---

Sonic Takes A Shine to Sunoco

26 May 1999

Sonic Automotive, Inc. Announces National Oil Vendor

    CHARLOTTE, N.C., May 26 -- Sonic Automotive, Inc.
announced today the selection of Sunoco, Inc. (Sunoco and Kendall brands) as
its national vendor for oil and lubricant products.  Sonic is continuing its
efforts to consolidate purchases and realize economies of scale from
consolidation in automotive retailing.
    "In addition to competitive pricing, Sunoco and Kendall brands have an
excellent distribution system in all of Sonic's markets.  Sunoco, Inc. will
provide Sonic with a quality product and efficient distribution to our
dealerships.  Our relationship with Sunoco, Inc. is another example of how
Sonic can realize economies of scale while providing quality products and
services to our customers," stated B. Scott Smith, the Company's President and
Chief Operating Officer.
    Sonic Automotive, Inc. is one of the leading automotive retailers in the
United States, with operations in Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Maryland, North
Carolina, Ohio, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, and Virginia.  Upon
completion of pending acquisitions, Sonic will operate 111 franchises and 28
collision repair centers.
    Included herein are forward-looking statements, including statements with
respect to anticipated revenue growth.  There are many factors which affect
management's views about future events and trends of the Company's business.
These factors involve risk and uncertainties that could cause actual results
or trends to differ materially from management's view, including without
limitation economic conditions, risks associated with acquisitions and the
risk factors set forth from time to time in the Company's filings with the
Securities and Exchange Commission.