I just read Herb's comments so I have to qualify my other post. If BMW did this (probably for the /2 models) then credit is due. However, I think we live in a harsher bottom-line world now and I would be surprised if BMW resolved to continue to support older models based on the behaviour and practises they have shown of late.
Warren Young
Toronto
>
>Vintage BMWs are very popular for restorations/vintage shows/riding/etc.,
>but parts were hard to find and very expensive, so people started
>"re-manufacturing" them. It was quite a big industry until BMW put their
>foot down and stopped it with an army of lawyers. But rather than being
>spoilers, they licensed and contracted a Swiss company to reproduce parts
>(to higher quality standards) to keep the vintage BMWs on the road. They
>realized that old BMWs running down the highway looking like new was
>actually good for their image, and it built brand loyalty.