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With
this award, the BMW 3-series has been
selected to our 10 Best list for eight
consecutive years. What makes this so
remarkable is that this string of awards
spans two generations of cars, from the
E36 version, introduced in 1991, to the
brand-new E46 incarnation shown
here.
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This latest 328
incorporates greater interior space and more lavish
appointments, and a fully adjustable steering
wheel. We welcome those improvements, but what's
most important is that this newest 328 retains its
sports-sedan soul.
Critical to this
persona are compact dimensions that encourage the
328's eager and agile abilities. These are enhanced
by a redesigned suspension that  provides
even more precise and immediate moves without
compromising the ride. And for '99, the familiar
2.8-liter six-cylinder engine has been upgraded
with infinitely variable timing on both the intake
and exhaust valves for an even broader spread of
power and torque.
The current M3,
which carries on with the older E36 chassis for
another year or so, remains one of our favorites
because it takes the 328's recipe of practicality
and responsiveness to an even higher level of
performance. Together, these up-level 3-series
models remain the definitive sports
sedans.
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Vehicle
Type:
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front-engine,
rear wheel drive, 5-passenger, 2- or
4-door sedan
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Base
Price:
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$33,970-$40,526
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Engine
Type:
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DOHC
24-valve 2.8- or 3.2-liter
6-in-line
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Power(SAE
net):
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190-240
bhp
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Transmission:
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5-speed
manual, 5-speed auto
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Wheelbase:
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106.3-107.3
in
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Length:
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174.5-176.0
in
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Curb
Weight:
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3150-3250
lb
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EPA
fuel economy, city driving:
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18-20
mpg
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