Unveiling a Pristine Automotive Gem: The 81-Mile V8 M3
A Legacy of Excellence: The Esteemed BMW M3 Series and Its Unique V8 Chapter
BMW's M3 lineage is celebrated for its dynamic performance and engineering prowess, with numerous models achieving iconic status. Among them, the E92 generation holds a distinct position, primarily because it was the sole M3 variant equipped with a naturally aspirated V8 engine. As a swansong for this powerplant in the M3 series, BMW introduced the exclusive Lime Rock Park Edition in 2013.
The Exclusive Lime Rock Park Edition: A Tribute to Performance and Rarity
The Lime Rock Park Edition, restricted to a mere 200 units for the North American market, was conceived as an homage to the renowned Lime Rock Park circuit in Connecticut. Each vehicle was presented in a vibrant Fire Orange finish and featured the coveted Competition Package. This limited production, coupled with its performance-enhancing specifications, elevates its appeal to enthusiasts and collectors, a decade after its initial release.
An Unparalleled Find: The Near-Delivery Condition V8 M3 Coupe Surfaces
These specialized M3s already command significant attention within the collector community. Currently, an exceptionally well-maintained example is available for bidding on Cars & Bids, astonishingly displaying a mileage count so minimal it mirrors the condition of a brand-new vehicle upon delivery.
Detailed Examination: The 81-Mile M3's Pristine State and Powerful Core
The particular vehicle featured in the auction is a 2013 BMW M3 Coupe Lime Rock Park Edition, registering a mere 81 miles on its odometer—potentially the lowest mileage existing example. It boasts an immaculate Fire Orange exterior complemented by a black Novillo leather interior, entirely preserving its original factory specifications without any alterations. Propelling this machine is the potent 4.0-liter S65 V8 engine, generating 414 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque. Power is transmitted to the rear wheels via a rapid 7-speed dual-clutch transmission. Factory amenities include the Competition, Cold Weather, and Premium packages, alongside a lightweight carbon fiber roof, an Alcantara flat-bottom steering wheel, and sophisticated carbon leather interior trim.
Provenance and Condition: A Single-Owner Vehicle with Minor Notations
A comprehensive Carfax report confirms the vehicle's clean history, free from accidents or mileage discrepancies, though a reporting gap from 2016 to 2024 is noted. This M3 has had only one previous owner and is currently offered by a dealership in Rockville, Maryland. Service records indicate a battery replacement and a left airbag assembly service in March 2024, with another new battery installed in August 2025. The only identified imperfection is the presence of the original tires, manufactured in 2012.
Seizing the Opportunity: A Rare Collectible in Its Final Auction Hours
The ongoing auction has seen robust bidding, with the current highest bid standing at $86,592 after 13 bids. The auction is slated to conclude imminently, on September 9, 2025. For discerning collectors who prioritize scarcity, authenticity, and condition, this Lime Rock Park Edition represents a prime acquisition. With just 81 miles from new, it offers an almost identical experience to taking delivery of one of BMW's ultimate naturally aspirated M3 coupes. This model uniquely melds motorsport-inspired engineering with everyday practicality, a combination BMW has yet to replicate since its production.
Rimac, a name synonymous with high-performance hypercars, has unveiled a significant shift in its business strategy, positioning itself as a pivotal technology supplier for the electric vehicle sector. At the recent IAA Mobility exhibition, the Croatian company showcased cutting-edge solid-state battery technology and advanced e-axle systems, demonstrating its commitment to pushing the boundaries of electric mobility beyond its exclusive vehicle lineup. These innovations underscore Rimac's ambition to influence the wider automotive landscape, providing crucial components that could redefine future electric vehicle design and performance across various segments.
This strategic evolution from an elite hypercar producer to a leading component provider highlights the company's profound engineering capabilities. The new product offerings, which include production-ready solid-state batteries and incredibly powerful e-axles, are not merely conceptual but represent tangible advancements ready for integration into the next generation of electric vehicles. Rimac's transition showcases its vision of driving industry-wide progress, building on its legacy of creating record-breaking vehicles like the Nevera, which stands as a testament to its innovative spirit and technical excellence.
