American Woman Motorscene

The '96 Z3 is powered by a 1.9-leter double overhead cam version of BMW's four cylinder 138-horsepower engine. It offers more power and more dependability than before. The Z3's five-speed manual transmission would be my choice for driving fun, but if you live in a big city and comute, the four-speed automatic is awfully tempting.

Beneath the Z3's shapely body is an advanced, fully independent suspension, including four-wheel disc brakes with standard ABS and a strong all-steel unibody structure that meets 1997 side impact standards. Combining that high-performance suspension and 16-inch wheelswith the car's wide stance make the Z3 corner like a race car, but without sacrificing ride quality.

Inside, the Z3 offers a unique cockpit, with dual airbags and optional leather seats. Instruments are typical BMW-style analog gauges: big and easy to read. Power windows, power driver's seat, cruise control and Alpine stereo areall standard, plus the car is prewired for CDchanger, cell phone and keyless-entry security system. A painted, removable hard-top will be available next year.

By keeping this car simple, keeping the price down to a reasonable $28,750 and emphasizing fun rather than roaring horsepower, BMW has a sure winner in the Z3.

After being involved with handsom spys, exotic locales and save-the-world missions, a Z3 would be perfectly content to relax in your driveway.