I can imagine getting pulled over with the officer telling me that he read on my speedo from his cruiser how fast I was going...no need for the radar!

 

The 1939 Lincoln Zepher had a big center speedo like this. Here's a link to a picture:

http://www.google.com/imgres?imgurl=...Q9QEwAA&dur=77

 

The big Speedo in the middle is there so both left and right hand drive cars can see it.

Mine is used by all the people in the car to see how fast I'm going and tell me to slow down - I wish it wasn't there.

 

My speedo has been off by 4 MPH since I got it. I just got 2 sizes bigger tires and now it's only 2 mph off. I think it's BMW being PC with people speeding and a way to get you thru warranty faster.

But the Center Speedo has never been close.

 

I heartily agree that the R53 had a much cooler and classier version of the center speedo...it's just too big and silly in the newer versions. I'm used to it now, but it does contribute to a slightly toy-like feel of some of the interior. It reminds me of Flavor Flav's giant watch around his neck -- and that's not a good thing.

 

I'm in the camp that says I've been driving long enough to not really use the speedo except when I see a cop :-( and then it too late anyway.

I do like the look of the speedo with the NAV system better than the standard Gen 2 speedo. I also use the digital readout on the tach much more than center speedo and my wife also make good use of the center speedo to remind me that I'm a irresponsible law breaker most of the time I'm on the road :-)

 

And the back seat driver!

 

Rumor has it that the middle speedometer will not be in the 2014 models. BMW plans to offer a spare tire option and use the vacated spot for its storage!