Get Noticed For All The Right Reasons

Now Available for the BMW F80 M3 and F82 M4

The Dinan High Flow X-pipe for the F8x M3/M4 elicits an aggressive sound that is sure to capture the ear of all bystanders and delivers the aural recognition that all M3/M4 owners deserve. Coupled with the associated Dinan exhaust the sound is further perfected into an aggressive growl that harkens back to the Dinan E9x M3 racing middle exhaust. Rightly so as the same custom X that was used in that application is implemented on the new F8x chassis for that perfect mix of exotic undertones and raw aggression. Unlike a stamped x-pipe that is so common in the marketplace the Dinan 'X' is thoughtfully designed for maximum flow characteristics and by itself is a work of art.

The Dinan X-Pipe removes the factory center section after the secondary catalytic converters, including the large resonator. In its place Dinan introduces straight through mandrel bent 2.75" T304 stainless steel tubing and the custom 'X' for better flow, and an improved throaty sound. In addition, the kit comes complete with mounting hardware, OE quality clamps and flanges, for simplified installation.

Movie Cars, Gumball Rally, Ferrari Daytona Spyder

Some people go to the movies because of their favorite actor. Others because the previews look amazing. One thing is for sure, any movie with a good car chase scene or two is worth seeing. Although there have been some great movies created in the last 10 years with exciting car chase scenes, nothing compares to the classics. Transcontinental road races were a popular theme among films in the 70’s and 80’s. According to blogger Matthew Lang at www.drivecult.com, “The most famous of these [films] is the series of three Cannonball Run movies, based on the actual Cannonball Baker Sea to Shining Sea Memorial Trophy road races that took place in the mid-seventies.”

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You can’t beat the thrill of a grip-the-edge-of-your-seat road race scene, and the third movie in the Cannonball Run series, The Gumball Rally, had some pretty sweet European autos vying for position. Although the 1976 film received lackluster reviews from movie critics and was dubbed a “forgettable movie”, the European cars it featured were anything but forgettable.

Whether you’ve seen The Gumball Rally and it’s been a while, or you’ve never heard of it, put it on your to-watch list for the next time you’re in the mood for a movie. The Gumball Rally is about a motley group of auto enthusiasts who partake in a secret and illegal coast-to-coast road race across America. Prompted by a phone call from their mysterious leader and race coordinator, a bored but wealthy candymaker played by Michael Sarrazin, the race teams leap into action at his mention of the code word “gumball.” The race has one rule, “there are no rules.” The plot is wrought with unfortunately funny mishaps as the characters dodge the cops and engage innocent bystanders, deal with the crazy antics of their teammates, and maneuver through carefully coordinated stunts and chase scenes as they attempt to reach the finish line. It’s precisely these chase scenes that put The Gumball Rally on the map, pun intended.

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One of the chase scenes features an early 1970’s Ferrari Daytona Spider. Actually, it features two; the first, a 1972 (SN16467), the 71st of only 121 factory-built Daytona Spiders, which crashed during filming, was rebuilt, and went on to be used in the movie A Star is Born where it was heavily crashed again and later rebodied in a new style, a “NART Spyder”; and the second, a 1971 (SN14829), which replaced the first Daytona Spider and is still alive and well today. It was recently sold at auction in 2013.

Just like how a mediocre film can be transformed into a classic by virtue of its chase scenes, can the cars in those chase scenes become representations of our wildest fantasies of strength, freedom...and felony speed. An excerpt from the famous Daytona Spider’s auction listing posted on www.finecars.cc described the transformative properties of the European vehicle perfectly:

“Owning a Daytona Spider meant something. Out of the 1,406 Daytonas produced between 1968 and 1973, only 121 were spiders; they were the official factory-built convertible versions of the car that a Cavallino article describes as a sight to behold, mean looking and muscled, weaving dramatically on its overworked suspension, shaking and darting under heavy braking in a corner, literally pushing air and dirt aside, leaving a wake and making its own weather, loud as hell and scattering birds to the four winds. Add the feeling of an open roof, the wind whipping one's hair, the sun casting upon one's face, and you had a car that was the Enzo of the 1970s—an ultimate Prancing Horse status symbol.”

Once owned by Mel Blanc, the Man of a Thousand Voices (including the voice of Bugs Bunny), and his son Noel Blanc, the 1971 (SN14829) Ferrari Daytona Spider’s last known whereabouts are that it was purchased for $1.65 million by an unknown buyer at the August 16-17, 2013 RM Auctions in Monterey, CA. And if you remember the movie - yes, the rear view mirror has been replaced.

