The cabriolet version of the current M3 is finally available on the local market and even though the iconic Munich road rocket is in its autumn years, this ragtop may make Mercedes-Benz rue its decision not to launch the CLK55 AMG drop top in South Africa.
The cabriolet version of the current M3 is finally available on the local market and even though the iconic Munich road rocket is in its autumn years, this ragtop may make Mercedes-Benz rue its decision not to launch the CLK55 AMG drop top in South Africa.
The ragtop version of the M3 is wider and sits 14 mm lower, even with the roof closed, than its coupé sibling. It comes with features typical across BMW’s M range, including hair-raising speed provided by the naturally aspirated 3,2-litre engine, M suspension with high performance brakes and a standard six-speed manual transmission with the SMG ‘box as an option.
Electric motors open and close the M3 convertible’s roof, the roof compartment lid comes with a closing assistant that is operated manually and the glass rear window can be heated in winter. A wind deflector helps to protect the two front occupants from unpleasant wind swirls and can be folded up into more compact dimensions when not in use.
For the optimum use of luggage space, the M3 convertible has a variable roof compartment. By moving a lever, the luggage compartment will then increase to a total of 300 litres.
Regarding the M3 convertible’s safety, the body shell has been stiffened with a rollover safety system as standard, complemented by a highly stable windscreen frame. In the event of a rollover, the rear headrests would automatically move up to further protect the passengers.
The new suspension geometry with a wider track along with the new Variable M Differential Lock and Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) ensure smooth motoring.
The inner-vented compound brakes with cross-drilled brake discs and 18-inch light alloy wheels shod with 225/45 ZR 18 and 255/40 ZR 18 tyres ensure that the M3 convertible will stop in the quickest times. Like the M3 coupé, 19-inch wheels are available as an option.
The M3 convertible’s 3,2-litre straight six powerplant produces a 252 kW at 7 900 r/min and maximum torque of 365 N.m at 4 900 r/min. Despite its high engine speeds, about 80 per cent of this M3’s torque is available from 2 000 r/min.
Weighing 1 655 kg, the M3 convertible accelerates from 0-100 km/h in 5,5 seconds, and reaches a top speed of 250 km/h (electronically limited).
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