THE new 3 Series Convertible marks BMW’s first folding metal-roofed drop-top and uses a three-piece design to strike a fine balance between strict in-house design parameters and engineering capabilities. The result is a sleek sun-lover that looks almost identical to its Coupe sibling yet does not suffer from the ‘big bum’ syndrome. With much-needed revisions to the iDrive multi-function system for improved useability and the infamous run-flat tyres also receiving some much-needed ride compliance, the 3 Series Convertible is back to reclaim its throne as the most dynamic luxury four-seater convertible. Paired with the already-proven 225kW/400Nm 3.0-litre twin-turbo inline six as first seen in Coupe guise, the range-topping 335i has the right arsenal to conquer.

E46 330Ci convertible
Released: Sep 2000
Ended: March 2007
Family Tree: 3 SeriesWidely regarded as the real estate agent’s car of choice, the E46 330Ci Convertible was hugely successful over its seven-year lifespan. Power was courtesy of a DOHC 24-valve 3.0-litre inline six-cylinder engine with an early version of BMW’s VANOS variable valve timing system. It produced 170kW of power at 5900rpm and 300Nm at 3500rpm. The E46 also saw the introduction of a fully electronic drive-by-wire throttle. In March 2003, the car received a mild facelift including revised headlights and LED tail-lights, plus standard stability control.
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