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BMW M3
Every week I test a different car, we test everything of every conceivable stripe. SUV, pickup trucks, sports cars and even economy cars. And ever now and then I get stuck with something like this and I say: "why me?" Well this happens to be the M3 so I say: "lucky me".
When it comes to BMW, anything with an M in front of its model designation is worth getting worked up about, and the M3 convertible is no exception. Here it's the brawny engine that gets you sweaty. Simply, it is the best inline six in the world. Using drive-by-wire and variable valve timing on both the intake and exhaust cams means it is technically proficient. It also has some serious numbers - 333 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque. Playing with the valve timing on the intake side brings a broad torque curve that seems almost endless. In timed runs, I clocked a zero to 100 km/h run in 5.5 seconds. Better still, when you hit 80K and mat the gas, this thing is seriously quick. For the brave, or foolish depending on your point of view, the M3 will run full-tilt to its electronically governed top speed of 250 km/h.
The highlight of this car; M3 benefits aside, is down to the "Sequential M" gearbox. Beneath the car you have a traditional 6 speed manual gearbox, but inside there is no clutch pedal. Rather what you have is two different modes; a fully automatic mode where the car looks after it's self, or the more fun sequential mode. When you select the sequential mode you can up shift using the lever or the steering wheel mounted F1 like paddles.
You get blinding speed because there is no power sapping torque converter and when you do shift the up shift is so quick you get a minimal interruption in power to the rear wheels.
When it comes to handling, the M3 convertible is as good as anything offered. In spite of the drop top configuration, the body is structurally strong meaning no body flex. This allows the suspension to do its thing properly. The settings are taut and so there is little, if any, body roll.
Through the pylons, it proved to be fast, flat and unflustered. The bonus is the ride quality will not beat you up on the daily commute. The brakes follow the theme. Large rotors at each corner are controlled by an advanced anti-lock system. Dropping the anchor saw the car pulled to a halt in just 101 feet from 80K. The ABS also works hand-in-hand with the dynamic stability control system. Given the power, this thing can be likened to an electronic guardian angel.
I've saved the best bit of this transmission for last and it really is aimed at the inner racer in any car enthusiast. After selecting a few buttons, you now have a replicated version of BMW's formula 1 launch control. You simply hold the gear lever forward and floor the gas pedal and it holds the engine at 2000RMP, but when you let go; look out!
Inside, the layout is all business. An attractive dash with large logical dials takes center stage with the center stack housing the audio and climate controls. Fortunately, there are redundant radio controls on the steering wheel. This allows you to keep your hands on the wheel and close to the paddle shifters. The M3 convertible is a true 4-seater. Up front, the heavily bolstered seats keep you planted when the going gets fast, while the rear seats bring a surprising amount of legroom. It's here you'll also find one of the M3's few shortcomings. Unless you secure the rear seatbelts in two special clips when not in use, they really do flap annoyingly in the proverbial breeze.
I'm glad to report that the M3 is alive and more than capable of kicking just about any automotive butt. Indeed, especially when equipped with the SMG. Be warned though, first impressions are not that favorable, you've got to learn how to use it, which means a longer than usual test drive if you're thinking about buying this car. A twisty road, a steely nerve and a couple of hours of fun and you'll be convinced that this gearbox is as good as it gets.
Price As Tested $88,400
Tire Tally
Performance - 5
Ride/ Handling - 5
Interior - 4
Touchy/ feely/ cargo -3
Safety - 4
Bang for $$ - 4
Immediate Competition
Chevrolet Corvette Convertible
Mercedes-Benz C32
Porsche Boxster S
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