The new BMW 320Cd Convertible

Contents: 1. The first BMW Convertible with Diesel Power: The 320Cd Convertible. (Short Story) 2. Making its Debut with BMW: A Diesel-Powered 3 Series Convertible. (Long Story) 3. History of the BMW 3 Series Convertible. 4. Specifications. 5. Performance and Torque Diagram.

The first BMW Convertible with Diesel Power: The 320Cd Convertible.
(Short Story)

Economy, driving dynamics, and the wonderful thrill of driving in the open air
- all this is taking on a new dimension in the guise of the BMW 320Cd
Convertible. Indeed, BMW's first-ever diesel-powered convertible is a
particularly good example of how elegance, sportiness and efficiency may be
combined in perfect harmony.

Symbiosis and synergies.
Smooth and quiet, the four-cylinder power unit is a perfect match for the BMW 3
Series Convertible, offering typical BMW fortes such as efficient dynamics and
superior comfort in a most impressive manner: With its two balance shafts, this
modern diesel excels through its supreme refinement, harmonious power, and fast
acceleration from low engine speeds. Representing the latest state-of-the-art
in engine construction, the power unit develops maximum output of 110 kW/150
bhp and maximum torque of 330 Nm/243 lb-ft.

BMW's two-litre diesel has already achieved great success in other models in
the BMW 3 Series, accounting for 80 per cent of all BMW 3 Series sold in some
markets such as France.

The drivetrain as such has been carried over from the 320Cd Coupé and modified
for the BMW 3 Series Convertible. The differences lie in engine management as
well as the drivetrain itself with a 'shorter' final drive and an exhaust
system tailored to the Convertible. The chassis and suspension have also been
converted appropriately.

The sporting cruiser.
The 16-valve power unit develops maximum output of 110 kW/150 bhp at 4,000 rpm,
giving this elegant four-seater a top speed of 211 km/h or 131 mph. Supreme
driving pleasure is also ensured by the harmonious surge of power and the
bullish torque of the direct-injection engine developing 295 Nm or 217 lb-ft at
just 1,500 rpm before reaching its maximum torque of 330 Nm/243 lb-ft at 2,000
rpm.

The enthusiast opting for a sporting style of motoring in this new Convertible
will certainly enjoy life in this car, the 320Cd Convertible reaching 100 km/h
in just 9.7 seconds. And the interim sprint in, say, 4th gear from 80?120 km/h
(50-75 mph) is even more impressive, taking just 7.5 seconds.

Fitted as standard, the six-speed manual gearbox comes with short and sporting
gear ratios for a particularly dynamic or, alternatively, a very relaxed and
laid-back style of motoring in this elegant Convertible. Top speed comes in
sixth gear.

Regardless of whether the driver is driving with the roof down or closed,
diesel combustion noise is reduced to a minimum, thus creating the acoustic
impression of a petrol engine under virtually all driving conditions.

Elegant and economical all in one.
The dynamic performance offered by this high-tech power unit in the open-air
3 Series is only one of the engine's benefits. Because despite this remarkable
performance, the new BMW Convertible is also very economical, consuming just
6.3 litres/100 km of diesel fuel in the composite EU cycle (44.8 mpg Imp) and
thus offering a cruising range on one tank of up to 1,000 kilometres or 620
miles.

Benefitting from modifications within the engine, the 320Cd Convertible
outperforms the EU4 emission standard even without a particle filter.

How about a bit more?
Very well equipped even in standard trim, the 3 Series Convertible can of
course be upgraded to an even higher level by adding a whole range of
attractive options. BMW's new Diesel Convertible also comes in the two
Exclusive and Sports Editions offering the customer an attractive package of
special features in each case. Inter alia, the Edition models feature 17-inch
light-alloy wheels, special metallic paintwork and upholstery, as well as
special add-on features such as chrome trim and interior panels. Further, even
more refined features are then added individually for specific markets. In the
German market, for example, the low-priced Exclusive Edition comes with
Adaptive Headlights, a multifunction steering wheel, xenon lights for the high
and low beam, seat heating, and a rain sensor.

Changing times in the passenger car market.
BMW's 320Cd and 330Cd Coupés have already proven that a modern diesel power
unit can also be successful in vehicle segments previously the stronghold of
the petrol engine: Demand for such dynamic but at the same time very economical
cars has increased significantly in recent years. Particularly in Western
Europe, the share of diesels in the new car market is continuing to grow -
which is precisely why BMW is offering a diesel-powered convertible for the
first time in the history of the Company. The 320Cd Convertible is in fact
intended exclusively for European markets and will be introduced at the
beginning of the new open-air season in spring 2005.

Apart from classic convertible countries such as Germany and Great Britain,
countries with a large share of diesel models such as France, Italy, Belgium,
and Spain will be the main sales markets.