2009 BMW Convertible

What better way is there to lower a car's center of gravity than to cut off its roof? The 2009 BMW M3 Convertible makes sure any weight gains caused by going with a drop-top can be overcome by way of the world’s lightest V8, a 32-valve, 4.0-liter, 420-hp beast, producing 295 lb-ft of torque. The V8’s maximum speed tops out at 8,300 rpm, and it enjoys power and weight-saving features such as electronic throttle control and cooling, an aluminum and silicon alloy crankcase, a distributor-less electronic ignition system, and variable valve timing. The six-speed manual transmission with hill-holder clutch, the only one offered, puts up EPA estimates of 14/20 mpg.

This rear-wheel-drive, two-door convertible has an M-calibrated sport suspension, including stiffened dampers and springs, an aluminum double-pivot gas-pressurized strut-type front suspension, a five-link rear suspension with coil springs and gas-pressurized shocks, and stabilizer bars front and rear. Its 18-inch wheels are 8.5 inches wide in the front and 1 inch wider in the rear. Wrapped in P245/40ZR18 front and P265/40ZR18 rear performance tires, grip should not be an issue. A limited-slip differential, traction control, and dynamic stability control corner babysitting duty.

Front air intake scoops, an M rear spoiler, flared fenders and wheel arches to accommodate the larger wheels, side air intake and fender gills, a chrome grille, clear signal lenses, unique M power heated mirrors, M door handles with ground lighting, and M badging all distinguish the M3 from its lesser siblings. Inside, an M three-spoke leather-wrapped tilt and telescoping steering wheel with integrated audio and phone controls, as well as M-color stitching and a special instrument cluster with faux-aluminum dials for the gauges all stand out. But the M3 does show a certain family resemblance, with standard 3 Series features such as 8-way power front bucket seats, a driver memory system, an AM/FM/CD/MP3 player with digital media connection, tri-zone climate control, dynamic cruise, and full power, including heated door locks and remote keyless entry.

Daytime running lights and steering-linked adaptive xenon headlights brighten the outside, while lighted visor mirrors, an auto-dimming rear-view mirror, and ambient interior lighting tackle the interior. Rain-sensing variable-intermittent wipers with heated washer jets are standard. A center console leads back to the split-folding rear seat. A trip computer and outside temperature indicator are further 3 Series carryovers. Safety features include a tire pressure monitor, four-wheel ventilated swing-caliper disc brakes with vacuum assist and anti-skid, dual front, front side, and front and rear side head-protecting airbags, front-seat active head restraints, and a theft-deterrent system.

By Michael Perkins