Pioneering Battery Technology: Solid-State and Beyond
Rimac's collaboration with industry leaders ProLogium and Mitsubishi Chemical has resulted in the development of a solid-state battery system that promises significant improvements over current lithium-ion technology. This new system offers reduced weight, enhanced energy density, and superior safety characteristics, addressing key challenges in electric vehicle development. Unlike many theoretical concepts, Rimac emphasizes that this solid-state battery is ready for production, marking a major milestone in battery technology. Complementing this, the company also presented its Evo Battery, featuring advanced NMC 46XX cells, and a versatile Hybrid Battery platform designed for various hybrid applications, showcasing a comprehensive approach to energy storage solutions.
The readiness of Rimac's solid-state battery system for commercial production is a game-changer for the electric vehicle industry. Its lighter weight and higher energy density mean longer ranges and improved vehicle dynamics, while enhanced safety features offer greater peace of mind. This technology, developed in partnership with established players, solidifies Rimac's position as an innovator, moving beyond its hypercar roots to become a critical supplier of advanced components. By offering multiple battery solutions, including the NMC 46XX cell-based Evo Battery and the flexible Hybrid Battery, Rimac is catering to a broad spectrum of electric and hybrid vehicle needs, illustrating its commitment to practical, scalable solutions for the future of transportation.
Redefining Electric Power: Advanced E-Axles
Rimac's innovations extend to the powertrain with the introduction of its new SINTEG 300 and 550 e-axles. These compact yet powerful units deliver up to 360 kW and boast a torque density exceeding 90 Nm/kg, making them versatile enough for applications ranging from compact hatchbacks to larger SUVs. The highlight, however, is the XXL dual-motor e-axle, projected to enter series production in 2026, which promises an astonishing 11,000 Nm of torque. This level of power output is indicative of the technology that underpins high-performance electric vehicles, including Rimac's own Nevera hypercar, attracting considerable attention from collectors and the automotive industry alike.
The new SINTEG 300 and 550 e-axles are designed to be both compact and highly efficient, offering significant power output relative to their size. Their high torque density of over 90 Nm/kg makes them suitable for a diverse range of vehicles, from everyday cars to more robust utility vehicles. The forthcoming XXL dual-motor e-axle, with its projected 11,000 Nm of torque, represents a pinnacle of electric drivetrain engineering, pushing the boundaries of what is achievable in terms of electric power and performance. This technological leap reinforces Rimac's expertise in developing components that enable extreme performance, and its ability to attract significant interest from both the automotive manufacturing sector and the high-end collector market.
Cadillac's CT5-V Blackwing, a beacon of automotive excellence, combines raw power with sophisticated design, making it a highly coveted vehicle. This September, the opportunity to experience this high-performance sedan has become more attainable through an enticing lease offer. With its formidable supercharged V8 engine and the rare inclusion of a manual transmission option, the Blackwing offers an unparalleled driving sensation that appeals to enthusiasts and luxury seekers alike.
The current lease promotion for the 2025 Cadillac CT5-V Blackwing features a monthly payment of $1,647 for a 48-month term, predicated on a down payment of $3,500 and an annual mileage allowance of 10,000 miles. Although some 2025 models may still be available with a slightly different monthly payment of $1,666 under similar terms, the emphasis is on making this elite sedan more accessible. It's important for interested parties to note that these figures exclude taxes and other potential fees, and regional variations may apply. Cadillac encourages prospective customers to verify offers by entering their zip code on the official website to receive the most precise payment estimations.
The CT5-V Blackwing, introduced in the 2022 model year as the successor to the esteemed Cadillac CTS-V, stands out with its supercharged 6.2-liter V8 engine, delivering an impressive 668 horsepower and 659 pound-feet of torque to the rear wheels. Drivers can choose between a six-speed manual or a 10-speed automatic transmission. This powerhouse can accelerate from zero to 60 mph in a mere 3.4 seconds with the automatic transmission, or 3.6 seconds with the manual. For the 2025 model year, the Blackwing received aesthetic enhancements, including a refreshed front fascia and a state-of-the-art 33-inch LED touchscreen display in the interior. The 2026 model further refines its offerings with a new Parking Package and the integration of blind-spot steering assist as a standard safety feature, alongside exclusive customized versions under the 'Curated by Cadillac' program.
Owning a vehicle of the Blackwing's caliber represents a significant investment, yet its distinctive blend of American muscle and refined handling offers exceptional value. It stands as one of the last remaining new cars to offer a manual transmission, a feature increasingly rare in today's market. This combination of robust power, sophisticated handling, and engagement through a manual gearbox makes the CT5-V Blackwing a unique proposition, embodying a legacy of automotive passion and precision that transcends mere transportation to become a profound driving experience.