newsmakers to a consumer show with
show in North America with dedicated had just a regional car show. interactive displays where locals will be able
“industry” days. to test drive cars around mini tracks in front
Not until the 1990’s when the of Cobo Hall.
While new products and Detroit Area Dealers Association (NADA),
technologies took center stage during Press which runs the event, rebranded it “North And it’s not just Detroit’s
Preview and Industry Preview, the heart of American INTERNATIONAL Auto Show” problem— auto shows in general are no
the Motor City was on display for the world was it taken seriously by anybody outside of longer relevant in a cyber world where news
to see at Charity Preview. Nearly $5.1 the state, let alone the country. is beamed, and repeated and amplified by
million was raised for children’s charities in amateur bloggers and citizen journalists
Detroit. In all, nearly 13,000 people attended Things really changed when almost instantly. Physical presence at a large
the black-tie gala, recognized as the largest Toyota and Nissan went so far as to introduce venue is no longer required— it’s costly and
annual single-night fundraiser in the world. entire brands here in Detroit— Lexus and not nearly as efficient as a well produced
Infiniti respectively. story or video that can be shared. Why
Charity Preview has raised nearly compete on a show floor for attention when
$118 million for southeastern Michigan Press “conferences” soon became you can pick a time all to yourself and reach
children’s charities since the Detroit Auto 20 minute Las Vegas style shows, including millions in the comfort of their homes,
Dealers Association established the gala 42 everything from SUVs being driven through unfiltered by the media.
years ago. the windows of Cobo Hall, minivans tossed
through the air on elaborate mechanisms,
That all sounds well and good, but pickup truck introductions which included a
the PR hides the fact that the show just isn’t full on cattle drive down Jefferson Avenue—
what it used to be. I started attending press and that was just Chrysler.
preview days fifteen years ago when it was in
18 // www.motorcitybmwcca.org // November— December 2018Grand Blanc MOTORCARS
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