BMW may not be the best car company on the planet, but it's hard to think of onethat's turning out a more consistent string of winners.
The new 328i, senior member of the 3-Series line, is a good example of how BMW works
its magic: Brilliant vehicle concept, outstanding design, superb engineering and
excellent assembly, backed by continuous improvement between major makeovers.
That's what the '96 328i represents. Although it's a modest update on its predecessor,
the 325i, modest doesn't mean that updates aren't substantial. BMW doesn't do things
just for show.
We had a chance to drive the 328i sedan and 328is coupe in the wide open spaces of
Nevada and California, a trek that wound its way from Death Valley--at 282 ft. below
sea level, the lowest point in the country--to the Mammoth Mountain ski area, some 8000
ft. up in the Sierra Nevada Mountain range.
Throughout these travels, which included high speed and high altitude, the 328s
performed flawlessly.