Have an extra $64,950 laying around? If so, the new 2009 BMW M3 convertible may be the vehicle for you. This 4-seat hardtop will satisfy your need for the fresh outdoors. The M3 packs a massive 4.0L 32-valve 414-horsepower V8 engine with M-Double-VANOS "steplessly" variable valve timing and a 6-speed manual manual transmission with additional oil cooler and dual-disc clutch.
You'll be in full control of the car and its entirety with assistance from the DSC (dynamic stability control) and high performance anti-lock breaking system. The M3's signature feel is generated by the legendary M suspension that includes twin-joint spring-strut front axle, subframe, front axle tie-rod and stiffening plate in aluminum, rear axle subframe in steel, track control arm and spring strut in aluminum and lightweight steel construction.
Compared to the BMW M3 convertible, BMW's own 335i convertible starts with the $15k smaller price tag and a 3.0-Liter turbo-charged 300 horsepower 6-cylinder engine. The new generation of BMW's incorporates more sharp streaks and younger look. The plush interior is delicately covered in Novillo Leather upholstery with Sun-Reflective Technology to keep the leather in exemplary condition while you cruise with the top down. Cruise around at night with confidence when you switch on your Xenon Adaptive low and high-beam headlights with auto-leveling and Cornering Lights function. You can ride top down and tunes up with the included 10-speaker audio system and auxiliary input for your Apple iPod or Microsoft Zune. Safety is never an issue with BMW. The M3's sturdy frame create a safety-first ambiance that includes BMW's Advanced Safety System, Battery Safety Terminal and automatic fuel-cell cut-off.
The M3's main competition includes the Lexus IS F and Audi S4. While Lexus' IS F has the biggest engine displacement with 5.0L, it also comes with a hefty $56,000 starting price and no convertible option. Audi's S4 impresses with it's unique 4.2-liter 42-valve and $49,710 price, but stows a less powerful 340 horsepower engine (IS F - 416hp; M3 414 horse power. Gas mileage for the European sports cars stand at around 14city/21highway, while the Japanese vehicle boasts slightly improved measures of 16mpg city and 23mpg highway. Ultimately, the third body version of this legendary performance coupe has no competent rivals and continues the trend of greatness for the European auto company. The 2009 M3 convertible truly is the ultimate driving machine.