After the amazing coupe and sedan, BMW decides it's not over yet and hits us with the 2008 BMW M3 Convertible. Some performance figures for the 2008 BMW M3 Convertible :
engine - V8
displacing 4.0 litres
power - 309 kW/420 hp
torque - 400 Nm/295 lb-ft at 3,900 rpm
maximum engine speed - 8,400 rpm
and the sky as your roof.
If those performance figures of the 2008 BMW M3 Convertible are not enough to convince you, here are some more: 0 to 60 mph in 5.3 seconds and 5.1 seconds if you add the M DCT Drivelogic. The top speed of the
2008 BMW M3 Convertible is limited to 250 km/h.
The 0-60 mph acceleration time of the 2008 BMW M3 Convertible is longer than the one for the coupe. Usually a convertible is heavier because of extra body elemnts that have to be added to compensate for the lack of a fix roof.
BMW Press Release:
The new BMW M3 Convertible.
Description in Brief.
• Third body version of the new BMW M3; high-performance convertible from BMW M GmbH unique in its design and technical features; developed on the basis of the BMW 3 Series Convertible; consistent orientation to the high-performance character typical of BMW M, as with the BMW M3 Coupe and the BMW M3 Saloon. Car concept with a consistent, unique tradition: Fourth generation of both the 2008 BMW M3 Convertible and the BMW M3 Coupe.
• Unique combination of outstanding driving
dynamics with aesthetic looks, unparalleled experience of open-air motoring and superior everyday driving qualities in that special combination specific to BMW M. Electrohydraulically operated retractable hardtop ensuring supreme performance in the 2008 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.
• Exclusive driving experience: The unique power and performance of a BMW M3 combined with an incomparably intense experience of the sun and wind unique to a BMW Convertible.
• The 2008 BMW M3 Convertible is powered by BMW M’s brand-new V8 displacing 4.0 litres and developing maximum output of 309 kW/420 hp; maximum torque is 400 Nm/295 lb-ft at 3,900 rpm; maximum engine speed 8,400 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 six-cylinder power unit on the former model. Acceleration to 100 km/h in 5.3 seconds, top speed 250 km/h (155 mph) (limited electronically), average fuel consumption in the EU test cycle 12,9 litres/100 kilometres (equal to 21 mpg imp).
• Manual six-speed gearbox with integrated, temperature-controlled oil cooling; two-plate clutch optimised for mass inertia.
• 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.
• Brand-new suspension with specific, convertible-based reinforcements in typical M configuration, weight-optimised components and M-specific axle kinematics for a highly dynamic driving experience; forged aluminium track control arms; compound high-performance brake system.
• Optional EDC Electronic Damper Control with three selectable control maps; adaptive damper set-up responding to changes on the road surface and in the driver’s style of motoring; EDC allowing appropriate adjustment
to extremely dynamic driving conditions at any time, irrespective of the
mode chosen.
• 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.
• Body structure with extremely high standard of torsional stiffness; all-round
occupant protection by frontal and head/thorax airbags, three-point
inertia-reel seat belts on all seats, belt latch tensioners, belt force limiters
and central safety electronics for appropriate control of restraint systems
including rollover protection with roll bars moving up automatically behind
the rear seats; bi-xenon dual headlights featured as standard, Adaptive
Headlights as an option.
• 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.
Experience Power, Enjoy Freedom:
The new BMW M3 Convertible.
The BMW M3 model family is being upgraded by yet another fascinating
player: The new 2008 BMW M3 Convertible, the third body version of
BMW’s high-performance sports car following the Coupe and Saloon, offers
new possibilities to experience uncompromising driving dynamics.
Beneath the engine compartment lid lurks the V8 power unit displacing
4.0 litres and with all the features of a high-speed engine developed brandnew
from the ground up for the BMW M3. Above the heads of the driver
and passengers is either the three-piece hardtop opening and disappearing
completely into the rear roof compartment at the touch of a button
in just 22 seconds or of course the blue sky and the thrill of open air.
The new 2008 BMW M3 Convertible is a top-flight athlete able to offer truly
outstanding performance not only as a sports car, but also with many other
qualities, top performance, and highlights in motoring elegance, making
every moment in the car an experience in driving pleasure and keeping the
driver and passengers top fit at all times.
The 2008 BMW M3 Convertible draws its exceptional dynamic driving potential
from its new eight-cylinder power unit developing 309 kW/420 hp from
3,999 cubic centimetres. Maximum torque of 400 Newton-metres or 295 lb-ft
is just as impressive as maximum engine speed of 8,400 rpm.
This high engine speed concept so typical of BMW M engines comes straight
from the latest Formula 1 power unit raced by the BMW Sauber F1 Team.
Clearly, this outstanding principle of engine power ensures unique torque and
muscle also in the 2008 BMW M3 Convertible in transmitting engine power through
the variable M Differential Lock to the rear wheels.
Acceleration to 100 km/h comes in just 5.3 seconds and the car continues to
surge ahead with increasing power and performance as the driver keeps
his foot on the gas pedal, all the way to the car’s top speed of 250 km/h or
155 mph, where the engine’s electronic control unit sets a limit to the ongoing
speed and performance of this open-air athlete.
Outstanding performance and thrilling dynamics of this kind create the
first impression conveyed by the 2008 BMW M3 Convertible right from the start:
This very special two-door performer not only comes with the same drive technology as the BMW M3 Coupe and the BMW M3 Saloon, but is also a
brand-new development from the ground up, again boasting all the features so
typical of a BMW M model.
The 2008 BMW M3 Convertible thus transfers motorsport technology to everyday
motoring, meeting even the greatest demands made of such a highperformance
car. In its character, therefore, it is first and foremost a BMW M3,
while nevertheless betraying its unique identity side-by-side with the Coupe
and Saloon.
Tradition and innovation: the fourth 2008 BMW M3 Convertible,
the first model with a retractable hardtop.
BMW M GmbH has a long tradition in combining the thrill of a highperformance
sports car with the unique pleasure of motoring in the open air,
after the first 2008 BMW M3 Convertible was presented no less than 20 years ago.