A complete description of the car’s history can be found here

Let’s talk handling.

SLS AMG
SLS AMG

No car on earth handles better than a modern F1 car. In fact, we have all pretended at one time or another to be a fearless race car driver, hurtling into and out of sharp hairpin turns with elegance and precision. Unfortunately most of us realize the limitations of our vehicle and only half-heartedly perform this day-dream.

However, you can be one step closer to realizing this fantasy with performance-minded solutions from Star Class Motors. It some cases, suspension components have simply worn out with use & mileage. Or, you might simply want to upgrade beyond the OEM setup. In either case, we can help you sort through the options for your Mercedes-Benz or other European car or SUV.

Upgraded suspension systems not only transform the stance of the vehicle, but also help maintain ride quality and improve upon handling. This is accomplished by pairing springs sets with bump stops, spring perches or both to maintain suspension travel resulting in a smooth ride while also improving mechanical grip and handling.

Specifically if you drive a BMW, Dinan high performance spring sets and supplemental ride quality and handling kits will provide unprecedented handling & cornering ability in addition to lowering the vehicle into a much more aggressive stance.  Serious enthusiasts turn to Dinan because they appreciate their ability to make BMW performance upgrades which outperform the rest. Star Class Motors is an authorized Dinan Dealer / Installer.

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Regardless of which European car your drive, we have the experience to help keep it on the road in the safest, most comfortable (and quickest) manner. Please contact us today to discuss your options.

Visual Harmony

Improved Handling. CHECK. Incredible New Stance. CHECK.

We have all pretended at one time or another to be a fearless race car driver, hurtling into and out of sharp hairpin turns with elegance and precision. Unfortunately most of us realize the limitations of our vehicle and only half-heartedly perform the day-dream. However, you can be one step closer to realizing this fantasy with a performance minded solution. The Dinan high performance spring set and supplemental ride quality and handling kit for the F85 X5M or F86 X6M provides unprecedented handling / cornering ability in addition to lowering the vehicle into a much more aggressive stance.

Star Class Motors is proud to offer Dinan performance solutions. At Dinan their passion for both BMWs and BMW parts is evident in their dedication to designing and producing the most innovative and performance driven BMW aftermarket parts on the market. Serious enthusiasts turn to Dinan because they appreciate their ability to make BMW performance upgrades that outperform the rest of the BMW aftermarket industry.

Suspension systems that not only transform the stance of the vehicle but also maintain ride quality and improve upon handling are what Dinan suspensions are known for. This is accomplished by pairing springs sets with bump stops, spring perches or both to maintain suspension travel resulting in a smooth ride while also improving mechanical grip and handling. This is what makes Dinan suspension systems unique. While we are able to sell each component separately it is highly recommend that both the spring sets and the supplemental ride quality and handling kits are used in tandem in order to maintain the Dinan quality standards our customers are used to. Experience the Dinan difference with this combination and enjoy the ride it provides.

Dinan’s Performance Spring set for the F85 X5M and F86 X6M provides greater control over body roll by virtue of carefully calibrated spring rates. Additionally, Dinan lowers the vehicle by a 5/8” in front and 3/4” in the rear for improved suspension geometry and an even more aggressive stance. The Dinan springs are CNC wound with high tensile chrome silicon wire and shot peened for stress relief to last the life of the car. The 10% increase in stiffness to the springs will reduce the rear suspension compression under acceleration and front suspension compression (or dive) under braking, giving your car a more controlled feel. The Dinan performance springs will also provide a noticeable improvement in grip, for high speed driving situations that will inspire confidence in your car’s capabilities. The reduced body roll makes the steering more responsive to driver input.

Benefits of the Dinan Performance Spring Set for the F85 X5 M & F86 X6 M:

  • Decreased body roll from higher spring rates (10% increase in front)
  • Lowers the vehicle 5/8” in front and 3/4” in the rear
  • Shot-peened for stress relief
  • Preset to prevent spring sag
  • Compatible with factory electronic shocks and load-leveling systems

NOTE: Dinan Performance Spring sets should be purchased and installed with the corresponding Ride Quality and Handling Kit to achieve the advertised ride height, performance, and ride quality. While not explicitly required, if the matching component is not purchased and installed you will get less than favorable results in the form of poor ride quality and improper handling traits. While we will maintain a full warranty on product defects, any claims against the car’s improper handling/ride quality traits due to not purchasing the corresponding handling kit will not be warranted.

