Sunday 16 November 2008

BMW M3 LOSES ITS TOP






This is the third body version of the new BMW M3 high-performance convertible from BMW M GmbH and it is unique in its design and technical features. The car is now available to Mzansi buyers. Developed on the basis of the BMW 3 Series Convertible and consistent orientation to the high-performance character typical of BMW M, the M3 convertible offers similar thrills as the M3 Coupé and the M3 Sedan.


The electrohydraulically operated retractable hardtop ensures supreme performance in the BMW M3 Convertible with nothing but the sky above.


Authentic BMW M design as the expression of superior drive power; aluminium engine lid with striking powerdome; characteristic front end with large air intakes; powerfully flared wheel arches; specific BMW M interpretation of the classic lines of a BMW Convertible with its dynamically stretched silhouette, low waistline and muscular, low-slung rear end; gill elements in the front side walls; M-specific side sills contoured even more specifically towards the rear of the car as a visual tribute to rear-wheel drive; rear air dam with diffuser optimising the flow of air beneath the car; dual tailpipes typical of BMW M.


The BMW M3 Convertible is powered by BMW M’s new V8 displacing 4.0 litres and developing maximum output of 309kW, maximum torque is 400 Nm at 3900 rpm, maximum engine speed is 8400 rpm, optimum muscle and thrust throughout the entire range of engine speed.


Individual throttle butterflies, variable double-VANOS camshaft control, Brake Energy Regeneration; engine 15 kg lighter than the multi-award-winning 3.2-litre six-cylinder power unit on the former model.


Acceleration to 100 km/h in 5.3 seconds, top speed 250 km/h (limited electronically), average fuel consumption in the EU test cycle 12.9 litres/100 kilometres.


Available with the brand new 7-speed Double Clutch Gearbox (called M-DCT) conceived and developed for a high-speed power unit, gearshift without interruption of power and traction, gearshift management with M-specific configuration; seven gears for optimum gear increments ensuring particularly dynamic acceleration. M-DCT is having its simultaneous debut in the BMW M3 Coupé, BMW M3 Saloon, and BMW M3 Convertible.

MDrive for setting and retrieving the driver’s favourite engine control map, suspension and DSC set-up and Servotronic control map as an additional option.


Retractable hardtop in lightweight steel structure; three-piece roof structure with fully automatic opening and closing function; remote control of roof opening function featured as standard; opening time 22 seconds; optimum all-round visibility with hardtop closed thanks to large window areas.


Upgraded, high-class interior with a wide range of customisation options; innovative colour and materials concept; two rear seats with single seat contours; BMW Individual High End audio system with nine-channel amplifier and 16 high-output loudspeakers available as an option; M-specific paintwork and equipment variants.


The BMW M3 Convertible will set you back R767 000 with a 6-speed manual ‘box, while the M-DCT option will add R39 000 to that sticker price.

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