And since the two following generations of the BMW M3 Coupe were also
joined by a 2008 BMW M3 Convertible, this concept has a long and consistent story
to look back on, although the fourth edition differs from its predecessors
on one essential point: For the first time a retractable hardtop protects the
driver and passengers in the 2008 BMW M3 Convertible from wind and weather.
Within the passenger compartment the three-piece roof ensures unrestricted
all-year driving pleasure and excellent noise control. It offers truly impressive
robustness and sturdiness in design and construction, highlights the sheer
value of the car and, through the large windows, ensures optimum all-round
visibility featuring a genuine coupe ambience within the interior.
As soon as the weather is right for motoring with the roof down, the three
elements forming the hardtop move up electrohydraulically and fully
automatically in a smooth and flowing process, swivelling to the rear and
coming to a rest in a compact stack above one another in the rear roof
compartment.
This extremely compact and space-saving accommodation of the roof
elements enhances both the looks of the open-air BMW M3 and the driving
experience so thrilling to the driver and passengers. The low-slung, elegantly
stretched silhouette reflects the character typical of a 2008 BMW M3 Convertible
not only in its looks, since the low waistline also ensures a unique and
particularly intense experience of the sun shining down and the wind rushing by.
Also featured on the M3 Convertible: know-how from motorsport as
the foundation, unique design as the principle.
Within the wide range of models from BMW M GmbH, the BMW M3 has
always been the strongest and most powerful reflection of motorsport. Indeed,
this already applied to the first edition of the BMW M3 launched in 1986 and
joined two years later by the first 2008 BMW M3 Convertible. The same philosophy
then continued with the two subsequent model generations and is now
also expressed clearly on the new BMW M3. A direct comparison with the
most thoroughbred sports cars in the classic sense of the word also places
the BMW M3 firmly in pole position.
Compared with its predecessor, the new 2008 BMW M3 Convertible offers
significant progress in terms of driving dynamics, which can indeed be clearly
measured through the car’s performance on the road. Convincing proof
of this superiority is the power-to-weight ratio optimised once again over the
previous model to just 4.3 kg per horsepower, an exceptionally good figure
even for a high-performance convertible of this calibre.
This all-round optimisation of the car comes out clearly also in the driving
experience, with the new V8 power unit offering its significantly greater
muscle, thrust, torque, fast-revving driving qualities and spontaneity also on
the new 2008 BMW M3 Convertible: The new 2008 BMW M3 Convertible not only
accelerates a lot faster than its predecessor, but also leaves the handful of
similarly powerful open-air models in its segment far behind on the road
through its outstanding agility in quick changes of direction, in tight bends or
on handling tracks making particular demands of the car. Indeed, it is
precisely these handling qualities that reflect the exceptional harmony of the
concept so typical of every BMW M Car and also to be enjoyed on the
new 2008 BMW M3 Convertible.
While the open-air BMW M3 is naturally based on the latest, fourth generation
of the “regular“ BMW 3 Series Convertible, the new model differs from the
standard version fundamentally in terms of both looks and technical features.
To begin with, the technical foundation for the new 2008 BMW M3 Convertible
is provided by the BMW M3 Coupe, unique design as well as drivetrain and
suspension technology created for supreme performance coming right at
the top in the brief given to the engineers at BMW M.
Apart from the load-bearing body structure, only the doors, the retractable
hardtop, the luggage compartment lid, the windows and the rear lights come
from the “standard” open-air version of the BMW 3 Series. The range
of brand-new body components, therefore, is virtually the same as in the
BMW M3 Coupe.
In terms of both design and driving experience: a genuine BMW M3
all the way.
The Convertible naturally stands out at very first sight as a genuine BMW M3.
Over and above the aluminium engine compartment lid with its distinctive
powerdome and the two openings for air intake, the car is also characterised
by the functional design of the front and rear air dams, the specially designed
gills in the front side panels also to be admired on the Coupe, the side-sills, as
well as exterior mirrors and light-alloy rims in that unique design so typical of
BMW M.
The front end is characterised by three large air intakes beneath the radiator
grille supplying intake and cooling air to the engine. Sturdy, vertical bars border
on the air intakes on either side and enhance the design language so
characteristic of the car. Together with the double kidney grille characteristic of
BMW and the low-slung headlight units with their bi-xenon main headlights
featured as standard, these design highlights give the 2008 BMW M3 Convertible
its highly dynamic look and appearance.
The overall structure of the car’s front end is determined first and foremost by
the supply of air to the high-performance power unit, large sections at the
front opening up to provide the naturally aspirated engine with a smooth flow
of air. It is only obvious, therefore, that for reasons of technical and sporting
considerations alone this BMW M Car again does without the foglamps
otherwise featured on the BMW 3 Series.
Like on the BMW M3 Coupe, the side-sills come with particularly wide and
muscular contours and, through their two interacting surfaces, provide a
distinctive flow of air giving the car a lighter and more sporting appearance by
making the side panels look even lower and more dynamic. In their design,
the side-sills correspond with the shape of the striking body line running from
front to rear at the level of the door opener.
Seen from behind, the new 2008 BMW M3 Convertible again stands out through its
superior and powerful proportions. The lines along the side-sills and the rear
air dam dropping gently and smoothly to the rear accentuate the philosophy of
rear-wheel drive and the powerful stance of the car on the road. The contours
of the harmoniously chiselled diffuser beneath the bumper, in turn, take up the
specific shape and design of the air intakes at the front.
The air flow duct and the twin tailpipes for the exhaust positioned far towards
the middle of the car appear to draw together the rear end at its lower
centrepoint, creating awe-inspiring optical tension interacting powerfully with
the horizontal lines of the bumper.
Despite all their similarity in character and style, the Coupe and Convertible
are nevertheless quite different, without the slightest risk of confusion. Clearly,
the unique design of the 2008 BMW M3 Convertible comes primarily from its
hardtop – and from the possibility to open the roof whenever the driver and
passengers desire.
With the roof down, the 2008 BMW M3 Convertible, particularly through its lowslung
silhouette, offers a unique symbiosis of athletic style and sporting
elegance. At the same time the hardtop gives the car its own individual lines
when closed, the 2008 BMW M3 Convertible highlighting its identity among other
things through the far more accentuated transition from the roofline to the rear
as opposed to the more gentle and smoother line on the Coupe. A further
point is that both the side window frames and the shaft covers come as
standard in matt silver-glistening aluminium, with high-gloss Satin Chrome
available as an option.
