The new BMW 130i .... World's lightest six-cylinder petrol engine powers the One

BMW Great Britain is pleased to announce the introduction of the BMW 130i - a
car powered by the world's lightest six-cylinder petrol engine. First seen on
the BMW 630i and the BMW 330i, the new car boasts 258bhp and 300Nm of torque to
deliver class leading performance figures.

The aluminium and magnesium alloy 3.0-litre straight-six petrol engine powers
the BMW 130i from zero to 62mph in 6.2 seconds and on to a top speed of 155mph.
These figures better rivals such as the Alfa Romeo 147 GTA, Audi A3 3.2 V6
Sport Quattro Sportback and the Mercedes C320 SE Sports Coupé. Such high levels
of performance aligned with the near perfect 50:50 weight distribution have
also resulted in the BMW 130i lapping the challenging Northern Loop of the
Nürburgring in an impressive 8 minutes 35 seconds. All this and the car still
posts a respectable fuel consumption figure on the combined cycle of 31.4mpg.

Jim O'Donnell, Managing Director of BMW (GB) Ltd, said: "The 1 Series has
proved a real hit in a market where a rear-wheel-drive car is unique and the
arrival of the 130i promises to shake things up further. Some have already
referred to the model as a baby 'M' car - something that is not surprising
given it can lap the Nürburgring in a time that wouldn't disgrace an M3."

The commendable figures are due in part to the VANOS and VALVETRONIC valve
opening and valve lift control mechanisms that ensure optimum combustion and
engine breathing at all times. An electrically driven water pump also cuts down
on internal engine friction and improves efficiency. Power is transmitted to
the road via a standard six-speed manual gearbox feeding power to the rear
wheels.

Several key styling features mark the BMW 130i out from the
four-cylinder-powered models already on sale. The new car receives chrome
kidney grille slats, features 17-inch alloy wheels and displays large twin
chrome exhaust pipes at the rear. These are more than a styling enhancement
though, as the last section of the exhaust system also plays an important role
in the performance of the car thanks to a valve in the rear section opening and
closing depending on throttle input. At rest and slower speeds the valve is
closed for better emissions, while at higher speeds it is opened fully for
improved engine breathing and a more satisfying aural note.

Standard interior trim for the 130i includes Sports seats, leather steering
wheel, BMW Business radio with single CD player and six airbags. Customers will
also be able to specify BMW's innovative and award-winning Active Steering
system that ensures the optimum steering ratio at any speed.

An unveiling at the Geneva Motor Show in March heralds the first public
appearance of the 130i before it goes on sale in the UK in Autumn 2005. Prices
will be announced at a later date.

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