New BMW M3 Speedster Aimed at Lexus SC300 And Nissan 300ZX

06/24/96

The all new BMW hot rod doesn't have any radical styling innovations, but--true to German car engineering-- offers important technology advancements, like its new, 3.2 liter engine with 5% higher torque that outputs 240HP. The car also carries:

	  Chain camshaft drive that requires no periodic maintenance.
	  Variable valve timing.
	  Hydraulic valve lifters
	  Variable RPM limiting that allows the motor to reach 6800rpm in
               first and second gears, but holds it to 6500 in the other
               speeds.
	  Thermoplastic intake manifold saves weight and helps airflow.

In the Chassis we find:

	  Optimized suspension with refined springs and shocks
	  Quicker steering ratio.
	  New wheel and tire sizes to 17" X 8.5.
	  All season traction control

Notable in the creature comfort area:

	  New Harmon Kardon super-premium sound system with a 14mm soft
               dome tweeter, 65mm midrange speaker in each door, 140-mm
               woofer with dual voice coils for hands-free phone use.
	  The M3 has a central locking system, cruise control, 8-way
               power seats and a BMW roadside assistance program.

Bill Maloney -- The Auto Channel