Full metal jacket for BMW's speeding bullets

By Alexander Corne

BMW's M series model range has gained an injection of two new models with their international launch late this year.

They are the M Z3 Roadster and M Z3 Coupe.

Both use the acclaimed M3 engine with a 236kW output and 3.2- liter double Vanos high-performance engine.

The M Roadster is, potentially, the most powerful and exhilarating entrant globally based on the stock 2.8-liter Z3 body.

The M Roadster will be blindingly quick, with acceleration to 100km/h accomplished in 5.4 seconds.

BMW says both cars will be far from stripped-down speed machines.

The M Roadster will cosset both driver and passenger with air- conditioning, twin air bags, napa leather interior and rollover protection.

The M Coupe offers the same drivetrain with the added security and safety of a fixed metal roof and further storage space due to its design.

The M Coupe will be the quickest coupe ever released by BMW.

In addition to the luxury features offered on the Roadster, the Coupe will have a glass sunroof, sophisticated stereo system and CD stacker.

The Roadster will be the first to arrive, in September next year, followed by the Coupe.

Not to be outdone, Mercedes-Benz is getting into the coupe act with the SLC, based on the successful SLK Roadster.

Engines are expected to be the same as the SLK, a 2.3-liter Kompressor and 2.0-liter four.

But Mercedes is also toying with a hot 3.2-liter V6 SLK, which would be a direct competitor to the BMW M Z3 twins.

The 3.2-liter SLK gains a more sporty body-kit and wider low- profile tires and alloys. It is likely to be launched early next year.

This engine may also be considered for the SLC.

Although there has been no official acknowledgment that the SLC will make it into right-hand drive production, Daimler-Benz is sure to be watching how successfully the BMW M Coupe and Roadster are received in right-hand drive markets.

Mercedes is believed to be looking at three body styles for the new SLC, including the Sportback and Sportwagon versions.

Early pictures of the Sportback reveal a large, sloping tailgate integrated in the car's rounded rear end.

The Sportwagon has a longer roofline, an upright third door and a roomy cargo area, close in styling to BMW's M coupe.

The SLC is expected to share the SLK's wheelbase, platform, driveline and front end.