Special BMW M colours for even greater exclusivity.
Outside, the new 2008 BMW M3 Convertible is available with a choice of no less
than four special M metallic paintwork colours highlighting in particular
the contours and proportions of the body surfaces: Melbourne Red metallic,
for example, combines outstanding brilliance with unique depth of colour.
Jerez Black offers highly interesting colour nuances through the addition of
blue pearl pigments. Powerful Interlagos Blue, through the addition of
red colour pigments, provides a highly attractive transition under certain light
conditions into violet. And last but not least, Silverstone already featured
on the BMW M5 and the BMW M6 is a light silver with a slight touch of blue.
The new 2008 BMW M3 Convertible is also available in Alpine White and Black as
well as Sparkling Graphite metallic.
The interior: four seats, if you wish with the roof down.
Creating the interior, the designers and other specialists at BMW M have
successfully reached their objective to offer the occupants maximum driving
pleasure in an ambience perfectly tailored to their requirements. This applies
particularly to the driver’s seat, with all elements required for active motoring
being modified accordingly and, through their enhanced functions, reflecting
the exceptional power and performance of the 2008 BMW M3 Convertible.
As soon as the retractable hardtop folds up into the rear compartment,
the driver and front passenger enjoy a truly incomparable open-air atmosphere
further promoted by the low-slung shoulder line, the seating position moved
far to the back, and the short windscreen. The result of this concept, obviously,
is an optimum experience of open-air motoring.
The frame round the windscreen keeps a generous distance from the heads
of the front passengers, allowing the sun and, to a pleasant degree, the wind to
flow smoothly into and around the interior.
A further highlight is that the occupants now enjoy an even more direct,
undiluted experience of the V8 power unit with its unmistakable acoustics.
Despite the low and sporting seat position, the waistline of the car is also
surprisingly low. And since this attractive body line flows almost parallel to the
road all the way to the rear, the passengers on the two rear seats designed
and finished as single seats also enjoy unlimited pleasure of driving in the
open air. Lots of fresh wind as well as unrestricted visibility in all directions
therefore characterise the unique experience of driving the new BMW M3
Convertible with the roof down.
For the first time ever: an eight-cylinder in a 2008 BMW M3 Convertible.
After a great 15 years, the straight-six power unit featured in the two preceding
generations of the BMW M3 and lauded several times over as the Engine of
the Year has now found a worthy successor: For the first time all model variants
of the new BMW M3 come with an eight-cylinder power unit.
The specifications of this all-new high-performance V8 clearly prove the
competence of the engine specialists at BMW M GmbH derived directly from
motorsport: Displacing 3,999 cc, the new V8 develops a supreme
309 kW/420 hp. Maximum torque of 400 Newton-metres or 295 lb-ft, in turn,
comes at an engine speed of 3,900 rpm. And some 85 per cent of this
maximum torque is readily available throughout the enormous engine speed
range of 6,500 rpm.
The eight-cylinder nevertheless owes its most outstanding characteristics to
the high-speed engine concept so typical of BMW M. Because revving all
the way to 8,400 rpm, the engine boasts truly shattering thrust and flexibility.
The experience of power and muscle is therefore simply unique all the way.
Power is transmitted to the rear wheels by a six-speed manual gearbox and the
all-new final drive.
This combination of engine and transmission provides a feeling of acceleration
quite comparable in its spontaneity and ongoing surge of power to the
dynamic potential of the most supreme high-performance thoroughbred
sports cars.
Apart from specific output of 105 hp per litre, average fuel consumption of
12,9 litres/100 kilometres (equal to 21 mpg imp) determined in the EU test
cycle is a clear expression of the engineering art and outstanding skills of the
engine development specialists at BMW M GmbH. Through this quality
alone, the new 2008 BMW M3 Convertible ensures a standard of efficiency quite
unique in the small segment of open high-performance sports cars.
Weighing just 202 kg or 445 lb, the V8 power unit of the new BMW M3 is a
genuine lightweight. Indeed, it is even 15 kg or 33 lb lighter than the engine in
the former model – a six-cylinder.
Production of components using know-how from Formula 1.
The engine block on the new eight-cylinder comes from BMW’s light-alloy
foundry in Landshut just north of Munich, which also builds the engine blocks for
the Formula 1 cars raced by the BMW Sauber F1 Team. The crankcase
is made of a special aluminium-silicon alloy making conventional cylinder liners
superfluous, since an appropriate cylinder surface is provided by the hard silicon
crystals, the iron-coated pistons running directly in this uncoated, honed bore.
With high engine speeds and combustion pressure putting extremely great loads
on the crankcase, the crankcase is compact and extra-strong in bedplate
design, ensuring very precise and smooth running conditions for the crankshaft.
The forged crankshaft itself is extremely strong in terms of bending and torsional
stiffness, while at the same time it only weighs about 20 kg or 44 lb.
Valve management by double-VANOS using engine oil pressure.
The V8 power unit within the engine compartment of the 2008 BMW M3 Convertible is
equipped with variable double-VANOS camshaft control. Keeping valve
adjustment times to a minimum, this technology reduces losses in the charge
cycle and improves engine output, torque and response accordingly, with
an appropriately positive influence on both fuel consumption and emissions.
A low-pressure version of double-VANOS has been developed especially for the
new eight-cylinder to ensure ultra-short and fast adjustment timing even under
normal engine oil pressure.
A separate throttle butterfly for each cylinder is the supreme technology not only
on a racing engine when it comes to ensuring an immediate response at all times.
Which is precisely why the new power unit features eight individual throttle
butterflies, two adjuster motors each controlling four throttle butterflies on each
row of cylinders. This guarantees a particularly smooth and sensitive response
of the engine at low speeds combined with an immediate reaction as soon as the
driver calls up more power on the gas pedal.
