1999 BMW 7 SERIES:

SUBTLE FRESHENING FOR

BMW's MOST LUXURIOUS SEDANS

Woodcliff Lake, New Jersey, ... In the world of luxury cars, the BMW 7 Series is an absolutely unique quality. The appeal of these magnificent sedans derives not just from their quality and luxury, but also from their performance and sportiness: BMW's long-standing tradition of cultivating The Joy of Driving applies to these large, luxurious automobiles just as it does to more overtly sporty BMWs such as the M3 and M roadster.

For 1999, the 7 Series receives an all-around freshening that strengthens this heritage of "luxury with performance." 7 Series models are powered exclusively by V-8 and V-1 2 engines; both engines are significantly improved.

Other highlights of the 1999 7 Series include a new Sport Package for the 740i; discreet design updates; and various refinements to interior, safety and security equipment.

WHAT'S NEW FOR 1999 - In the BMW tradition, most of the new features and refinements for '99 are functional, with powertrains as the focal point.

The 4.4-liter V-8 engine of the 740i and 7401iL models has received a significant updating. VANOSI steplessly variable valve timing on the intake camshaft is the most dramatic change; but newly configured fuel injectors, long-life (100,000-mile) sparkplugs and extended oil-change intervals are also noteworthy. In sum, the engine updates result in

• Increased torque - up from last year's 310 lb-ft. at 3900 rpm to 324 lb-ft. at 3700 rpm.

• Lower emissions - meeting Low Emission Vehicle (LEV) standards.

• Reduced maintenance requirements - sparkplug replacement now at 100,000 miles on average 2 , oil- and filter-change intervals now 15,000 miles on average.

The 5.4-liter V-1 2 engine of the flagship 75OiL model gets a new emission-control system that also brings it into conformance with LEV standards; this includes three catalytic converters, with:

• HC Adsorber catalyst. Under some operating conditions, hydrocarbon (HC) emissions are adsorbed (not absorbed) in a condensed layer on a charcoal surface. Under other, more favorable operating conditions, these hydrocarbons are then burned.

• Electrically heated catalyst. Attains operating temperature quickly to help reduce emissions after a cold engine start.

• Conventional 3-way catalyst, for general control of HC, CO (carbon monoxide) and NOx (oxides of nitrogen).

At the same time, the V-1 2's power rating has risen from 322 to 326 hp.