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New launch date for Z3
BMW has brought forward the launch of the revised Z3 roadster from mid July to 10 June. Almost 2500 Z3 roadsters have been sold between January and the end of May making it the third best-seller in an increasingly competitive market. It is unclear exactly why BMW should want to replace a successful model, but we expect that there is quite a strong demand for the facelifted model.
Revisions to the Z3 range include a number of external and interior changes as well as a new engine line-up, offering a choice of four models instead of three in the superseded range.
A 2.0-litre, 150 bhp straight-six engine will replace the four cylinder 1.9-litre model and a new sub-�20,000 entry-level 1.8 model will be added, which will share an engine with the 318i saloon. The 193 bhp six cylinder engine in the revised 2.8 model features double VANOS variable valve timing.
Bodywork changes at the rear of the car have been designed to give a broader, more purposeful look. The rear wings are now more curved and flared with a revised rear light cluster, while the 2.0 and 2.8 models will feature new alloy wheels as standard. At the front there are chrome accent lines around each of the four headlamps.
On the inside, there will be a new centre console, switchgear from the M roadster and a choice of new colours and upholstery. The soft top gets a new headlining too.
Prices will start at �19,995 for the Z3 1.8. The new six cylinder 2.0 is priced at �22,995 and is expected to be the best-seller in the new range, while the 2.8 price has increased by just �230 to �28,350. The M roadster continues unchanged.
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Polo - the car with the hole
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Volkswagen has increased the standard specification of 38 different Polo models in preparation for the summer market. Polo L and CL hatchbacks, saloons and estates gain a sunroof at no extra charge, GL and 16V hatchbacks now come with manual air conditioning in lieu of the standard sunroof at no extra charge, and a limited number of Polo
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hatchbacks with the full-length "Open Air" sunroof are available at a saving of �415. The offers apply to cars produced before the end of August 1999. Only 500 cars will be available at the reduced rate with the "Open Air" sunroof.
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Bertone built Vauxhall/Opel Astra Coupe on sale next year
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Vauxhall have been without a decent mid-size coupe now for quite a while. The Calibra, based on the last Cavalier was a best seller and is still loved in the second-hand market. Now, that void is to be filled - by the Astra Coupe shown here. A little disappointed? We were too when we saw the car for the first time at the London Motor Show last year. In our view, this is just too alike the regular Astra models.
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That is a pity as the dynamics will certainly be competitive. Three engines have been announced - two 16 valve four cylinder units; entry-level 115bhp, mid-range 145bhp, and a 2.0-litre turbo unit, pumping out 190bhp. Now that's more like it! The latter powerplant pushes the coupe to a very respectable top speed of 149mph - a low drag coefficient of only 0.28 makes this possible.
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Bertone will build the new Opel / Vauxhall model near Turin in Italy (hence the Bertone badge on the car's flanks). Production targets exceed 30,000 cars a year. We will reserve judgement until we drive the car next year....
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Volvo C70 range expansion
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A new entry-level model has been released in the UK joining the existing C70 range. This, coupled with the recent launch of the C70 convertible ensures that Volvo are covering as much of the luxury sports car market as possible. Their new owners, Ford, will surely have to think about the competitiveness between Volvo and Jaguar. Read more here....
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News compiled by S.O'
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