BMW Z3 roadster 2.8

Whitby, Ontario, January 8th, 1997...BMW Canada Inc. announced today that the
second model in its successful Z3 two seat roadster line -- the six cylinder Z3
2.8 -- will sell for $49,900 in Canada. The announcement was made on the
occasion of the opening of the Montreal International Autoshow today. Using the
refined powerplant from BMW's 3 and 5 Series models combined with several
chassis improvements, the new Z3 2.8 takes the performance of this open-air
sports car to new levels.

The engine construction of the 2.8 litre power unit installed in the Z3 differs
from that in the 3 and 5 Series models in that it is constructed of lightweight
aluminum with steel cylinder liners. The first such application in a BMW six
cylinder engine in the Canadian market.

The running gear of the Z3 2.8 has been upgraded to match the performance of
the engine. The rear axle has been modified with a track increased by 48 mm.
Taking a cue from the legendary M3, a limited slip differential with 25 percent
locking action is included with the standard Automatic Stability Control +
Traction (ASC+T) endowing the Z3 2.8 with safe and sporty control of the
increased horsepower. The front disc brakes are vented to maintain the BMW's
typical braking performance with the increased engine output.

The Z3 2.8 roadster can be distinguished from the Z3 1.9 by a number of
exterior differences. The front spoiler is deeper and re-shaped with a larger
air inlet to increase the flow of cooling air. The rear fenders are flared out
more muscularly than those of the four cylinder car and the 16 inch road wheels
are of an aggressive round spoke design.

The level of standard equipment is also appropriately elevated in this new
model. Air-conditioning, cruise control, on-board computer as well as the
previously mentioned traction control system are all standard. The individual
seats are upholstered in leather as are the door panel inserts. An extended
leather option is available which also includes leather on the sides of the
centre console, the door handles, the door capping, the steering wheel rim, the
handbrake boot and the instrument/passenger side pods. The Z3 2.8 is also set
apart by its standard wood trim on the centre console and a wood/leather gear
shift knob.

"The original Z3 brought roadster fever to Canada, the Z3 2.8 raises the
temperature to a boil! People do incredible things just to get a better look at
the Z3!" stated Mr. Robinson, President and CEO of BMW Canada Inc. "For the
driver, the Z3 1.9 represents the quintessence of the roadster experience as
well as a great value. The Z3 2.8 further develops the experience by adding
class leading the performance and even more aggressive good looks."

Both Z3 models are manufactured exclusively at BMW's plant in Spartanburg,
South Carolina and distributed to over 70 markets worldwide. The Z3 roadster
2.8 will be available at dealers across Canada this month.