German auto manufacturer BMW will unveil its most efficient 3 series sedan in Frankfurt while the smallest 328 roadster will be made available to kids only.
320d EfficientDynamics sedan
At LotPro.com we see where BMW is planning on introducing its most efficient 3 Series model at the upcoming Frankfurt Motor Show.
The new 320d EfficientDynamics will certainly be the greenest 3 Series ever, as it has recorded, in official tests, CO2 emissions of just 109g/km and combined European fuel economy figures of 57.4 (US) mpg.
Powered by BMW’s 2-liter (1,995 cc) turbocharged common-rail diesel, the engine features an all-aluminum crankcase and piezo injectors. Developing 163hp (between 3,500rpm to 4,200rpm) and 265.5 lb.-ft. of torque (between 1,750 and 3,000 rpm), zero to 62mph is reached in 8.2 seconds with a top speed of 137 mph.
Deviations from the standard 320d SE include a longer rear axle transmission ratio, lowered suspension and the use of unique aerodynamic alloy wheels (16” versus the standard 17” featured on the SE) fitted with Michelin EnergySaver tires. The existing EfficientDynamics package, as used on other models, also includes Auto Start Stop, Brake Energy Regeneration and Electric Power Steering.No word yet on whether BMW will be bringing the new model over here.
BMW 328 Roadster
The original BMW 328 roadster made its debut at Nürburgring on June 14th of 1936 and was immediately successful. Contributing to the 328’s domination on the track was a combination of superior engine power (80hp in the regular version), cutting-edge suspension technology, and low weight (1,830 lbs.).
While the roadster was initially restricted to motorsports, production of the series model began in 1937. With a top speed of 96 mph, it was, back then, one of the fastest cars on the road and was driven by both works drivers and private citizens. It was, and remains, a very rare BMW with only 464 units assembled before production ceased in 1940.
That is about to change, at least for very small drivers (3 to 5 years old), as BMW has just announced that nearly 70 years after production ceased, the 328 roadster will once again be made available – albeit in a children’s version.
With large round headlights, special wheels with BMW center logo caps, a split windshield and the requisite double kidney grill, the newest 328 will be available with either an electric motor or in even greener form – all pedal power.
Featuring a ‘slip-proof’ steering wheel, rubber tires, and a spare wheel mounted on the trunk lid, the BMW 328 pedal car has been safety certified by the German Technical Inspection Association (TÜV) and will be available through BMW dealers in the U.K. beginning in October of 2009 (no information yet on U.S. availability).
Basic specifications:
BMW 328 Roadster vehicle for children
Weight: 8kg – 17.6 lbs. (pedal version)
12.5 kg – 27.5 lbs. (electric motor)
