Even though BMW is well known for its automobile performance, a select group of shoppers crave something even more thrilling. For that group, BMW has offered for years the M editions of its 3 Series, 5 Series and most recently, the smaller Z Series models: the Z3 and Z8. BMWs M division has turned out about 13,000 cars in two design generations.
Last seen in 1999 and based on the prior generation of the 3 Series models, the M3 coupe and convertible sat out the 2000 season. In spring 2001, they were relinquished in a fresh form and are hotter than ever, packing 333-horsepower six-cylinder engines, more than 100 hp beyond the regular 3 Series models. The new M3 convertible premiered at Detroits North American International Auto Show in January 2001, following the coupe that debuted nine months earlier at the New York Auto Show. The sticker price for the M3 coupe is $45,970. BMW claims the soft-top M3 that it is the only true high-performance, full four-seat convertible in its market segment.
A subtle decklid spoiler is installed at the rear, above a special M bumper/apron design. M3 models have a wider front and rear track than their less potent BMW mates, as well as unique suspension and underbody components.
The third is the generation M3 coupes and convertibles are identical from the front end to the A-pillar. A rising beltline imparts a visually lower stance to the convertible. The M3 coupe measures 176.7 inches long overall and stands 54 inches tall. At 70.1 inches, its width is nearly an inch greater than that of the 330Ci coupe. As on regular BMW convertibles, the fabric top folds into a variable stowage compartment, which offers increased storage capacity when the top is raised. Both M3 models have 18-inch tires on satin chrome finished wheels. A new tire-pressure control monitor alerts the driver if serious pressure loss occurs.
Standard equipment includes power windows, power heated mirrors, remote keyless entry and automatic climate control. A heated glass rear window is standard in the convertible, which also has a power-operated top. One push of a button initiates the entire top-down operation, from unlatching at the windshield header, to lowering the side windows slightly, to raising a rigid magnesium cover and closing it again. A wind deflector, removable aluminum hardtop and optional roof rack is available for the convertible. BMWs Park Distance Control system, a navigation system and a moonroof for the coupe also are optional.
BMWs electronic stability system, called Dynamic Stability Control, combines traction control and cornering, stability enhancement and is installed for the first time in an M3. BMW claims a 0-to-60-mph acceleration time of 5.5 seconds for the convertible. An M3 coupe should reach 60 mph in a mere 4.8 seconds. To help keep the driver from over revving a cold engine, a warning zone on the tachometer changes as the engine warms up, until it reaches the full 8,000-rpm REDLINE limit.
