BMW continues reaping successes: the new M3 was awarded "Interamerican Car of the year 2001"

BMW keeps receiving praise and awards from the press worldwide: the
Interamerican Association of Automotive Journalists (FIPA or
Federación Interamericana de Periodistas del Automóvil )
- an organization which groups specialized media from 13 American
countries - awarded the new M3 as the Best Interamerican Car of the
year 2001. The trade press of the US, Mexico, Guatemala, El Salvador,
Costa Rica, Panama, Dominican Republic, Venezuela, Colombia, Peru,
Ecuador, Paraguay and Chile - representing a market of around
20,000,000 units for the region - determined that this 3 Series
thoroughbred sports car is the model which encompasses the best
qualities among the 10 vehicles that made it to the finals and the more
than 70 original contestants. According to the voting system, each FIPA
member country is entitled to award an equal number of points on the
score, and parameters such as design, application of new technologies,
safety, dynamic response, performance among others were evaluated. The
new M3 achieved the highest number of votes through its
well-acknowledged capacities, leaving prestigious competitors behind
With the M3, the German manufacturer offers the ultimate excitement: a 6
cylinder engine with high pressure double Vanos technology for intake
and exhaust, digitally regulated throttle valve opening and a special
development of the engine's electronic management system which allows
it to achieve a 343 CV output and a 37.2 kgm torque. These figures
result in exceptional features: 0 to 100 km/h acceleration in just 5.2
seconds and 24.2 seconds to reach 1,000 meters from standing-start.
Maximum speed is limited by the manufacturer to 250 km/h. Refinement
is also reflected in its specially developed 6-speed gear-box, dynamic
stability control system (DSC III) - which includes anti-slipping and
drive control features -, CBC control system which regulates braking at
curves, plus an array of exquisite details, such as park distance
control (PDC) warning or the tire pressure checking system (RWD). M3
interiors bear the distinct M stamp synonymous with sobriety and
subdued luxury. The recognition to the new M3 by the specialized
automotive press is no more than the natural outcome of a philosophy
applied by BMW throughout its history to every model, offering the
highest quality standards within the bounds of perfect safety,
ceaselessly seeking top performance rates. This very same philosophy
has laid the foundations for a road paved with recognition and
successes among the media and public alike all over the world.