Great Weekend Drives: The Black Hills of South Dakota

Through spindly rock sculptures and past herds of grazing bison is South Dakota’s Needles Highway. Our neighbor to the north is known for its monuments, but most don’t know about the scenic drive that connects them. Another one of the hidden treasures in the US, the Needles Highway stretches 40 miles from one memorial to the next creating the perfect weekend drive. You’ll begin the journey at the Crazy Horse Memorial. Still a work in progress, the finished product will represent Lakota Chief Henry Standing Bear riding horseback, surveying his lands. Started in 1948, the sculptor Korczak Ziolkowski’s family continues to chip and carve at the massive rock. This means you could take this trip once a year, and watch the progress!

Now it’s time to take that performance vehicle for a stroll along Highway 87 through the majestic Black Hills. And we’re not kidding when we say stroll – the speed limit is 35mph! The reason? This part of the scenic drive goes through ponderosa pines, granite outcroppings, and pastures of grazing bison, antelope, deer, and elk. You wouldn’t want your baby-on-wheels to meet one of those head on! After strolling down Hwy 87 for fourteen miles, you’ll find yourselves in Custer State Park. Home to the largest herd of bison outside of Yellowstone, you can explore in the shadow of Harney Peak, whose altitude is between the Rockies and the Swiss Alps at 7,242 feet. It’s in this shadow you’ll find the cathedral spires, one of the most popular attractions in the park. These needle-like spires that rise from the forest floor, as well as many others, are what give the Needles Highway its name.

The final leg of this journey through South Dakota takes you down Iron Mountain Road or US 16A. At seventeen miles long, it’s known to be a winding view-worthy drive – perfect for your performance vehicle. In fact, it’s been called a historic work of art that’s made to slow you down. Iron Mountain Road is also known for its one-lane tunnels and wooden spiral-shaped “pigtail” bridges. These are what frame the way to Mount Rushmore. The road is known to have 314 curves, 3 tunnels, 3 pigtails, and much more.

South Dakota’s Needles Highway is perfect for the weekend travelers looking to slow down. Enjoy feeling your European performance vehicle hugging every curve and winding through nature. There’s still more open road to explore – wait until you see where we take you next!

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The area's road network features hundreds of curves, many tunnels and several pigtail bridges.

Iron Mountain Road is known for its wooden spiral-shaped “pigtail” bridge

Iron Mountain Road paves the way to Mt Rushmore

The cathedral spires, one of the most popular attractions in the park,  give Needles Highway its name

South Dakota’s Needles Highway is perfect for weekend travelers looking to slow down.

 

Satisfy the Power Craving Once & For All with Stage 4 DINANtronics

The desire/need for a track inspired monster for everyday street use has never been so real... at Star Class Motors we aim to please... With the upcoming release of the new Dinan Big Turbos for the F3x N20 and N55 engines the stage 4 DINANTRONICS Performance Tuner is now becoming available for applicable models. This stage of tune is specifically designed to optimize the top end power that comes inherently with an upgraded turbo. While in stock, and lightly tuned, configurations the engine tends to fall off rather dramatically after 5000-5500 RPM with the big turbo installed the the cars continue to make additional power all the way to red-line. This results in some very impressive maximum gains of up to 152 HP and 123 lb-ft of torque in certain instances.

There are a variety of different performance data set numbers available depending on application and other factors:

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DINANTRONICS Performance Tuner for the F22 / F23 M235i, F30 / F34 335i (w/ MPPK, Auto Trans.) & F32 / F36 435i (w/ MPPK, Auto Trans.)

BMW Factory Ratings: 320 HP, 330 lb-ft torque (326 HP, 379 lb-ft Measured)

With DINANTRONICS Tuner, Dinan Exhaust, CAI, Dual Intercooler and Big Turbo: 445 HP, 455 lb-ft torque

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992adaf2-7776-4a90-a4a8-d7e0dacee3e3

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DINANTRONICS Performance Tuner for the F30 / F34 335i (w/ MPPK, Manual Trans.) & F32 / F36 435i (w/ MPPK, Manual Trans.)

BMW Factory Ratings: 320 HP, 317 lb-ft torque (327 HP, 353 lb-ft Measured)

With DINANTRONICS Tuner, Dinan Exhaust, CAI, Dual Intercooler and Big Turbo: 446 HP, 436 lb-ft torque

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DINANTRONICS Performance Tuner Description

The DINANTRONICS Performance Tuner is a highly engineered and sophisticated piece of computer hardware and software that enhances engine performance, without negating or voiding your new car warranty coverage and without affecting long term reliability or the functionality of on-board diagnostic systems. It is also the only tuning device emissions legal in all fifty states. The ultimate objective of developing this piece of technology was to provide the ability to control every signal entering and exiting the BMW factory Engine Control Unit. These items are unique to Dinan and together they embody the apex of performance engineering in a powerful, reliable, and warrantied package.

