re: M323ti seen in Argentina

[Ron Katona <ron3b@xxxxxxxx>]

Mike Fox wrote:
> I just returned from a business trip to Buenos Aires and while there I saw a
> bright red BMW with M323ti badges. It had what looked like a full M kit,
> spoilers, rub strips, etc and dual exhaust. Looked like a tricked out 318ti.
> Does anyone know anything about these cars? Is this a real production
> vehicle,
> or did someone build it themselves? It looked like a real fun little car.

It's a factory car - except for the ///M in front of the 323ti badge.

This is the top-of-the-line "Compact" as sold on the European Continent
and in a few other markets. It's the 323ti - same engine as the current
E36/46 323 or Z3 2.3 (2.5). An Argentine member of the 318ti list
confirmed the 323ti is available there. Australia, NA, GB and others
don't receive it for some ungodly reason. If there was an ///M in front
of the 323ti badge, it was put there by the owner.

The M-Technik body parts are standard factory fare on the 323ti. Also
standard on all Sport package 318tis in all markets (since 1996), or as
the limited edition 318ti Club Sport in 1995 (included M mirrors also).
It's not an M car (the engines are not specially tuned), but has
M-Technik suspension bits and body parts.

Yes, it's got to be a fun car to drive. I think they go about 2850 lb
(100 lb more than the 318ti) with 168 hp. 0-60 in the low 7's - similar
to a E36 325 or auto 328 with the 318ti's crisp handling. 143 mph top
speed ungoverned. Why we never got this car in the US I'll never
understand.

The next version of the Compact for the NA market will have this engine
as standard in a new (sort of E46 with chopped rear end looking) body
style.

Also... if you're thinking about the M Coupe, consider that the M
Compact is being strongly rumored. This should have the E46 front
suspension, and probably the E36 rear suspension - not the current
318ti/Z3/E30 semi-trailing arms. If the motor is the same "world car"
next generation 320-340 hp M3 motor, look out. Should blow an M Coupe
into the weeds and will carry 4-5 adults. Should be priced less than the
E46 M3 as well - I won't guess how much. Another total guess is that
they might put the current US M3 motor in it so as not to cut into M3
sales. That would still be a great car. And of course, BMW NA could kill
all of this... I hope not.
- -- 
Ron Katona

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