2008 New York Auto Show: 2009 BMW M3 Convertible

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What it Is

2009 BMW M3 Convertible Preview - 2008 New York Auto Show: The M3 has evolved over time from a racer into a full-fledged lineup unto itself. The newest M3 has already debuted in coupe and sedan form, and both are bona fide winners. In Geneva, BMW completed its lineup with the introduction of the drop-top version, and it now unveils the car for the U.S. market in New York.

Why it Matters

BMW has long been synonymous with their "Ultimate Driving Machine" slogan and, to a large degree, the connection is deserved. But the competition is coming on strong, with and exceptional Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG zeroing in on the 3 Series' mark of perceived infallibility. Lexus is even offering up a serious player in its IS-F. The M3 responds to these challenges, and now does so with an open-air model.

What's Under the Hood

Like the coupe and sedans, the M3 convertible comes with a 4.0-liter V-8 pushing 414 horses at a lofty 8,300 rpm, and 295 lb.-ft. of torque at 3,900 rpm. The new uber-Bimmer also boasts a six-speed manual tranny with a locking differential, an aluminum chassis, electronic damper control, cross-drilled cast iron rotors, and Servotronic steering with Normal and Sport modes.

What it Looks Like

Like models before it, the 2008 M3 appears as a regular 3 Series convertible that's been to the gym - not like a dude on 'roids but rather someone who's been doing twice-a-days and eating nothing but chicken and tuna. In other words, lean and mean. The package includes a revised front and rear fascias, a rippled aluminum hood with vents, additional vents on the fenders, quad chrome exhaust tips, and lightweight M-specific alloy wheels measuring 18 inches.

What's Inside

Like its hard-topped brothers, the convertible has a sumptuous interior, with leather trim, door sills with the M logo, audio components such as Sirius and HD radio, a thick leather-wrapped steering wheel with secondary controls, a navigation system, and BMW's love-it-or-hate-it iDrive central command technology. Enthusiasts will enjoy the sport seats with adjustable backrests, perfect for keeping you in place when slicing through narrow canyons.

What BMW Says

BMW's marketing trust had this to say about the brand's updated icon: "BMW once again proves there is nothing inherently slow about evolution with the introduction of the 2008 M3 Coupe, fourth in the line of compact sport coupes which set the standard in minimizing any compromises between race-inspired performance and luxury and convenience.

What We Think

We're admitted enthusiasts and this is a 414-horsepower, V-8 powered, rear-drive BMW with a manual transmission that'll hit 60 mph in less than five seconds. Sure, previous versions of the convertible haven't provided enthusiasts with as much fun as their more rigid hard-topped versions. However, the convertible remains a popular choice, if a quick drive around the more hoity-toity areas of Southern California is any indication. Hey, we like convertibles as much as the next guy - and especially those that go fast and drive fun.

By Staff
Photo Credit: BMW