Introducing Our New Storage Service

We'd like all of our loyal customers to know about our newest service – secure, climate-controlled storage. Star Class will wash and vacuum your vehicle before moving it into storage. We will also keep the battery tendered and the tires aired up. Whenever you need your vehicle, simply give us 24 hours notice – we’ll wash and have the car ready for pick up or delivery. All for the cost of only $200 monthly. Space is limited so reserve your space today!

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Screen Shot 2016-02-01 at 2.55.49 PM

Enhance Your Winter Driving Experience and Safety

It’s official – winter’s here in Nebraska.

   

After the recent snow, we can’t deny it. Although snow may look pretty, it’s not the most fun to drive in. Star Class Motors can help to make driving your luxury vehicle in the Omaha area this winter a little safer, and maybe even enjoyable.

     

#1. Invest in Snow Tires NOW!

The biggest recommendation we have for enhancing your winter driving experience is to invest in a set of snow tires. Snow tires, also called winter tires, definitely live up to their name – most snow tires claim to cut the distance it takes to stop in snow down to half the distance. This is because they’ve been specifically designed with a softer compound of rubber making them “stickier,” which is good for grabbing cold surfaces. They also have more traction than all-season tires because they have more tread depth. The best part: there isn’t much of a cost difference; they cost about the same as a quality set of all-season tires and they don’t really affect your luxury vehicle’s MPG either. You don’t want to leave them on all year, though; the rubber is much too soft for warm Nebraska summers. Star Class Motors has a tire rotation program in place where we’ll not only switch out your vehicle’s tires, but offer first-come first-serve storage space for the off-season tires when you’re not using them. Our preferred brands of snow tires are the Bridgestone Blizzak, and the Michelin X-Ice, which are the highest rated on the market.

#2. All Wheel Drive (AWD) and Snow Tires

On another note: let’s talk about All Wheel Drive (AWD). There seems to be a bit of confusion on the best use for it, so let us offer some clarity. AWD can be found in many luxury vehicles and can be a great tool when you’re trying to get going on a slick surface or make it through a few inches of snow. The downfall is that it won’t improve your vehicle’s steering or braking. In fact, it can still take a good distance to stop in slick conditions, especially with all-season tires. That’s why, if you ask any of the Star Class Motor techs, they’ll recommend snow tires over AWD any day! And, having both would be even better.

#3. Check Your Wipers and Washer Fluid

In addition, two of the most important details to have up to par are your wiper blades and washer fluid. If you can’t see or have a way to clear your window, you should not be driving! Too often, these details are overlooked until you’re already on the road. In very cold or inclement weather, you should always check your wipers and washer fluid before you hit the road. Check them while you’re still in the driveway or parking space. Don’t just check to make sure they work, though. You should also look for signs of wear like subtle cracking. This could mean that your wipers are getting dried out and won’t work as well as new ones. If you need to replace your wiper blades, Star Class Motors usually recommends Bosch or Trico, but most brands will get the job done. It’s a small expense to change them out, especially if you do it yourself, but the benefits are worth it. Windshield wiper fluid is also important, but beware–don’t necessarily buy the least expensive one on display. Some washer fluids won’t help in colder temperatures and, if you read the fine print, say “Summer Formula.” Look for one that gives a temperature range; Star Class Motors recommends a 30-degree-below formula. Face it, there are few things worse while driving than getting caught in the rain or snow, or having some other vehicle splash your windshield, and not being able to clear it completely.

#4. Check Your Antifreeze

Antifreeze, also known as coolant, is also crucial. It serves three purposes: helps the water stay in liquid form as opposed to boiling over or freezing, lubricates your water pump, and cools down and dissipates the heat made by the engine (where the term “coolant” comes from). Antifreeze is a mixture of propylene glycol and water, and it must remain within a certain ratio to work well. If there is too much water in the tank compared to the amount of propylene glycol, the tank could freeze in cold weather and cause major problems for your engine. Excess water can occur if you’ve recently had a leak fixed or came from a warmer climate, so, checking this is very important. There’s a special tool most shops have, including Star Class Motors, which can measure the amount of water in the coolant system. Keeping your levels up is another area you can DIY. Most stores will sell either premixed, or, if you’re up to it, full strength antifreeze which you can mix with water yourself. Star Class Motors uses Peak Antifreeze because it mixes well with any other type of antifreeze that might already be in your tank.

