BMW 3-Series Convertible

So it is the first BMW with a retractable hardtop. Introduced in 2007, there is no major changes in 2008. This convertible is perfect for 2 persons to go for a drive around or a vacation when the weather permits. It's available initially 325i and 335i guises, and followed by smaller engine variants and diesel-powered models. The engine and chasis are the same as the 3-series coupe, what is different is, it gives up a little weight and luggage room in return for the 'fun of top-down motoring in an all-season automobile.' Both the 325i Convertible and the 335i Convertible come as standard with a 6-speed manual gearbox. A new 6-speed automatic transmission featuring steering wheel-mounted gearshift paddles first shown on the 3-series coupe can also be specified.

This 3-series features BMW's first electronically operated folding hard-top roof. In 2009, the 328i model is being introduced. It is also the first car to be offered seat-cooling leather and a brace of all-new power plants. Ergo, the only difference between 328i and 335i is the power plant. The 328i uses BMW's normally aspirated 3-liter inline six, offering 230 hp at 6,500 rpm and 200 foot-pounds of torque at 2,750 rpm. Power is transmitted to the rear wheels through a standard six-speed manual transmission - a six-speed automatic with rapid-action Steptronic gear selection is optional.

The 335i uses BMW's new 3-liter inline 6-cylinder with twin turbochargers, high-precision fuel injection, and all-aluminum crankcase. Producing an enviable 300 hp and comparable 300 pound-feet of torque, the 335i is capable of zero to 60 in a very sporting 5.5. seconds and cruising at 75 mph at half its red-line limit (I'm in the clouds).

BMW said that storage space is being maximised, with the roof up, the boot provides 350 litres of storage and 210 litres with it down (the folding hardtop adds circa 500 pounds to the car compares to the 3-series coupe - but fret not, this has no impact on fuel efficiecy, so as they say).

The interior offers the same functional elegance for which BMW has become known. The front seats are exceptionally comfortable and supportive on corners, while the rear seats are adequate for two adults for short distances. The folding mechanism takes up a little trunk space, however the the back seat can be folded down to offer a kind of luggage shelf.

Here are some images.

Don't get me wrong, I'm not getting all soft on luxury cabriolets. Just happens that a friend of mine is thinking in getting one of these babies.

Cheers.