Paying tribute to the iconic ZHP Performance Package, BMW has released details for a 2016 BMW 435i ZHP Coupe Edition.

The original ZHP option code was created by BMW Individual as a performance package for the 2003-2006 E46 3 Series that included the M-Tech II body kit, a ZHP shifter knob and shifter, upgraded suspension parts and settings, a different DME and special cam shafts that raised power output to 235 hp and allowed for a higher redline. Fulfilling the desires of true enthusiasts, the package was soon referred to by its internal option package code ‘ZHP’.BMW of North America embraced the thirst for the unique BMW 435i ZHP Coupe Edition once more resulting in the unique collaboration between factory options and key elements from the exciting BMW M Performance Accessory catalogue. Only 100 of these very special cars will be offered.

The new BMW 435i ZHP Coupe Edition is not just a vehicle with improved optics and aerodynamics; it is also notably quicker with more precise handling. These components take the vehicle’s capabilities to levels that those familiar with BMW’s racing heritage can appreciate. The BMW M Performance line of accessories provides a distinctive, sporty character to further enhance driving dynamics and is the result of years of racing expertise and has been developed in close collaboration with BMW M GmbH. Each component goes through an intensive development and manufacturing process resulting in uncompromised performance.

Exclusive chassis, aerodynamic, cockpit and powertrain components are found throughout the BMW 435i ZHP Coupe Edition.

Key characteristics are:
-- Track Handling Package, new for MY16
-- BMW M Performance Limited Slip Differential (LSD)
-- BMW M Performance Parts
-- M Sport Package

Track Handling Package
Designed to increase the dynamic capabilities of the already agile BMW 435i, the Track Handling Package adds 18” Orbit Grey V-Spoke Wheels and M Sport Brakes with 4 piston fixed front and 2 piston fixed rear calipers adding to the vehicles thirst and drivers demand for speed and acceleration. Moreover, this package incorporates the Adaptive M Suspension with variable damper technology as well as Variable Sport Steering.

BMW M Performance Limited Slip Differential
Designed and created for BMW enthusiasts, the mechanical Limited Slip Differential provides the extra performance advantage that true performance drivers desire.

This differential utilizes 3 clutch plates for a total of 30% lockup on acceleration and 9% lockup on deceleration. This lockup provides instant power to the wheel that has the greatest amount of grip to gain better traction out of tight corners. An additional benefit in low-grip situations is that both wheels get equal torque, meaning more forward driving force on roads with reduced traction. The M Performance limited slip differential optimizes the traction, and ensures more controlled and precise driving behavior at the vehicles limits of adhesion. The M Performance LSD is a true advantage while at the track or in sporty driving situations.

The advantage can be felt at the track and in everyday driving. The improved vehicle dynamics are clearly present with the LSD as more torque can be transferred to the road at any given time, allowing for quicker acceleration out of corners.

Traction is improved for any type of road condition.
The LSD integrates seamlessly with the vehicles’ DSC system.

BMW M Performance Engine Kit (+35 hp, up to +32 lb-ft)
The BMW 435i ZHP Edition gets an exhilarating boost in performance thanks to the new M Performance Power Kit enabling an unprecedented level of acceleration and speed. The BMW M Performance Power Kit features engine tuning software and a new M Performance Engine Air Intake system. In addition, a replacement M

Performance Engine Cover and Rocker Panel Decals provide visual distinction this special edition vehicle deserves.
Power and torque figures are now updated as follows:
Horsepower increased to 335hp (35hp gain).
Torque is increased to 332 lb-ft (automatic transmission, 32 ft/lb gain) and 317 lb-ft (manual transmission, 17 ft/lb gain).
Improved acceleration that drivers can feel immediately when compared to a standard 435i:

0.2 seconds faster than the standard 435i model from 0 mph to 60 mph.
0.5 seconds faster than the standard 435i model from 50 mph to 75 mph.
More dynamic accelerator pedal calibration in Comfort, Sport and Sport + Modes, provides an even quicker engine response.
Exhaust “burble” sound during engine overrun conditions. The M Performance Power Kit ensures an optimized engine and exhaust system sound. The exhaust “burble” is enabled in Comfort mode and amplified even further in Sport mode. As a result, the car sound amplifies 'performance'.

Sport Display now shows increased power figures (400 hp and 400 lb-ft) to reflect increased performance.
The M Performance Rocker Panel Decals give the car a sportier look, even from the outside, providing a hint of the car's hidden performance.

BMW M Performance Exhaust
The stainless-steel M performance Exhaust sheds 8.8 pounds of weight while also reducing backpressure for improved dynamic performance, producing a sound that is perfectly balanced for performance and comfort. Two stainless steel tips with a brushed finish connect to a muffler with a straight-through design.

