BMW Announces Prices for New M Models; M Roadster and M3 Convertible to Debut in Spring
29 December 1997
BMW Announces Prices for New M Models; M Roadster and M3 Convertible to Debut in SpringLOS ANGELES, Dec. 29 -- BMW of North America president Victor H. Doolan announced today at the Greater Los Angeles Auto Show the pricing for two new M models that will arrive in showrooms next spring. The M roadster will have a base MSRP of $42,200 and the M3 convertible will be priced at $45,900. The M roadster, based on BMW's popular Z3 two-seat sports car, will get all around high-performance upgrades in the fashion established by BMW M, the subsidiary of BMW responsible for the development of all M cars and individual models. These include installing the 240-horsepower, 3.2-liter inline six- cylinder engine of the M3, with corresponding upgrades to the suspension, brakes and wheels/tires to support the increase in engine performance. This pure sports car will only be available with a 5-speed manual transmission. The M3 convertible will join the family of M3 models which already includes the M3 coupe and sedan. This four-seat, open-air model will incorporate all the M3 performance equipment as well as features such as a fully-automatic convertible top and BMW's Rollover Protection System. The M3 convertible will be available with a choice of transmissions -- 5-speed manual or 5-speed automatic. Both models come standard with BMW's Coded Driveaway Protection System to help prevent thefts by automatically disabling the engine management system each time the key is removed from the ignition. Like every 1998 BMW model, the cost of scheduled maintenance for 3 years or 36,000 miles (whichever comes first) is included in the purchase price of the M roadster and M3 convertible. Commenting on the pricing announcement, Mr. Doolan added, "Our M models have always been considered among the most exciting cars to drive. At these prices, they can also be considered among the best values in this segment as well." 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: http://www.bmwusa.com. SOURCE BMW of North America, Inc.