A smooth and consistent supply of lubricant to the eight-cylinder is ensured
by the volume flow-controlled pendulum-slide cell pump delivering exactly the
amount of oil required by the engine at any given point in time. Wet sump
lubrication optimised for driving dynamics keeps the flow of lubricant consistent
and sufficient even in extreme braking manoeuvres, with the system boasting
two oil sumps – a small one upfront of the front axle subframe and a larger sump
further back. A separate duocentric reflow pump, finally, serves to extract the oil
from the front sump and pump it to the rear.
New Engine Management and Brake Energy Regeneration.
A further enhancement is electronic management of the V8 power unit for
optimum coordination of all engine functions. At the same time the electronic
control unit supports the various functions of the clutch, transmission, steering
and brakes all tailored to the specific demands and standards of a BMW M Car.
And last but not least, engine management provides a wide range of on-board
diagnostic functions, just as it masterminds and controls various ancillary units.
Access to the various engine control maps is also masterminded with the same
precision. No less than three different maps are available for engine management,
two being activated via a button on the centre console and a further map being
controlled via the optional MDrive system. In each case the control maps are
influenced by the position of the throttle butterflies in the intake manifold and by
other parameters significantly changing engine response.
Ion flow technology serving to recognise the risk of the engine knocking as well as
misfiring and miscombustion is a further highlight in engine management.
Contrary to conventional technology, this new, revolutionary method detects such
risks directly where they may occur, that is within the engine combustion chamber.
To do this, the spark plug on each cylinder is carefully monitored and controlled for
any indication of knocking. Correct ignition is also controlled in the same process
and any mis-firing is effectively detected.
The spark plug thus serves as an actuator for the ignition and as a sensor carefully
monitoring the combustion process, thus distinguishing between miscombustion
and misfiring.
This dual function of the spark plug also facilitates diagnostic processes in
maintenance and service.
Intelligent energy management with Brake Energy Regeneration enhances the
efficiency of the V8 power unit in the new 2008 BMW M3 Convertible to an even higher
standard. The particular point in this case is that electric power for the on-board
network is generated specifically while in overrun and when applying the brakes.
This serves to charge the car’s battery without directly using the energy
contained in the fuel. As long as the engine is pulling the car, therefore, the
alternator generally remains disengaged. Apart from particularly efficient
generation of electric power, this also offers the advantage of even more driving
power when accelerating.
Six-speed manual gearbox perfectly matched to the V8 power unit.
The new 2008 BMW M3 Convertible comes as standard with a manual six-speed
gearbox featuring gear ratios perfectly tailored to the high-speed concept
of the eight-cylinder engine. With short gear lever travel like in motorsport and
crisp, precise movement of the shift lever, the driver is able at all times to
transmit the superior power and thrust of the V8 to the rear wheels with the
ideal gear ratio.
Integrated, temperature-controlled oil cooling keeps the temperature of the
transmission fluid within the right range even under extreme conditions –
for example on the race track. The two-plate clutch optimised for mass inertia,
in turn, is carefully matched to the superior power and muscular torque of the
eight-cylinder. And the six-speed manual gearbox with all the features so
typical of BMW M is likewise able at all times to optimise the superior potential
of the new 2008 BMW M3 Convertible when accelerating and going for superior
performance.
Special chassis and suspension for the dynamic performance typical
of a BMW M3.
Like the BMW M3 Coupe and the BMW M3 Saloon, the new BMW M3
Convertible also features rear-wheel drive. This principle of splitting up
steering and drive forces on the front and rear axle ensures ideal conditions for
dynamic driving qualities, very good directional stability, and safe handling.
From the start, therefore, the new 2008 BMW M3 Convertible offers the
ideal configuration for a particularly agile high-performance sports car.
The new 2008 BMW M3 Convertible boasts a chassis and suspension tailor-made
for the particular requirements and features of an open car. The “foundation”,
of course, is provided by the chassis and suspension carried over from the
BMW M3 Coupe appropriately modified for the specific weight distribution
and the different roof on the Convertible. Like on convertibles in general,
additional features have been integrated in the new 2008 BMW M3 Convertible to
optimise its torsional stiffness. Compared with former generations of the
2008 BMW M3 Convertible, torsional stiffness particularly important to safety and
driving dynamics has been significantly increased to an even higher standard,
also taking the increase in engine output into account.
Benefitting from the demanding chassis and suspension, as well as the overall
construction of the car, the new 2008 BMW M3 Convertible offers dynamic driving
qualities quite comparable to the excellent driving features already ensured by
the BMW M3 Coupe and Saloon.
Rear axle with reinforced suspension and modified air flow.
On the rear axle the V-bars already featured on the Coupe and Saloon to
provide the necessary reinforcement have been extended all the way to the
side-sills. This configuration enhances chassis stiffness around the rear axle
and provides appropriate axle kinematics for a car with supreme engine power
and sporting performance all round. In addition, the engineers at BMW M
GmbH have modified the flow of air beneath the car at the rear to the change
in design and construction, thus ensuring optimum cooling on the final drive.
In its overall construction, the five-arm rear axle is designed consistently for
minimum weight. The anti-roll bar, for example, is a hollow tube in the interest
of significant weight reduction. So despite the slightly larger diameter of the
tube than on the Coupe, the anti-roll bar on the 2008 BMW M3 Convertible offers
an ideal combination of superior efficiency and low weight. Together
with the axle arms made of forged aluminium and the aluminium dampers,
the reduction in weight ensured in this way adds up to approximately 2.5 kg.
The front axle assembly is the same as on the Coupe and Saloon, with nearly
all components on the double-arm front axle made of aluminium. A high
standard of lateral stiffness at the front reflecting the superior power of the
engine is ensured among other things by extra-stiff spring struts, swivel
mounts and axle supports specific to BMW M, and an additional light-alloy
reinforcement panel beneath the engine. And like the anti-roll bar at the
rear, the anti-roll bar on the front axle is also a tubular structure serving to
optimise its functions and minimise its weight.
Compound brake system and forged light-alloy wheels.
The new 2008 BMW M3 Convertible comes with the same extra-large compound
brakes as on the Coupe and Saloon. The inner-vented, cross-drilled grey-cast
iron brake discs measuring 360 millimetres/14.2´´ in diameter at the front and
350 millimetres/13.8´´ at the rear are connected to the aluminium disc support
by stainless-steel pins cast into position.
