With roots that reach deep into the heart of European road racing, it is easy to discern what the “M” in BMW M represents – Motorsports. Originally initiated in the early 1970s, the specialist tuning arm of BMW began with just a few employees. It has evolved into a major corporation that produces some of the most sought-after performance cars on the planet.

Performance BMW M automobiles demand precise measures of maintenance, repair and modification. Nowhere is this degree of expertise more vividly represented than Forza Tuning and Performance in Clearwater, Florida. Founded by Brenton Brown, the Exotic Car Doc, Forza serves the Tampa, Tampa Bay, Clearwater and St. Petersburg, Florida areas. The Exotic Car Doc has recruited a handpicked team of factory trained technicians, and assembled them in a state-of-the-art facility, to provide a level of BMW M service, repair and performance modification that exceeds that of the dealership. When it comes to twin turbocharger and supercharger kits, factory turbocharger upgrades, cold air intake systems, ECU tuning, performance exhaust systems, performance suspension and brake upgrades and application specific appearance packages; no one is better than the Exotic Car Doc (an ASE L1 Level Certified Technician with more than twenty-years of experience).

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1970s
The BMW M Division first began to gain motorsports recognition in the early 1970s European Touring Car Championships. Nicknamed “The Batmobile”, the BMW M 3.0 CSL looked like it had driven out of the future. The car won multiple championships, including the Six Hours of Nürburgring. By the late 1970s, BMW M had earned a reputation on the track and decided to carry that success into their road cars. The BMW M1 was introduced in 1978 as the only mid-engine powered BMW to date. Initially slated as a Lamborghini build, the BMW Motorsports Division ended up with the project after the Italian automaker backed out. The next M project was the 1979 BMW M 535i. With upgrades in engine performance, chassis configuration, suspension and aerodynamic capabilities, the BMW M 535i was a welcome addition to the luxury segment.

1980s
Making its debut in the early eighties, the BMW M6 featured a unique ‘sharknose’ front clip and GT coupe styling. It is considered one of the most visually appealing models ever produced by BMW. The mid-eighties marked the birth of the super saloon. The 1985 BMW M5 was the first of its kind and featured 285bhp.
Built to dominate the racetracks of Europe, the first BMW M3 was introduced in 1986. Just as the CSL had done in the seventies, the M3 ruled the track. On a brighter note; the M3 was also a very popular road car. With the introduction of such paint choices as Daytona Violet and Techno Violet, this era of BMW M vehicles was eye-catching to say the least. The 1988 BMW M5 offered the same quality that had always been associated with BMW M cars – adding a Touring model to the lineup this time.

1990s
The 1992 version of the BMW M3 paid homage to its motorsport heritage with a 6-cylinder engine. Available as either a coupe, convertible or saloon; the iconic paint color Estoril Blue made its first appearance on this version of the M3. Taking it to a whole new level, the BMW M Division introduced the M850C Si in 1993. With a massive V12 engine and sleek, smooth styling, the M850C Si covered all the bases for a supercar with maximum curb appeal. Despite its roadster platform, the BMW Z3 was not particularly sporty. BMW M Division engineers would change all that in 1996 with the BMW Z3 M Coupe and M Roadster. With 321bhp and near perfect weight distribution, the Z3 M cars became instant classics. As a turning point for the BMW M5, 1998 became the first year a V8 engine was offered. The 394bhp V8 engine, coupled with the stunning good looks of the M5, made it the epitome of a Supersaloon.

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2000s
A naturally aspirated 3.2-liter V6 (338bhp) was the key component to making the 2000 BMW M3 one of the more memorable M-Series models. A distinctive exhaust note, 19-inch wheels and carbon fiber body panels added to the allure of this legendary model. Just when you thought you had seen everything – the 2005 BMW M5 and M6 weare outfitted with a massive V10 engine (400-507bhp). These cars had the capacity to exceed 200 mph under the proper circumstances. Still holding its head high in the resale market, the BMW Z4 M Coupe and Roadster were introduced in 2006. Both cars were simply stunning, especially with the full M treatment. The fourth generation (2007) BMW M3 offered a naturally aspirated V8 in a rear-wheel drive package. Available as either a convertible, saloon or coupe, this iconic mix continues to fetch admirers of all ages.

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2010s
Despite its backward name, the 2011 BMW 1M continues to be a highly sought-after model. It is the first M-Series vehicle to be turbocharged. Estimated resale value for a 1M in excellent condition may exceed the new car purchase price. Speaking of turbochargers – the 2011 BMW M5 replaced its massive V10 engine with a twin turbocharged (4.4-liter) V8. No need to worry; with 552bhp the smaller engine and forced air induction outdid the V10 by more than 50hp. What? A four-wheel drive BMW M car? Oh yeah! The 2017 BMW M5 can accelerate from 0 to 62 mph in just 3.4-seconds. By the way, the M5 can be transformed back to rear-wheel drive at the touch of a button. The latest BMW M lineup offers coupe, convertible, sedan and even sports activity vehicle options. M-Series vehicles continue to push the envelope between luxury and performance.