The 330xi makes its world debut at the New York Auto Show
signifying two important milestones. This marks the reintroduction
of an all-wheel-drive sedan to the BMW line-up and the
introduction of the all-new 3.0 liter six cylinder engine first
seen in the X5 3.0i to the 3 Series line. New York will also be
the site of three North American debuts: an all-new M3 coupe; the
Z9 gran turismo concept car; and the 2001 7 Series.
330xi World Debut
BMW's combination of rear-wheel-drive and Dynamic Stability
Control provide an extraordinary level of security in the vast
majority of driving situations. But sometimes an extra degree of
traction is called for. For those times BMW offers the option of
all-wheel-drive on the 3 Series for the first time since 1991.
Using technology borrowed from the X5 SAV the 330xi combines the
traction of all-wheel-drive with the driving spirit of the 3
Series.
Power delivery is split with 38% going to the front wheels and 62%
to the rear. This gives the 330xi handling and responsiveness
which will be very familiar to 3 Series drivers. Traction is
further enhanced with a version of Dynamic Stability Control,
known as DSC-X, developed specifically for all-wheel-drive. If a
wheel begins to lose traction, DSC-X gently applies the brakes to
that wheel which seamlessly diverts power to the wheels with more
traction. BMW is the first and only manufacturer in the segment to
offer the combination of all-wheel-drive and an electronic
stability control program.
With the all-new 3.0 liter in-line six cylinder engine producing
225 hp -- a 17% increase over the 2.8 -- the 330xi's performance
will approach the previous M3. This summer this engine will be
available not only in the 330i and 330xi sedans but also the 330Ci
coupe and convertible as well.
M3 North American Debut
The new M3 blends technological innovation and truly mind-boggling
performance. The all new 3.2 liter engine offers an estimated 330
horsepower and an estimated 255 lb-ft of torque. Mated to a
six-speed manual transmission the M3 will reach 60 mph in about
five seconds. Like that of its M5 stable mate, the new M3 motor
features double VANOS variable valve timing and a drive-by-wire
throttle controlling individual throttle butterflies. M Dynamic
Driving Control offers the choice of a sport mode to increase
throttle response.
Car and Driver magazine named the previous M3 the best handling
car at any price. The new M3 builds on that with vehicle-speed
variable assist steering which connects the driver to a suspension
designed with a wider track and aluminum components. Add to that
aggressive 18 inch wheels and tires, nearly 13 inch brakes and
standard Dynamic Stability Control.
With its M Style front spoiler, flared fenders, M trademark four
chrome exhaust tips and aluminum hood with "power dome",
the performance potential of the new M3 immediately catches the
eye.
Z9 Concept Car North American Debut
The Z9 gran turismo concept car features the long hood and short
rear deck that have become hallmarks of BMW sport coupe design.
Beneath the elegant carbon fiber body panels resides an aluminum
spaceframe chassis offering both extraordinary rigidity and light
weight. Large wheels, 20 inch front and 21 inch rear, provide a
glimpse at the performance of the Z9's 3.9 liter V8 turbodiesel
engine with a stunning 413 lb-ft of torque.
The full-length gull-wing doors, which have conventional
front-opening doors built in, open to a masterfully simple,
uncluttered driving environment. Instead of the usual array of
buttons, switches and levers, the dashboard houses only the
starter button and light switches. A unique control knob (with
corresponding TV monitor) resides in place of the conventional
shift lever operating a number of functions for both the driver
and passenger.
2001 7 Series North American Debut
Having won both the most recent J.D. Power & Associates APEAL
Award and the Polk Owner Loyalty Award for its segment, the 2001 7
Series only builds on this success. A new integrated Motorola
digital StarTAC portable phone with BMW's Mayday function will be
standard in all models. The exterior is set off with body-colored
rocker panels and lower bumper valances, as well as white turn
signal lenses. Based on the popularity of the Sport Package option
on the 740i, Sport Packages will be available for both the 740iL
and 750iL incorporating the 18 inch M-parallel-spoke wheels and
shadowline trim. The 740iL package also includes Electronic
Damping Control which is standard on the 750iL.
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