BMW M3 Convertible: V8 Drop Top

Motoring Channel Staff - 18/January/2008

Munich, Germany — Bavarian Motor Works has flipped its lid, presenting not only the first ever V8-powered M3 Convertible, but also a new 7-speed M double-clutch transmission.

Performance enthusiasts will chuffed to hear that BMW has developed the new 7-speed twin clutch automatic transmission for the new M3 models, delivering even faster performance than the 6-speed manual transmission.

According to BMW, the new gearbox takes about two tenths of a second (0.2) off the all-important zero to 100km/h dash, making the new BMW M3 Convertible a 5.1 second speed machine.

As the advanced 7-speed auto gearbox is available on the BMW M3 Coupe as well, it will make the iconic 2-door BMW M3 one of the fastest vehicles in its class, now accelerating to 100km/h in a bone-rattling 4.6 seconds - down from 4.8 seconds with the 6-speed manual.

With the new Convertible, not to mention another new M3 model (a 4-door sedan version), BMW's M3 range is growing and the drop top version will be most exclusive, most expensive model.

Powered by the same 309kW (420hp) 4.0-litre V8 engine as the rest of the M3 range, and now the choice of 6-speed manual or the new 7-speed M double-clutch transmission, the new drop top will combine unparalleled driving dynamics and V8 power with show pony looks.

With improved security and weather protection, the new performance BMW gets a metal folding roof for the first time. BMW claims the car's three-piece lightweight steel roof "opens or retracts in 22 seconds to provide the best of both worlds" with "high standards of torsional stiffness and passenger safety."

As BMW explains, the new M3 Convertible gets a striking front end with its M3-specific aluminium powerdome engine hood and stylishly flared wheel arches, air intake gills in the front side panels, 18–inch wheels and rear airdam with diffuser punctuated by dual M tailpipes. 

It is tailored to "make a clear on-road statement" says the German company.

Another (optional) feature of the V8-powered BMW Convertible is an upgraded, higher quality stereo. If you love top down motoring with your music blasting, then tick the box that says 'BMW Individual' audio system. It gets 16 high-power speakers and a9-channel amplifier.

The new 2008 BMW M3 Convertible shares only its doors, the three-piece steel roof, boot lid, windows and rear lights with lesser 3 Series Convertibles models, adding exclusivity to the design.

Unlike its direct rival, the Audi RS4 Convertible, the new 4-seat BMW has a rear-wheel drive configuration, allowing to perform burnouts and doughnuts where the RS4 cannot.

Other performance aspects of the new BMW M3 Convertible include vented, cross-drilled disc brakes which were "designed to minimise weight while minimising thermal loads under heavy use."

Optioned with the new M double-clutch transmission, the M3 Convertible will go from zero to 100km/h in 5.1 seconds, yet can return a combined cycle fuel consumption figure of 12.3L/100 km.

The 4.0-litre engine is quite a piece of work, with a new low-pressure version of double VANOS camshaft control and motor sports-inspired separate throttle butterflies for each cylinder which provide "instant, smooth throttle response at all speeds" according to BMW.

As well as its freakishly accomplished 8000rpm+ 8-cylinder engine, the M3 Convertible provides serious drivers with a trio of selectable control maps in the optional EDC Electronic Damper Control system. BMW claims that it enables the M3 Convertible "to adapt to a wide variety of driving conditions while still retaining the tenacious road grip, poise and balance that are hallmarks of BMW M cars."

Some of the driving aids (most of which can be turned off) that BMW has built into the car include ABS, ASC, CBC and DSC. It also gets the variable M differential lock which helps facilitate a more progressive power down effect.

Safety systems for the new model include the usual items - dual front and head-thorax side airbags, and a roll bar that stops necks being broken/crushed in the rare event of a rollover when the roof is retracted.

While convertible cars are often emotionally motivated purchases, BMW extols the M3 Convertible's practical virtues: it's got 350 litres of luggage space with the retractable roof up which is enough for a couple of golf bags, or 210 litres when the roof is folded down.

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