HERE IT IS, the coming, new BMW Z3. These are the first computer images of the car without any disguise. The car is a little bigger than its predecessor, but first of all we notice the far more importunate design. Very good looking front and from the rear we notice quite very designed, but not controversial rear lights and details from the Zender Straight 8 - the concept car based on the very same car. (Zender Straight 8 was the News of the Day here on the site October 29.

We know the new Z3 is ready to launch 2002 and until now we have seen it with our spy lenses various places around the world, including handling testing at der Nordschleife, Nürburgring, Germany.

We even have news on the secret BMW Z5.

BMW Z5 (as seen in a German motoring magazine): To our knowledge the car is actually existing, but no decision has been made whether or not to build the car.

It's actually quite unlikely as it would be a direct in-house rival against the up coming 6-series (which looks quite different). What sense would make yet another sports-coupe in the same size? We believe BMW has pulled out an old design-concept to secretly test components of the new 6-series underneath.

FACTS

· 2002 BMW Z3
· First computer images without any disguise
· Entry level engine: 4-cyl. inline, 140 bhp
· Tested around the world
· Handling test at Nürburgring
· Z5 facts (or rumours)
· Test car is existing
· No decision to build it or not

Images
1) 2002 BMW Z3 computer images without any disguise from in front. 2) And from the rear – notice rear lights and exhaust pipes. 3 + 4 + 5) Z3 test car from in front. 6) From behind. 7) Z3 high speed testing at Nürburgring.

Photo: AutoMedia