BMW 3-Series M3 Convertible (01-06) - Review

Review by Parkers on
A very impressive piece of kit, with sufficiently enhanced looks to distinguish it from cooking 3-Series models, the drop top simply adds an extra layer of appeal to the M3's already compelling specification. Ultimately the loss of the metal roof makes it less suitable for the race track, but that's not the point of this car. It's an everyday useable high performance car that you can also enjoy poodling about soaking up the sun in. You'll have to spend an awful lot of money to feel like you have much more of a car.
4.5 out of 5

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4.5 out of 5

Summary

New price range:

£45,195 - £47,445

Used price range:

£5,983 - £15,174

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Wind in your hair makes M3 even more thrilling

A lot of money for a 3-Series BMW

A very impressive piece of kit, with sufficiently enhanced looks to distinguish it from cooking 3-Series models, the drop top simply adds an extra layer of appeal to the M3's already compelling specification. Ultimately the loss of the metal roof makes it less suitable for the race track, but that's not the point of this car. It's an everyday useable high performance car that you can also enjoy poodling about soaking up the sun in. You'll have to spend an awful lot of money to feel like you have much more of a car.

Driving & Performance

  • Performance

    5 out of 5

    "It is a 3.2-litre straight six gem which delivers serious fire-power whenever you need it yet will..."

  • Handling

    4.5 out of 5

    "Feels a little firm at slower speeds but the pay-off is fantastic handling that is both balanced and..."

Comfort

  • Comfort

    3.5 out of 5

    "Rear space is poorer than a regular 3-Series Coupe, better suited for kids or adults on short..."

  • Practicality

    3 out of 5

    "The boot features a collapsible wall so that when the hood is not in use, more boot space is freed..."

  • Equipment

    4 out of 5

    "In addition to cruise control, ABS, power steering, automatic soft top, Cornering Brake Control..."

  • Behind the wheel

    3.5 out of 5

    "Essentially standard 3-Series with a few embellishments, best of which is a set of supremely..."

Costs

  • Running costs

    2.5 out of 5

    "Residuals are strong, but the running costs in terms of fuel, insurance, tyres and servicing are..."

  • Green credentials

    0.5 out of 5

    "3-Series’ 3.2-litre petrol unit returns just 20mpg, so it's no surprise that it gets a terrible eco..."

Safety & Reliability

  • Safety

    3.5 out of 5

    "The coupe model achieves a four-star Euro NCAP rating which the cabriolet should match and it..."

  • Reliability

    4.5 out of 5

    "M3 is a car people take for granted as being able to take a thrashing without any special treatment."

Buying & Selling

  • Buying new

    3 out of 5

    "Should just about be able to get hold of one now without a wait, although it is worth bearing in..."

  • Buying used

    3.5 out of 5

    "Plenty to choose from and thanks to the bespoke body panels, there's no danger of being sold a fake."

  • Selling

    4 out of 5

    "The M3 Cabriolet's talents are enough to ensure that selling one will be easy although be prepared..."

Gallery

  • Interior BMW 3-Series M3 Convertible (01-06)
  • Exterior BMW 3-Series M3 Convertible (01-06)
  • Exterior BMW 3-Series M3 Convertible (01-06)
  • Exterior BMW 3-Series M3 Convertible (01-06)

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Owners' reviews