1998 BMW 3 SERIES: NEW STANDARD SAFETY FEATURES AND APPEALING NEW OPTION PACKAGES; TWO NEW 323 MODELS OFFER MORE AFFORDABLE 6-CYLINDER POWER
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Jun 3, 2004 17:14:39
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Description: BMW's most affordable Series, the 3 Series, has truly become the standard for automobiles that combine performance, handling and quality in a compact, agile package. In once again naming the 328i/M3 models to its Ten Best Cars for 1997, Car and Driver magazine put it this way: "The definitive sports sedans from the company whose very existence has been based on fast four-seaters for more than 30 years simply keep getting better and better." That sums up the 3 Series nicely, but that was 1997. For 1998, "the definitive sports sedans" (along with their Coupe and Convertible stablemates) are getting better again. In brief, the highlights for 1998 are: Two new 6-cylinder models: 323is Coupe and 323i Convertible; the 323is Coupe is BMW's lowest-priced 6-cylinder model in 5 years. Standard front side-impact airbags in all models. Adjustable rear head restraints in all models. New Premium Packages available. Optional Harman Kardon audio system now available on Convertible models as well as Sedans and Coupes. Includes 6-disc CD changer Available retailer-installed Navigation System. THE NEW 323 MODELS: MOST AFFORDABLE BMW 6-CYLINDER POWER IN FIVE YEARS In recent years, BMW's entry level has been represented by several "318" models, each powered by a 1.9-liter (or, prior to 1996, 1.8-liter) 4-cylinder engine. These consisted of the 3-door 318ti, 4-door 318i Sedan, 2-door 318is Coupe and the 318i Convertible. For 1998, the 318ti and 318i Sedan continue with the 4-cylinder engine, which offers lively performance and very appealing fuel economy. The 318is Coupe and 318i Convertible, however, have been replaced by the new 323is Coupe and 323i Convertible, both powered by a new 2.5-liter 6-cylinder engine, which differs from the 2.5-liter engine of the former 325i models. For this new engine offering, BMW engineers retained the 2.5-liter displacement of the earlier version; its 84-mm bore is shared with the 328 models' 2.8-liter engine, but a 75-mm stroke (vs. the 2.8's 84 mm) gives the smaller displacement. Compared to the 4-cylinder engine it replaces, the new 6-cylinder delivers a full 30 more horsepower (168 vs. 138) and a dramatic 48 additional pounds-feet of torque (181 vs. 133), all achieved at lower rpm as well. The result is an engine that's stronger all the way across the speed range, more relaxed in its power delivery, and blessed with the smoothness of a perfectly balanced inline 6-cylinder engine, not a V-6. Like other 3 Series models, the 323s are available with BMW's precise-shifting 5-speed manual transmission or responsive 4-speed automatic, and the "numbers" for both look good. Against already spirited 0-60-mph times of 8.5 seconds for the previous 318is Coupe with manual transmission, and 9.8 sec. with automatic, the new 323is sprints to 60 mph in just 7.1 sec. with manual, 8.2 sec. with automatic. EPA mileage ratings reflect an intelligent compromise at 20 mpg city/30 mpg with manual, 19/27 with automatic. (Please see the accompanying specifications sheets for data on the continuing 318 and the 328 models.) Both 323 models come standard with 15 x 7.0-in. alloy wheels in a sporty Radial design, fitted with 205/60R-15 H-rated all-season tires. Both are also available with a new Sport Package, which includes - 16 x 7.0-in. Cross Spoke wheels, 225/50ZR-16 performance tires Sport suspension (323is Coupe only) Foglights. A new Premium Package is also available for both 323 models, consisting of Remote keyless-entry security system Leather seating upholstery Fold-down front center armrest 2-way power sunroof (323is Coupe) or fully automatic convertible top (323i Convertible). A wide range of stand-alone options is available for both models as well, including a new-for-'98 11-speaker Harman Kardon audio system with 6-disc CD changer for the Convertible. (A Harman Kardon system for the Sedans and 2-door Coupes was already available.) But none of this should obscure the fact that standard equipment is very extensive on these models too. For details, see the accompanying Standard & Optional Features sheets. And yet all this is available for less than $30,000 - the first time since model year 1993 that a 6-cylinder BMW has been available at this price level. The 323is Coupe base-prices at $29,270 including destination charge - up just $1,000 from its 4-cylinder predecessor. The 323i Convertible is priced at $35,270, up just $1,550 from the previous 318i Convertible and including ventilated rear disc brakes vs. the 318i's solid ones. Clearly, value remained uppermost in BMW planners' minds as they conceived these two new models. FRONT SIDE-IMPACT AIRBAGS BECOME AVAILABLE ACROSS THE BOARD In 1997, front side-impact airbags were offered optionally in 3 Series 4-door Sedan models. For 1998, these door-mounted airbags become standard in all 3 Series models, except the 318ti, which gets them as an option beginning with January 1998 production. Another refinement for 1998, relevant to both safety and comfort, is the addition of adjustable head restraints to the rear seats of all models. And BMW's Rollover Protection System, which automatically deploys two structural bars behind the rear seats when its sensing system indicates the possibility of a rollover, is now standard on the 328i Convertible. (It is optional on the 323i Convertible.) REFINEMENTS TO ESTHETICS, LUXURY AND CONVENIENCE Across the Series you'll find thoughtful new refinements affecting the esthetics, luxury and convenience of the nine 3 Series models. New exterior colors were introduced in mid-1997 for ail 318 and 328 models; these carry over into the new 323 models and the '98 318ti. Among them are Ascot Green, Avus Blue, Sierra Red and Cosmos Black; these colors are denoted "metallic" in the BMW tradition. Depending upon model, various attractive options are available, some of them new for 1998. The 318ti's available (and unique) power-operated opening canvas roof, the California Roof, has been enhanced by the addition of an integral wind deflector. Premium Packages are now available for most models, bundling features such as alloy wheels, leather upholstery, power sunroof and remote keyless-entry system into high-value groups whose content varies according to model. Included in the 323i Convertible's Premium Package, and standard on the 328i Convertible, is a fully automatic power softtop whose operation includes latching and unlatching at the windshield header, opening and closing of the rigid top cover, and even lowering the side windows slightly while the raising or lowering of the top proceeds. Thus from beginning to completion, lowering and raising is accomplished purely by pressing the button on the center console. As a refined extra touch, the top (like the windows) can be raised from the outside by holding the door lock in its "lock" position; an all window switch inside lowers or raises all windows at once and provides 1-touch lowering. A new option for both Convertible models is the Harman Kardon audio system, which includes increased audio power, upgraded speakers throughout (including a subwoofer, for a total of 11 speakers vs. the standard 10), a spatial-enhancement circuit, and speed-dependent frequency contouring that adjusts bass output in relation to vehicle speed. A similar system, with 10 speakers, continues as an option for all closed-body 3 Series models except the 318ti. For 1998, a 6-disc CD changer is newly included with this option; pricing for the combination represents substantial value. In midyear 1997, a special 328i Luxury Convertible was introduced. This sybaritically lavish edition of the higher-powered open model continues for 1998, and includes special forged/polished alloy wheels, aerodynamic body components, power sport seats, extensive and upgraded champagne Nappa leather and wood cabin appointments. IN THE ENTIRE 3 SERIES, THE CORE VALUES ARE PRESERVED Once all the talk of new models, new features and extensive customer choices has cleared, it's appropriate to return to the core values of this most popular BMW Series of all time, which continue undiminished into the 1998 model year. What we have here, whether it is the entry-level 3-door 31 8ti or the top of-line M3, is an automobile combining - Relatively compact dimensions Unique, sporty design Rigid, high-quality construction Superb finish, inside and out Long-term durability Sophisticated suspension engineering Standard All Season Traction (all-speed traction control system) Powerful 4-wheel disc brakes A dual-overhead-camshaft, 4-valve-per-cylinder engine (one 4-cylinder and three 6-cylinder engines are offered) A choice of 5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic transmission (M3 Sedan: 5-speed automatic, no automatic available on M3 Coupe) Comprehensive design and equipment for passive safety, including dual front-impact airbags, dual front side-impact airbags ~ and automatic front safety-belt tensioners A wealth of meaningful, rational luxury and convenience features. A small compendium of press quotes on the nine 3 Series models serves to illustrate the character of these remarkable automobiles: 318ti, the most compact 3 Series model: "The 318ti is BMW's least expensive vehicle, but that doesn't mean it is anything other than the genuine article." - Automobile, Buying & Leasing 1997. 