#5. Wash Off the Road Grime

Another great service Star Class Motors offers, and most don’t think about when it’s cold, is a thorough car wash, including the underbody. In most of the Midwest, the road crews use salt and other road compounds to keep the roads from becoming slick and helping to melt anything frozen. These are great for the roads but not for your luxury vehicle. If not taken care of, it can cause rust. Star Class Motors recommends a weekly car wash, including the underbody, to help maintain your vehicle’s exterior.

#6. Let the Car Warm Up

The final point we’d like to make is one that always seems to be questioned: Is warming up your vehicle important in the winter? The short answer: YES. Warming up your car not only makes it comfortable for you, but helps your car bring the fluids to top running temps; the oil flows better, fittings and plastics will wear more easily, and your car will drive better overall. Just like an athlete wouldn’t compete without warming up, neither should your luxury vehicle. This is especially crucial for BMWs with a crank shaft – driving without warming up first can cause huge problems otherwise.

Star Class Motors wishes you safe travels this holiday season across Nebraska and the Midwest this winter!

Adding More Power Without the Fear of "Heat Soak"

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With the release of the new Dinan dual core intercooler the stage 3 DINANTRONICS Performance Tuner is now becoming available for applicable models. This stage of tune is specifically designed to optimize the intercooler efficiencies. With its main purpose to extend the increased power band throughout the entire boost rev range, not just the upper RPM spectrum as what naturally happens without the tune and just the intercooler. What this means is that a more linear and extended power delivery can be achieved to go along with the dual core intercooler's inherent temperature and pressure advantages.

We here at Star Class Motors are proud to offer Dinan performance solutions. At Dinan their passion for both BMWs and BMW parts is evident in their dedication to designing and producing the most innovative and performance driven BMW aftermarket parts on the market. Serious enthusiasts turn to Dinan because they appreciate their ability to make BMW performance upgrades that outperform the rest of the BMW aftermarket industry. When customers want performance they turn to Dinan first.

Contact Dane at (402) 932-7827 or by email here for more information or ordering details.

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DINANTRONICS Performance Tuner for the F22 / F23 M235i, F30 / F34 335i (w/ MPPK, Auto Trans.) & F32 / F36 435i (w/ MPPK, Auto Trans.)

(ONLY applicable to cars equipped with an electronic waste gate.)Install Time: 1.5 hrs

BMW Factory Ratings: 320 HP, 330 lb-ft torque (326 HP, 379 lb-ft Measured)

With DINANTRONICS Tuner, Dinan Exhaust, CAI, and Dual Intercooler: 399 HP, 455 lb-ft torque

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DINANTRONICS Performance Tuner for the F30 / F34 335i (w/ MPPK, Manual Trans.) & F32 / F36 435i (w/ MPPK, Manual Trans.)

(ONLY applicable to cars equipped with an electronic wastegate.Install Time: 1.5 hrs

BMW Factory Ratings: 320 HP, 317 lb-ft torque (327 HP, 353 lb-ft Measured)

With DINANTRONICS Tuner, Dinan Exhaust, CAI, and Dual Intercooler: 401 HP, 436 lb-ft torque

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7191a14b-2f78-4668-bd21-074b1a4f1992

DINANTRONICS Performance Tuner Description

The DINANTRONICS Performance Tuner is a highly engineered and sophisticated piece of computer hardware and software that enhances engine performance, without negating or voiding your new car warranty coverage and without affecting long term reliability or the functionality of on-board diagnostic systems. It is also the only tuning device designed to be emissions legal in all fifty states. The ultimate objective of developing this piece of technology was to provide the ability to control every signal entering and exiting the BMW factory Engine Control Unit. These items are unique to Dinan and together they embody the apex of performance engineering in a powerful, reliable, and warrantied package.

Contact Dane at (402) 932-7827 or by email here for more information or ordering details.

F8X M3/M4 Exhaust Comparison - Stock vs. Dinan Free Flow Exhaust

Dinan’s Free Flow exhaust system features 100% stainless steel construction measured to exact specifications to ensure proper fit via factory hangers and mounting points. Dyno tuned for maximum exhaust flow with minimum backpressure, this system is designed to provide a more aggressive sound under acceleration, while reducing drone inside the vehicle, thanks to computer controlled valves that limit noise during low speed driving and open fully during high-load conditions to allow free flow. The exhaust gasses exit through larger laser engraved polished quad tips.

Every Dinan® product comes with industry exclusive factory matching new car bumper to bumper warranty and is designed and tested in Morgan Hill, California and can be purchased and installed at Star Class Motors, an authorized Dinan Performance Center.