BMW Roadster gets 3.0-litre power

TWO hundred cubic centimetres might not sound like much, especially when it's an increase of only about seven per cent - but in BMW's case 200cc also represents an increase of 23kW - up from 147 to 170kW - or about 15.6 per cent.

These are the bare numbers reflected by BMW fitting the new 3.0-litre, straight six engine into its Z3 roadster.

The same motors will be fitted to the 330i range of 3 Series sedans, coupes and convertibles due for launch in mid-September.

The new Z3 3.0 replaces the existing Z3 2.8 but gets out of the showroom for the same price - $87,360 for the five-speed manual and $89,960 for the five-speed Steptronic auto.

In addition, the new Z3 gets 17-inch alloys, front and side airbags for both occupants, electrically movable and heated leather seats, air-conditioning, traction control, cruise control and a CD.

The Z3 range now consists of a 2.0-litre, the new 3.0-litre and the mighty M-Roadster, which uses the M3's fearsome 3.2-litre 236 kW engine.

A total of 2121 Z3s have been sold in Australia, making it the most popular European roadster on our roads.