O LYMPIC Motors, Cambodia's BMW dealership, is to launch the new Series 7 in

October.

Sim Ping Sai, director of Olympic Motors, said the most popular

model in Cambodia was the Series 3, but the top-of-the-line Series 7 - ranging

from the $90,000 730i to the $130,000, 12-cylinder 750i (plus 50 percent tax) -

would rival the smaller car in popularity.

BMW Series 7 is the most

popular for its comfortable ride and elegant design. It has been chosen by

Asia's high achievers as the new symbol of success with its classic design,

luxurious interior and state-of-the-art technology, according to sales

blurbs.

Ping Sai said customers would have a one-year guarantee with full

parts and services back up.

He said: "We have had a successful launch of

the Series 3 in the past year. We believe the Series 7 will make our performance

this year even to be better."

He said since the opening of the office one

and half years ago, the company has sold about 100 cars.

Most of the

buyers were local and foreign businessmen, he said.

Ping Sai said with

the expected increase of sales, the company is looking to expand its parts and

services department to cater the customers' needs.

Mercedes are also very

popular in Cambodia. The 1994-1995 new brand series cost about $70,000 or more

according to a representative of Hung Hiep dealership.

He said the

company sold four to six cars each month to buyers who are mostly diplomats,

foreigners and locals.

Toyota Land cruisers 1995-1996 series cost about

$90,000 and used models cost from $30,000 to $50,000. Most of the buyers were

government officials, according to a Chimex company representative.