BMW SA has introduced a 3 Series 50 Jahre Edition in 320i and M340i xDrive models.
The 3 Series, which replaced the BMW 02 in 1975 and is now in its seventh generation, is the brand’s most successful model range with over 20-million units sold.
Based on the latest BMW 3 Series, the special 320i and M340i xDrive models are inspired by iconic BMW 3 Series from the past and 50 units are being released to celebrate the half-century milestone.
Signature paint finishes of bygone BMW 3 Series have been revived to give these models their most distinctive feature. They are available in Aegean Blue and British Racing Green paint finishes from the third generation, Stratus Grey from the fourth generation, and the sixth generation’s Lime Rock Grey.
The cabin of the 50 Jahre Edition cars has unique features too. The British Racing Green 320i receives a striking perforated Sensatec finish in Cognac, with all M340i xDrive cabins decorated in black Vernasca leather with blue contrast stitching. Alongside the standard M Sport package with black high-gloss accents, all models get aluminium interior trim and the CraftedClarity cut glass element for the gear selector.
A selection of alternative 19-inch wheels is available, too. Other standard features incorporated into the BMW 50 Jahre Edition for SA include Comfort Access, Park Assist Plus, Adaptive M suspension, Driving Assist Professional and Harmon/Kardon surround sound.
The 3 Series has a strong SA connection, with the second to sixth generations produced at BMW’s Rosslyn plant near Pretoria, which led to the development of special SA-only versions such as the 333i. The BMW 3 Series was also the model first exported from SA in 1994.
The 50 Jahre Edition cars are mechanically unchanged. The rear-wheel drive 320i is powered by a 2.0l four-cylinder petrol turbo engine with outputs of 135kW and 300Nm, and the all-wheel drive M340i has a 3.0l six-cylinder petrol turbo boasting 285kW and 500Nm. Both are eight-speed automatics.
Prices:
BMW 320i 50 Jahre Edition – R1,067,730
BMW M340i xDrive 50 Jahre Edition – R1,422,607
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