With this configuration significantly reducing the thermal loads acting on the
brake discs, brake performance and service life are enhanced accordingly.
A further advantage of this high-performance brake system is the additional
reduction of weight where it really counts, that is on the car’s unsprung
masses.
An ongoing, continuous wear indicator permanently monitors the condition
of the brake pads, a display in the cockpit informing the driver of their
remaining service life. This not only enhances safety on the road, but also
avoids unnecessary service and maintenance.
The underpressure required for the brake servo is generated by an electrical
pump independently of engine speed.
The new 2008 BMW M3 Convertible comes as standard on forged light-alloy
wheels in BMW M design. Rim dimensions are 8.5 x 18 inches at the front on
245/40 low- profile tyres and 9.5 x 18 inches at the rear on 265/40 tyres.
Servotronic with two control maps for optimum steering power
assistance.
The new 2008 BMW M3 Convertible comes with rack-and-pinion steering featuring
hydraulic Servotronic support. Servotronic reduces the steering forces required,
with the degree of power assistance related to the speed of the car on the road.
At low speeds, therefore, Servotronic provides a lot more steering support to
reduce the steering effort, for example when parking. At high speeds, on the other
hand, power assistance is reduced accordingly in the interest of enhanced
directional stability.
Using the optional MDrive configuration system, the driver is able to pre-select the
actual effect and assistance factor provided by Servotronic following either the
Normal or the Sports control maps.
In the Sports setting, Servotronic gives the driver a particularly direct feeling
for optimum feedback on road conditions. On winding country roads and at high
speeds this enables the driver to steer the car with unparalleled precision. In the
Normal mode, by contrast, power assistance is increased consistently throughout
the entire speed range.
Variable M Differential Lock for perfect traction on the rear axle.
The new final drive features BMW’s variable M Differential Lock also on the
2008 BMW M3 Convertible. Generating up to 100 per cent locking action
when required in a fully variable process, this special differential lock ensures
optimum traction on all surfaces and in fast, dynamic bends.
The variable M Differential Lock responds to differences in speed
between the left and right rear wheel and offers ideal support enhancing
the positive qualities of rear-wheel drive to an even higher standard.
Dynamic driving programs in M-specific configuration.
Electronic dynamic driving programs support the driver in dynamic situations
approaching the limits to driving physics. DSC Dynamic Stability Control,
for example, offers an even wider range of functions on the new BMW M3
Convertible in the interest of enhanced driving safety. When necessary DSC
will intervene specifically in the brakes on individual wheels and reduce
engine power in order to maintain driving stability. Pre-loading of the brake
pads serves, as another example, to give the driver valuable time when
applying the brakes in an emergency and significantly shorten his stopping
distances. Yet a further feature offered by DSC is regular Dry Braking not even
noticeable to the driver, keeping the brake discs free of the usual water film
on the surface when applying the brakes in the wet and thus avoiding any loss
of brake power.
Dynamic Stability Control includes ABS anti-lock brakes, ASC Automatic
Stability Control preventing the wheels from spinning on surfaces with
reduced grip, a Start-Off Assistant preventing the car from rolling back when
setting off on an uphill gradient, and CBC Cornering Brake Control reducing
the risk of the car spinning or swerving out of control in a bend. A further
feature of DSC is its ability to increase brake pressure whenever the brake
system becomes extremely hot, thus maintaining a consistent level of
brake power (Fading Compensation).
The behaviour and response of these dynamic driving programs is naturally
tailored to the superior performance of the 2008 BMW M3 Convertible. The system
thus intervenes with electronic precision in an appropriate style matched to
the excellent dynamic qualities and supreme power of the car. A further point is
the driver’s option to configure certain parameters individually, thus adjusting
the response of the car to his personal preferences.
Pressing a button in the centre console, the driver is able to completely
deactivate DSC Dynamic Stability Control, the particularly ambitious driver
therefore being able in such a case to push the dynamic potential of his car to
the utmost. So when driving this sports car on a race track, the experienced
and ambitious specialist is able to reach the utmost limits to driving physics
and enjoy all of the car’s dynamic power in bends.
Electronic Damper Control responding spontaneously to every
change in driving conditions.
As an option the new 2008 BMW M3 Convertible may be equipped with
EDC Electronic Damper Control. Adjusting damper forces electrohydraulically,
EDC optimises both the car’s vertical vibration behaviour as well as its yaw
and roll motion in bends and its dynamic axle load distribution when applying
the brakes and when accelerating.
Like the engine control map, operation and implementation of Electronic
Damper Control may be varied at the simple touch of a button on the centre
console to the driver’s individual preferences, offering the driver the choice of
three settings Normal, Comfort, and Sports. The range of damper adjustment
covered in this way is far greater than with conventional systems of this kind.
Quite generally, the new 2008 BMW M3 Convertible offers a wide range of
driving qualities and characteristics all the way from very dynamic to more
comfortable. In the Sports mode, EDC keeps the body of the car and all
movements particularly firm and almost rigid. Wherever the driver does not
seek such a particularly sporting set-up, he can opt either for the Normal
or for the Comfort mode. In such cases, depending on the set-up chosen,
the system responds also to smaller bumps in the road by more sensitive
behaviour and with longer damper travel.
A further point is that EDC follows an adaptive pattern in all operating modes,
adjusting damper forces quickly and sensitively to any change in driving
conditions. As soon as faster movement of the steering wheel and higher
steering angle speeds indicate that the driver is opting for a more dynamic
style of motoring on winding roads, damper forces are increased automatically,
EDC possibly even reaching the maximum limit of damper force for a short
spell under such conditions, regardless of the set-up currently chosen.
This perfectly supports any spontaneous changeover from comfortable
cruising to a more sporting and active style of motoring.
Offering qualities of this kind, EDC ensures that the chassis and suspension
are able to perfectly handle the very different driving conditions and demands
faced in such a high-performance convertible. Featured in the new
2008 BMW M3 Convertible, EDC thus offers the entire range of motoring qualities
from smooth gliding at low speeds all the way to dynamic motoring in a
most sporting style. And with optional MDrive, the driver is even able to save
his preferred EDC set-up as part of the car’s individual configuration.
