The BMW M3 Convertible (E93) with the 4.0-liter V8 engine, producing 420 horsepower, represents a high-performance iteration of BMW’s iconic sports car. Produced from June 2008 to February 2010, the E93 M3 Convertible combined the open-air driving experience of a cabriolet with the potent power of BMW’s naturally aspirated V8. It sat at the pinnacle of the E93 convertible range, offering a significant performance upgrade over the standard 3-Series convertibles. This model was part of the broader E90/E92/E93 M3 generation, which marked a departure from the inline-six engines traditionally associated with the M3 nameplate.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | BMW |
| Model | M3 |
| Generation | M3 Convertible (E93) |
| Type (Engine) | 4.0 V8 (420 Hp) |
| Start of production | June, 2008 |
| End of production | February, 2010 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Cabriolet |
| Seats | 4 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban (NEDC) | 18.7 l/100 km (12.6 US mpg, 15.1 UK mpg, 5.3 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban (NEDC) | 9.6 l/100 km (24.5 US mpg, 29.4 UK mpg, 10.4 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined (NEDC) | 12.9 l/100 km (18.2 US mpg, 21.9 UK mpg, 7.8 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (NEDC) | 309 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 5.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 5.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 200 km/h | 18.2 sec |
| Maximum speed | 250 km/h (155.34 mph), Electronically limited |
| Emission standard | Euro 4 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 4.3 kg/Hp, 232 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.5 kg/Nm, 221 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 420 Hp @ 8300 rpm |
| Power per litre | 105 Hp/l |
| Torque | 400 Nm @ 3900 rpm (295.02 lb.-ft. @ 3900 rpm) |
| Maximum engine speed | 8400 rpm |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | S65B40A |
| Engine displacement | 3999 cm3 (244.03 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 8 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 92 mm (3.62 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 75.2 mm (2.96 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 12:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | Double-VANOS |
| Engine oil capacity | 8.8 l (9.3 US qt | 7.74 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 11.4 l (12.05 US qt | 10.03 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1810 kg (3990.37 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2280 kg (5026.54 lbs.) |
| Max load | 470 kg (1036.17 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 210 l (7.42 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 350 l (12.36 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 63 l (16.64 US gal | 13.86 UK gal) |
| Length | 4615 mm (181.69 in.) |
| Width | 1804 mm (71.02 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 1976 mm (77.8 in.) |
| Height | 1392 mm (54.8 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2761 mm (108.7 in.) |
| Front track | 1540 mm (60.63 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1539 mm (60.59 in.) |
| Front overhang | 805 mm (31.69 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 1049 mm (41.3 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.32 |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.7 m (38.39 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the rear wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Spring Strut, Transverse stabilizer |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link spring suspension with stabilizer |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs, 360×30 mm |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs, 350×24 mm |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | Front wheel tires: 245/40 R18; 245/35 R19 Rear wheel tires: 265/40 R18; 265/35 R19 |
| Wheel rims size | Front wheel rims: 8.5J x 18; 8.5J x 19 Rear wheel rims: 9.5J x 18; 9.5J x 19 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the E93 M3 Convertible is the S65B40A 4.0-liter naturally aspirated V8 engine. This engine, a significant departure from the previous M3’s inline-six configuration, was designed to deliver high-revving performance and a distinctive exhaust note. It features individual throttle bodies, a high 12:1 compression ratio, and BMW’s Double-VANOS variable valve timing system for both intake and exhaust valves. The engine utilizes multi-port fuel injection. The S65 engine is known for its robust construction and ability to withstand high performance demands. The standard transmission was a 6-speed manual, providing precise gear changes and a direct connection to the engine. While a dual-clutch transmission (DCT) was available on other E9x M3 models, it was not offered with the convertible.
Driving Characteristics
The E93 M3 Convertible, even with the 420 hp V8, offered a slightly different driving experience compared to its coupe and sedan counterparts. The convertible body structure added weight, impacting handling agility to some degree. However, the V8 engine provided ample power and torque throughout the rev range, delivering exhilarating acceleration. The 0-60 mph sprint took approximately 5 seconds. The manual transmission’s gear ratios were well-matched to the engine’s power curve, allowing for strong acceleration in each gear. While not as track-focused as the coupe, the E93 M3 Convertible still provided a rewarding and engaging driving experience, particularly with the top down.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The M3 Convertible was generally well-equipped, even in its base form. Standard features included leather upholstery, power-adjustable seats, automatic climate control, and a premium sound system. Optional extras were plentiful, including navigation, upgraded audio systems, carbon fiber interior trim, and various driver assistance features. The convertible top was a power-operated retractable hardtop, providing both open-air enjoyment and security. Specific trim packages could add features like unique interior color schemes and exterior styling elements.
Chassis & Braking
The E93 M3 Convertible shared its chassis with the standard 3-Series Convertible, but it featured significant M-specific upgrades. These included reinforced chassis components, a wider track, and a more aggressive suspension setup. The front suspension utilized a spring strut design with a transverse stabilizer, while the rear suspension employed an independent multi-link setup, also with a stabilizer bar. Braking duties were handled by ventilated disc brakes at all four corners, providing ample stopping power. The E93 M3 Convertible came standard with ABS (Anti-lock braking system).
Market Reception & Comparison
The E93 M3 Convertible was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its powerful engine, engaging driving dynamics, and luxurious interior. However, some critics noted the added weight of the convertible body and its impact on handling precision compared to the coupe. Compared to other trims in the E93 lineup, the M3 Convertible represented the ultimate performance variant. It offered a significant power upgrade over the standard 3-Series convertibles, along with a more aggressive styling and a more focused driving experience. Fuel economy, as expected, was relatively low, averaging around 18.2 US mpg in combined driving.
Legacy
The E93 M3 Convertible, particularly the V8-powered version, has become a sought-after model among BMW enthusiasts. The S65 V8 engine is known for its reliability and durability, although regular maintenance is essential. The convertible top mechanism can require occasional attention, but overall, the E93 M3 Convertible has proven to be a relatively reliable performance car. In the used car market, prices for well-maintained examples have remained relatively strong, reflecting the car’s desirability and its status as a modern classic.
