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2009 BMW 3-Series Convertible
At a Glance
| Pricing | $44,550 - $52,025 |
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| Drive Types | RWD |
| Engines | I6 (230-bhp), I6 T (300-bhp) |
| Transmissions | A6, M6 |
| Fuel Economy | 17-18 (city), 26-27 (highway) |
Our Ratings
| Velocity Index | 68 |
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The 3-series convertible joins the hardtop crowd
Overview Information
The BMW 3-Series convertible is a compelling choice for drivers looking for open-air motoring with the security of a retractable hardtop. Competition includes the convertible models of the Audi A4, Mercedes-Benz CLK, as well as the Volvo C70 and Saab 9-3. Available as a normally aspirated 3.0L inline-6 (328i) or as a twin-turbo variant (335i), the convertible retains most of the performance and handling of the coupe. Torsional and bending rigidity is surprisingly good for a convertible, but the 335i weighs in at nearly 2 tons, although the 328i is slightly lighter. Transmission choices are a 6-speed manual, or a Steptronic automatic with paddle shifters. BMW claims a 0-60 MPH time of 5.5 seconds for the 335i equipped with the 6-speed manual. The 328i with the manual transmission is slightly slower at 6.7 seconds to 60 MPH. A comprehensive set of active safety enhancements such as Dynamic Stability Control (DSC), Brake Fade Compensation, Brake Drying, and Cornering Brake Control ensure the best possible accidence avoidance capabilities. The Sport Package raises the top speed to 150 MPH. Options include 18-inch alloy wheels, sport suspension, power-folding mirrors, active cruise control, 12-way power driver's seat, GPS navigation, and a choice of wood or aluminum interior trim.
Official Word:
Few automobiles stir emotions quite like a convertible. Whether it's the feeling of freedom created by top-down driving or their seductive shapes, convertibles have long been regarded by many car enthusiasts and casual onlookers alike as providing a one-of-a-kind exhilarating driving experience. However, that experience can come at a price because a traditional fabric roof often does not provide sufficient chassis stiffness necessary for agile handling. Writing for Car and Driver.com, Dave Vanderwerp observed that the...Read.
| Model/Trim | Eng. | Trans. | Velocity Index | Base Price | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 328i | 3.0l I6 (230-bhp) | M6 | RWD | 65 | $44,550 |
| 328i | 3.0l I6 (230-bhp) | A6 | RWD | 61 | $45,875 |
| 335i | 3.0l I6 T (300-bhp) | M6 | RWD | 68 | $50,700 |
| 335i | 3.0l I6 T (300-bhp) | A6 | RWD | 64 | $52,025 |
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