MDrive button on the steering wheel: enjoying the perfect set-up
at all times.
On the new 2008 BMW M3 Convertible the iDrive control system may be enhanced
as an option by an additional MDrive function. Using MDrive, the driver is
able to access the engine and Servotronic control maps, the various modes of
DSC, and, as a further option, the various EDC set-ups available. This gives
the driver the possibility to pre-select his personal set-up for all dynamic
driving systems open to configuration, thus enjoying “his” perfect set-up
in accordance with his personal preferences.
The car configuration defined individually in this way is then saved and
may be retrieved immediately simply by pressing the MDrive button on the
multifunction steering wheel, regardless of the system setting previously
chosen by way of the function buttons. This enables the driver to enjoy the
versatile character of his car in every respect and with all its facets, changing to
his personal set-up at the simple touch of a button.
MDrive also serves as an exclusive feature to activate the Sports Plus engine
control map, the M Dynamic Mode within the DSC range, and the Sports
Servotronic control map.
Torsionally stiff body as the foundation for superior occupant safety.
The extra-strong structure of the body with optimised torsional stiffness and
restraint systems tailored to a convertible provides the foundation from the
start for a high standard of passive safety and all-round occupant protection in
the new 2008 BMW M3 Convertible. Especially the restraint systems are particularly
flexible, being activated electronically according to current requirements and
driving conditions.
The use of high-strength steel for the extra-large load-bearing structures,
together with the exactly defined arrangement of deformation zones in the
event of a collision, guarantees appropriate diversion and, respectively,
absorption of the forces acting on the car. The space available for deformation
is used in full in order to avoid damage to the passenger cell or keep any
such deformation in the passenger area as small as possible even in a severe
collision.
The airbags, belt latch tensioners and belt force limiters are activated by the
central safety electronics as a function of the type and severity of a collision.
Using sensors in the middle of the car, in the B-pillars and in the doors,
the electronic safety “brain” determines which safety components will offer
the occupants maximum protection, activating only those restraint systems
actually required.
The driver and front passenger are protected by frontal and side airbags
activated in two stages in accordance with the severity of a collision.
The head/thorax airbags at the side are integrated in the seat backrests and
inflate in a side-on collision over a large area extending from the bottom of the
backrest all the way to the top edge of the headrest. This gives the occupants
optimum protection on their upper body and head, regardless of their personal
seating position.
The side airbags protect both the body and the head of the occupant in the
event of a collision from the side, while the risk of leg injury in a head-on
collision is reduced on the driver’s side by predetermined deformation of the
footrest.
The 2008 BMW M3 Convertible also comes with a rollover sensor system
permanently monitoring vertical and horizontal movement of the car. At the
same time a central computer evaluates data on current driving conditions,
so that when the roof is open rollbars positioned behind the headrests are
activated and move up immediately whenever the system registers the risk of
a rollover. The belt latch tensioners for the front seats and the head/thorax
airbags are activated at the same time, and as a further precaution for the
event of a rollover the A-pillars and the windscreen frame are even stronger
and more stable than usual.
The interior: enjoying freedom and dynamism for four.
The freedom of driving in the open air and the dynamic performance of a
BMW M3 – in the new 2008 BMW M3 Convertible this is a outstanding experience for
up to four occupants. The front seats feature integrated belt systems, while
the centre console extending all the way to the back splits the rear seat bench into
two separate seats with generous headroom. In comparison with the former
model, shoulder room at the rear is up 9 centimetres or 3.5´´, elbow room has
been increased by an even more significant 11 centimetres or 4.3´´.
Access to the rear seats is facilitated by the Easy Access function on the front
seats, and the seat release lever is arranged in its ideal ergonomic position
at the top on the outside of the backrest.
The new 2008 BMW M3 Convertible proves its superior touring qualities also through
unusually variable storage capacities and options. Even with the roof open,
the luggage compartment still offers capacity of 210 litres or 7.35 cubic feet,
enough for a large hard-shell suitcase or up to two golf bags.
The rear compartment in the Convertible may also be used as additional storage
space. In this case, after folding down the single-piece rear seat backrest,
the driver and front passenger are able to load even bulky objects on the flat
surface without the risk of soiling, let alone damaging, the seat upholstery.
A feature quite unique in a convertible of this calibre is the optional opening
between the luggage compartment and the passenger area measuring about
40 centimetres or almost 16´´ in width. Clearly, this is ideal for throughloading
long objects such as skis, snowboards or golf bags from the luggage
compartment into the rear passenger area.
Qualities of this kind make the new 2008 BMW M3 Convertible the ideal car for the
driver and passenger travelling alone and enjoying superior versatility in every
respect. But even when all four seats are occupied, this through-loading facility
connecting the luggage and the passenger compartments may be used
conveniently thanks to the large opening between the rear seats.
The opening and closing mechanism for the retractable hardtop is activated by a
switch in the centre console. A further possibility is to open the hardtop by remote
control from the central locking.
Enhanced remote control with comfort access is available as an option,
enabling the driver to start the car without even using a key and offering the
possibility to close the hardtop from a distance.
To avoid any inadvertent activation of the hardtop, this signal to close the roof is
transmitted to the car only up to a distance of four metres or just over13 feet
at the very most.
Comfort access also allows particularly convenient loading and unloading of
the luggage compartment with the roof open. In order to improve access to the
luggage compartment in such a case, the hardtop, when open, is moved by
remote control to an interim position enabling the driver to conveniently take out
large objects such as golf bags.
The process of loading the car is also facilitated by the variable panel separating
the roof from the luggage compartment. With the hardtop closed, this cover
may be swivelled up electrically, enlarging luggage space to a volume of up to
350 litres or 12.25 cubic feet.
The cover panel is activated by a switch in the centre console of the car. Once it
has been lowered, the new 2008 BMW M3 Convertible can start to convert into an
open-air model. The luggage compartment lid, in turn, comes with a Soft-Close
function smoothly and gently pulling the lid into position in an automatic process
after loading and unloading.
Interior design: focusing on an active driving experience.
Through the athletic design of its body, the new 2008 BMW M3 Convertible clearly
proves its sporting qualities with the hardtop both open and closed.