BMW M Performance Aerodynamics Package
The BMW 435i ZHP Edition is also enhanced by the addition of the M Performance Aerodynamics Package. This package underlines the sporting appearance of this special edition vehicle. It comprises of the following components: A front and rear spoiler made from high-quality carbon, as well as a rear diffuser made from PUR-RIM a specially crafted high quality polymer. The dynamic elegance of the M Performance Aerodynamics package amplifies the vehicles exemplary sportiness even further. Above all it offers optimized aerodynamics and accentuates the car's sporty driving behavior.

Made entirely from carbon fiber reinforced plastic (CFRP), the design of the front M Performance Front Carbon Fiber Splitter and rear M Performance Carbon Fiber Spoiler give the BMW 435i ZHP Edition a powerful appearance.

3 embossed bars are integrated into the design of the rear M Performance Diffuser.

The integrated expanded grille in the rear diffuser painted in matte black produces an additional motorsport feel.
M Performance Black Kidney Grilles round off this striking BMW M Performance Aerodynamic Package.

M Sport Package
The BMW 435i ZHP Edition incorporates the M Sport Package comprised of the front and rear Aerodynamic kit, Aluminum Hexagon Trim with a Black high-gloss accent and an M Sport steering wheel.

Only 100 BMW 435i ZHP Editions will be produced making it an exclusive option for customers in search for something truly special. Available with either a Sport Automatic 8 speed or a 6 speed Manual Transmission, the customer can choose to drive either an Alpine White or Black Sapphire Metallic BMW 435i ZHP Edition.

The ZHP will be available through selected BMW M Centers with production starting in July. Pricing on the new BMW 435i ZHP Edition will be announced closer to the on-sale date.

-- Press release courtesy of BMW

"I'm back," Kyle Busch posted this morning (Tuesday, May 12) on Twitter.

And with that, one of NASCAR's few remaining villains has returned, ready to compete in the All-Star race this weekend. 

For racing fans who want to see how the Indy 500 grid shpes up, two days of qualifying action for the “Greatest Spectacle in Racing” will be shown live this weekend on ABC and ESPN3, ESPN’s live, multi-screen sports network, on Saturday and Sunday, May 16-17 from Indianapolis Motor Speedway. Verizon IndyCar Series drivers will be deciding the 33-car starting grid for the May 24 Indianapolis 500, which also will air live on ABC. The schedule:

Saturday, May 16:
11 a.m. -3 p.m.
ESPN3, WatchESPN

4-6 p.m., ABC

Audi today announced pricing for the all-new 2016 Audi TT model line. The iconic vehicle boasts an exciting new design characterized by the use of innovative technologies and driver-focused performance. The TT will be available in dealerships in July 2015.

Dale Earnhardt Sr. would have been 64 years old today.

He's a legend, perhaps the most beloved driver in NASCAR's long history.

Why? Because as tough as he was, he was just likeable. He was charming. Sure he acted like a jerk on track sometimes, but you could forgive him for it because of that charm.

None of today's drivers who have their share of haters -- Kyle Busch, Kurt Busch, Jimmie Johnson, Jeff Gordon, etc. -- can claim the type of charm Earnhardt had. So fans are less forgiving of them.

And none of them can claim his level of competitiveness either.

Earnhardt cared only about winning. If he didn't he wasn't happy. It didn't matter how much money he made or how many titles he won, he wanted to win every week, and would wreck his buddy to do it (ask Terry Labonte if you don't believe me).

Then he'd take you hunting in the offseason (and no, I don't believe Terry every took a shot at him, even after Bristol).

I was lucky enough to catch the end of Dale Sr.'s career -- the magic moments at Atlanta (75th win) and Talladega (76th and final win after an amazing run to the front on the bumper of Kenny Wallace over a stunning final two laps). I saw him win at Daytona after 20 years of trying. I saw his temper, as fiesty as ever, when he flipped off Kurt Busch in the early laps of the 2001 Daytona 500. I saw him race hard each and every week, until the end, and race with pride in his final race as his teammate and friend Michael Waltrip headed toward his first win.

Dale Earnhardt Sr. was who he was -- a great driver, a kind man to the fans (I've heard so many stories of how well he treated the people who rooted him on), and that's part of the reason his son is so popular; they see some of his dad's best traits in him and it lets them carry on rooting for the guy they thought would live forever.

I was at Daytona the day Earnhardt passed in 2001, writing sad words into a computer about how he had left this Earth.

But the reality is that he never really left the sport and his influence still lingers -- both in the safety measures he inspired and the driving styles of some of today's toughest competitors, who are no doubt channeling the Intimidator.

It's been 14 years since Dale left us, and there hasn't been another like him, nor will there be.

Matt Myftiu can be reached on Twitter @MattMyftiu. Follow AutoTechReviews on Twitter at @AutoTechReview.