BMW 3-Series M3 Convertible 2d SMG (2003/53) Owner Review
Want to know everything there is to know about this car?
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Economy
Value
Very competent car. Probably the best mainstream performance 4-seater convertible but hell, do you pay for it! Lots of toys for the money, though. Always something to make you smile. SMG probably not worth the extra money, to be honest.
Costs
Expensive car to run, but it could be worse. 24V straight-6 engine is complicated by M-technics and is completely electronically controlled, meaning it only likes dealers with expensive laptops. Expect 9 (yes, 9!)-28mpg depending on foot weight!
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On the road
Driving
Superb, balanced machine with epic performance. Sequential gearbox takes some getting used to, but is smooth and fast once you've figured it out. You won't need the radio - raucous noise from the 4 exhausts is the best soundtrack for this car!
Performance
Outstanding. 3.2-litre engine is effectively 6 independently controlled single cylinder engines and kicks out near 345bhp! Convertible handles almost as well as Coupe with little body flex. Switch off traction control and have fun sliding the tail around!
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Living with it
Reliability
Nothing's gone wrong yet. Engine is protected by clever variable rev-limiter, which prevents cold thrashings. Should be bulletproof unless electronics go haywire. SMG is added complexity that probably isn't really needed.
Image
Aggressively beautiful styling looks stunning top up or down. Colour-matched hardtop looks even better for winter! Best driven al fresco.
Comfort
Seats are suportive and hard, but comfortable. Beautifully designed, made and appointed interior is a joy to be in, but if you're driving, you won't notice it! Cabin very civilised at speed with hood down. Fit a hardtop in winter for ultimate comfort.
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Security and Service
Security
Thatcham approved alarm as standard. High security locks. Anything with a softtop is going to be a higher risk unless you fit a removable hardtop.
Service
BMW dealers are expensive, but generally worth the money. High quality servicing and friendly advice from enthusiastic staff. Push for equivalent loaner while servicing and you could end up with an M5, if you're lucky!
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Problems and Ownership
Problems
Engine
No problems so far. Electronics protect the mechanics, so provided they hold out, everything should be fine!
Other
Ownership
Did you buy the car new?
New
Would you buy the same model again?
Yes
Did you buy from the same manufacturer again?
Yes