The interior supplements this particular flair and appearance, seeking to offer
the driver the optimum driving experience and to give all occupants a beautiful
ambience tailored to their needs and preferences. Powerful contours and
flowing lines emphasising in particular the concave and convex surfaces
surround the four seats. The horizontal lines dominating the dashboard area
and the harmonious surfaces on the side panels add a particularly dynamic
touch to the interior.
The control area formed by the cockpit flows between the front seats into the
centre console oriented in its geometry to the driver through its discreet
sweeping shape. The console itself is finished in black leather, harmoniously
continuing the instrument surrounds and control area in both colour and
design. Three function switches (Power, DSC Off, and optional EDC) are
positioned on the side facing the driver to activate or deactivate the electronic
dynamic driving programs.
Over and above the clear design and optimum ergonomics of all controls
and instruments, the choice of colours within the interior also serves to help
the driver concentrate on driving conditions and the particular experience he
enjoys in his new 2008 BMW M3 Convertible. Regardless of the equipment colour
chosen by the driver, the footwells and the upper section of the instrument
panel are finished in Anthracite. In addition, the dark roof lining on the hardtop
and the lining on the A-pillars in the same colour emphasise the clear
orientation to the driver so typical of BMW M.
The consistently dark colour scheme around the windscreen again helps the
driver concentrate in full on the road and traffic conditions. Moving on to the
front passenger and the passengers sitting at the rear, the colour scheme also
enhances the experience of driving and enjoying a genuine sports car.
The door panels and rear side panels, for example, appear lower than they
actually are through the use of black leather. A double seam emphasising
the exclusive character of the materials chosen and their finish separates the
upper section of the door and side panels from the interior sections and
surfaces finished in the respective equipment colour.
BMW M all the way: rev counter with a variable warning zone.
Right from the start when getting into the car, the driver and passengers will
see from the M logo on the door entry strips that this Convertible is a genuine
BMW M3 – a car unique in its own right. The dual circular instruments typical
of BMW, the speedometer and fuel gauge as well as the rev counter and oil
temperature gauge all come in special BMW M design and visualise the
supreme power and performance of the eight-cylinder. The numbers stand out
clearly in white from a black background, the indicator needles in the traditional
red of BMW M are particularly easy to see and follow.
The variable warning field on the rev counter is again typical of a BMW M Car
informing the driver during the warm-up phase of the speed at which he can
run the engine, depending on current engine oil temperature: The borderline
between the pre-warning area in yellow and the warning area in red moves up
on the new 2008 BMW M3 Convertible as a function of increasing oil temperature
until finally reaching its limit of 8,400 rpm.
Digital indicators showing the time, the outside temperature, mileage and
telltale control lights are positioned between the two circular dials.
The M leather steering wheel is the perfect interface between man and
machine. Its rim with special thumb contours resting in the driver’s hands in
sporting style ensures an optimum grip for precise movements of the
steering wheel. The spokes in the wheel house the remote control buttons for
the audio system and mobile phone and, as an option, the MDrive
button activating the various set-ups saved in the car. A further button may
be programmed by iDrive, offering the driver a personalised function.
Wide range of personalisation options in the interior.
The front seats specially made for open-air motoring with their integrated belt
systems have again been modified to the specific requirements of BMW M,
ensuring excellent side support even in particularly fast and dynamic bends.
As an option both the driver and front passenger can enjoy seats with
backrests adjustable for width.
The new 2008 BMW M3 Convertible comes as standard with high-quality leather
on all four seats. This newly developed Novillo fully tanned leather offering
a particularly elegant and sporting touch through its smooth and soft surface,
is available either in classic Black or in Palladium Silver, Bamboo Beige and
Fox Red.
As a further option the range of Novillo leather may be extended to the
lower section of the dashboard, the lid on the glove compartment, and the
side panels on the centre console.
Sun Reflective Technology featured on the leather surfaces of the new
2008 BMW M3 Convertible ensures unlimited driving pleasure with the roof down in
bright sunshine and summer weather. Special cooling pigments integrated
into the material reduce surface heating as a result of sunshine by up to 20° C,
even when the car has been parked in bright sunshine for a long time with
the roof down. In practice this means that while the leather upholstery will be
relatively warm after being exposed to the sun for a long spell, it will not get hot.
Four exclusive trim strip options extending across the entire width of the
dashboard beneath the control display and instrument cluster offer
further options in personalising the new 2008 BMW M3 Convertible. Interior trim
in Titanium Shadow comes as standard on the new model, with optional
Aluminium Shadow, Carbon leather, and a high-class wood option using
fine-grain plane wood finished in Anthracite. Each of these trim options gives
the interior of the Convertible its very special touch ranging from technical all
the way to sporting and elegant.
Unique: automatic air conditioning with a special convertible mode.
The new 2008 BMW M3 Convertible comes as standard with automatic air
conditioning. And in this case the temperature control features an additional
so-called convertible mode for use with the roof down. Once the driver has
opted for this mode, the flow of air and ventilation depends less on the current
temperature inside the car and more on the outside temperature and the
actual degree of sunshine.
Not only the air conditioning, but also the supply of fresh air when driving with
the roof down may be adjusted to different requirements. This is made
possible by the wind deflector offered as standard to reduce air swirl within the
interior also at high speeds. The wind deflector fits firmly in position
on side supports at the rear, and is then pulled up to provide its full effect.
Since the rotary button for the holding mechanism moves the attachment
points on both sides of the wind deflector, one person alone is able to fit the
deflector easily and safely into position either on the driver’s or the front
passenger’s side. And last but not least, the wind deflector panel covering the
rear seats may be tilted up at any time to take up bags, shopping and other
utensils whenever required.
Perfect visibility: bi-xenon headlights featured as standard,
Adaptive Headlights and High-Beam Assistant coming as an option.
Featuring bi-xenon dual headlights as standard, the 2008 BMW M3 Convertible
ensures perfect illumination of the road in the dark. The headlights come with
corona rings typical of BMW to provide an appropriate daytime driving
function. When activating the daytime lights, two light rings come on in each
of the two headlight units, giving the car a striking look not only in the
interest of better visibility, but also to create a clear sign of identification
specific to the brand.