318i Sedan, BMW's entry-level 4-door model: "As a pure driver's car, no machine in this mix can touch the 318i. The steering and chassis are simply wonderful." - from a December 1995 Motor Trend comparison text. 323is Coupe, the new entry-level 6-cylinder 2-door model: "The noise, the smooth and seamless surge of revs, the progression of power: they all combine to make [the 323is] a real thoroughbred."- Car, Great Britain, December 1995. 323i Convertible, the new value-leader 6-cylinder Convertible: No quote available yet for this new model. 328i Sedan, 4-door model with larger 2.8-liter 6-cylinder engine and the Series' perennial best-seller: "Top ratings in steering feel, chassis dynamics, and powertrain performance netted the 328i 'best pure driver's car' status." - from a June 1996 Motor Trend comparison test. 328is Coupe, 2-door sports coupe with same engine as 328i: "While it handles better than anything in its class, the 328is is equally able under braking, another BMW strong suit." - AutoWeek, October 7, 1996.
328i convertible, with same 2.8-liter engine as 328i and 328is, fully automatic power top, and newly standard Rollover Protection System: "It's well-balanced, well-mannered and comfortable. Not to mention attractive." - AutoWeek, June 24, 1996. M3 Sedan - 4-door model offering all the performance and handling of the Coupe, plus an extra dash of space and practicality: "Still the best sedan in the world for (barely) less than $40,000." - AutoWeek, March 3,1997. M3 Coupe - 2-door version of BMW M's high-performance 3 Series-based sports car: "Its first-place finish proves that superb handling does not require exotic-car packaging or exotic-car prices...This car lets you seek out its limits quicker and more confidently than any of the other cars here." - Car and Driver, September 1997, naming the M3 Coupe "The Best-Handling Car for More than $30,000." There you have it - the BMW 3 Series, in the words of independent experts and critics. The 3 Series continues for 1998, offering the quality and qualities it always has - just more so. SCHEDULED MAINTENANCE IS INCLUDED IN THE BASE PRICE OF EVERY 1998 BMW In developing today's range of BMW models, BMW endeavored to keep routine maintenance requirements moderate. Instead of fixed service intervals, for example, BMW's built-in Service Interval Indicator tracks actual vehicle use and recommends maintenance (via an instrument-panel display) only when it is actually required. The engines' hydraulic valve lifters and electronic management system require no routine service. And yet this is only half the story: All scheduled maintenance for 3 years or 36,000 miles is included in the base price of every 3 Series model. For owners wishing even more predictability in their service outlays, one can upgrade the prepaid BMW Maintenance Program to cover scheduled maintenance for 4 years/50,000 miles, or full maintenance (including many wear-and-tear items) for 3/36,000 or 4/50,000. (Naturally, some exclusions apply.) And finally, there's the BMW Limited Warranty, which provides 4-year/50,000 mile basic coverage and 6-year corrosion coverage without mileage limit. BMW IN NORTH AMERICA BMW of North America, Inc. was established in 1975, at which point the company assumed marketing and distribution responsibilities of BMW automobiles in the U.S. from the previous private distributor. Motorcycle marketing and distribution was added in 1980. Since then the company's North American operations have grown to include marketing, sales and financial services organizations in the United States and Canada; a South Carolina manufacturing operation; a design firm in California; and various other operations throughout the U.S. and Canada. BMW is represented in North America through a network of more than 375 automobile and 190 motorcycle retailers in the United States and Canada. BMW (US) Holding Corp., the brand's North American headquarters, is located in Woodcliff Lake, New Jersey. Information about BMW products is available to consumers via the World Wide Web on the BMW homepage. The address is:
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