---

Dura Automotive Systems, Inc. to Acquire Hinge Business

1 September 1998

Dura Automotive Systems, Inc. to Acquire Hinge Business from Tower Automotive, Inc.

    MINNEAPOLIS, Sept. 1 -- Dura Automotive Systems, Inc.
("Dura") , and Tower Automotive, Inc. ("Tower Automotive")
announced today that they have signed a definitive purchase
agreement whereby Dura will acquire the Hinge Business of Tower Automotive
("Hinge Business").  The Hinge Business operates from two facilities in the
Detroit area and has annual revenues of approximately $50 million.  Customers
include Ford, Chrysler and Auto Alliance.
    Karl F. Storrie, chief executive officer of Dura, said, "The Hinge
Business is an excellent complement to our existing product line and
represents another important element in our strategy to expand our offerings
of engineered automotive components.  We expect the acquisition to be
accretive to our earnings immediately."
    Dugald K. Campbell, chief executive officer of Tower Automotive, said,
"This transaction is an important element in Tower Automotive's strategy as we
continue to focus on body structures and suspension systems.  It was also
important for us to find an owner of the Hinge Business who will continue to
invest in and grow the operation."  Tower Automotive will use the proceeds
from the sale to reduce outstanding indebtedness.
    Dura Automotive Systems, Inc., is a leading designer and manufacturer of
driver control systems, engineered mechanisms and cable-related systems for
the global automotive industry.  The company's products include parking brake
systems, automotive cables, transmission shifter systems, latches, underbody
tire carriers, jacks, brake, clutch and accelerator pedals and other
mechanical assemblies.  The company's products are sold to major North
American original equipment manufacturers (OEMs), including Ford, General
Motors and Chrysler, as well as Japanese OEMs, including Toyota and Honda.
The company's European and Latin American facilities support Ford, GM,
Volkswagen, Mercedes, BMW, PSA (Peugeot and Citroen) and various other OEMs.
Dura's operating headquarters is in Rochester Hills, Mich.
    Tower Automotive, Inc., produces a broad range of assemblies and modules
for vehicle body structures and suspension systems for the automotive
manufacturers, including Ford, Chrysler, General Motors, Honda, Toyota,
Nissan, Auto Alliance, Fiat, BMW, Volkswagen and Mercedes.  Products include
body structural assemblies such as pillars and package trays, control arms,
suspension links, engine cradles and full frame assemblies.  The company has
its operating headquarters in Grand Rapids, Mich.