The new 2008 BMW M3 Convertible is available as an option with Adaptive
Headlights guaranteeing appropriate illumination of the road ahead
in accordance with any bends or winding roads the driver may be taking.
The direction of rotation of the headlights depends on the current steering
lock, the yaw rate and the road speed of the car.
Another feature included in this option is the Bending Lights activated at a
speed of up to 40 km/h or 25 mph as soon as the driver operates the direction
indicator or turns the steering wheel firmly in one or the other direction.
These Bending Lights ensure optimum illumination of the road ahead when
manoeuvring and in tight serpentines.
The High-Beam Assistant also available as an option ensures additional
comfort when driving at night. The system switches back automatically
to the low beam once vehicles coming in the opposite direction are in sight
or the distance to a vehicle driving ahead drops below a certain limit.
iDrive control with eight favourite buttons.
BMW iDrive control complete with the Controller positioned on the centre
console serves to mastermind the air conditioning, communication, navigation
and entertainment functions. The control display arranged at eye level in
the middle of the instrument panel then presents the status of the functions
chosen, together with further options in the respective menu or, whenever
required, the graphic map displayed by the optional navigation system.
BMW iDrive also serves to configure the settings on the optional MDrive
control system.
To simplify operation of iDrive control to an even higher standard, the driver is
able to use eight personalised favourite buttons. So just by pressing one
button, he is able to retrieve telephone numbers he dials particularly often,
a regular destination, or his favourite radio station.
Various navigation systems, the mobile BMW Online internet portal, and the
BMW Assist telematics service are all available as options. On cars fitted
with a navigation system including a preparation kit for a mobile phone and a
Bluetooth interface, the driver may use BMW TeleServices free of charge.
The range of functions offered in this way extend from the Automatic
Teleservice Call via the Manual Teleservice Call all the way to BMW Teleservice
Diagnosis including Teleservice Help. To make a Teleservice call, the car
independently – using the CBS Condition Based Service function as an onboard
diagnostic system – determines the type of service required next
and when it is needed.
To determine the next visit to a workshop, the new 2008 BMW M3 Convertible is
able to transmit data on engine oil, brake fluid, brake discs and pads as well as
other parts and components subject to wear and tear through a telephone
line to the driver’s BMW Service Partner.
In the event of an electronic deficiency or malfunction, BMW Teleservice
Diagnosis serves to transmit any defect codes to BMW Breakdown
Assistance. And if it is possible to remedy the cause of the defect by re-setting
the software on the appropriate control unit, the command required for this
purpose may be sent directly to the car from the BMW Breakdown Assistance
Centre.
BMW Individual High End Audio System for perfect sound quality.
The new 2008 BMW M3 Convertible comes as standard with a high-class audio
system. The CD drive included in this audio system is also able to play music
files in MP3 format. As an option supplementing the AUX-in plug featured
as standard, the driver has the choice of a USB interface serving to integrate
various external MP3 players or other data media such as a conventional USB
stick into the car’s audio system.
As a further option the new 2008 BMW M3 Convertible may also be equipped with
the BMW Individual High End Audio System developed by BMW M GmbH
and tailored exclusively to this very special model. In this case 16 highperformance
loudspeakers with neodym magnetic drive and extremely stiff
Hexacone membranes, a digital nine-channel amplifier with maximum output
of 825 Watt, and extra-precise frequency switches guarantee unparalleled
quality of sound.
Another feature quite unique in the world of motoring is Dirac Live technology
for processing sound signals, correcting the loudspeaker pulse and
thus ensuring linear playback of all sounds within the car in perfect time
synchronisation.
The quality of sound ensured in this way, the unique playback and rendition of
even the most exquisite and intricate sounds, will thrill not only the driver,
but rather all occupants in the new 2008 BMW M3 Convertible, offering them all an
exceptional experience in dynamic sound with all its facets.
Speed-related volume control and speed-related equalising also help
to ensure an optimum experience in sound in all situations and under all
conditions.
The BMW Individual High End Audio System is masterminded by the iDrive
Controller, with its main functions being controlled via the audio control units
on the centre console.
The 2008 BMW M3 Convertible: supreme performance is the objective,
sheer driving pleasure is the result.
The 2008 BMW M3 Convertible offers many new opportunities to experience
supreme performance and enjoy equally supreme freedom. And in all cases it
is the driver’s choice to enjoy particular options and emotions at the wheel.
For the 2008 BMW M3 Convertible offers power reserves the driver will use in full
only very rarely – power reserves of the same unique calibre as in the two other
versions of the BMW M3 – but wonderful to have and savour whenever you
wish.
A wide range of options in configuring the driving dynamics and driver
assistance systems enables the driver also of the open-air BMW M3 to enjoy
all his preferences in practice and in every respect. And thanks to its
retractable hardtop, the 2008 BMW M3 Convertible offers an additional, truly unique
option: With the roof closed, this new model provides the unrestricted
comfort and style of a genuine coupe. With the roof open, the driver and his
passengers enjoy equally unrestricted freedom with an incomparable
feeling of the sun and wind around them. So there is no need for
compromises, regardless of the roof’s position.
Like its Coupe and Saloon counterparts, the 2008 BMW M3 Convertible offers
truly unique style and character. It is indeed the unique qualities of the car that
give this third model in the M3 range its fascinating, individual aura,
while nevertheless retaining the core qualities and features of the BMW M3:
Technology derived from motorsport ensures superior performance at all
times and, as a result, a unique driving experience on the road. First and
foremost, therefore, the Convertible remains a fully-fledged BMW M3 – a highperformance
car able to offer the driver a truly supreme and dynamic driving
experience day in and day out.
Even though the full power and performance of the BMW M3 can only be
used on the race track, the car’s impressive supremacy also in city traffic and
on country roads ensures sheer driving pleasure in a particularly fascinating
rendition. And even that is not all, for there are countless roads and routes the
world over which, while being thoroughly enjoyable in the BMW M3
Convertible with the roof closed, offer an even higher level of enjoyment and
satisfaction with the roof open in perfect convertible weather. So whoever
demands top performance and knows how to enjoy supreme pleasure in life
will be thrilled time and again by the new 2008 BMW M3 Convertible.