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Image credits: BMW
The BMW 3 Series convertible is an automobile for individualists - for people who love open-air driving and want to set themselves apart from the crowd, but who have no inclination to give up everyday practicality. Now, there is a new BMW convertible that further heightens the pleasure of top-down driving and offers even greater esthetic distinction. It is the BMW convertible as interpreted by BMW M: the new, unique M3 convertible.
Like its predecessors, of which some 13,000 examples were built in two generations, the new 3rd-generation M3 convertible radiates its own presence like no other automobile in the world. As a new variation on the already successful E46 3 Series convertible, this sporting four-seater with fully automatic soft top makes its debut in spring 2001, rounding out the M3 line. It is the only truly high-performance, full four-seater convertible in its market segment.
Though identical with the M3 coupe from front end to A-pillar, this is a car with its own identity. Its rising beltline and typical BMW convertible proportions impart a visually lower stance and even stronger esthetic character than the M3 coupe, whose muscularity is already quite impressive. The convertible's length and width are identical with those of the coupe; its height (with the top up) is 0.6 in. lower.
Of course the M3 convertible shares with its coupe stablemate all the typical M qualities, from the new high-rpm, 333-hp engine through the skillfully calibrated M sport suspension and upgraded brakes to the design elements one expects of a thoroughbred M Car.
In the convertible's cabin, convertible-specific features add esthetic and functional appeal. Power front sport seats, for example, are standard in the convertible (they are optional in the coupe); they incorporate seat-integrated safety belts and a power easy-entry feature to make entering and exiting the rear seats especially convenient. The new M sport seats, with their adjustable backrest side bolsters, are available optionally. Details like these give the new M3 convertible an even higher-caliber, more luxurious interior than that of its predecessor. (The previous M3 convertible was available through 1999.)
Shared with 'regular' 3 Series convertibles is the thoughtful variable soft top compartment, which accommodates the folded top but allows increased cargo capacity when the top is raised. Conveniently positioned for raised or folded top via a lever in the trunk, this compartment increases trunk space significantly over that available when the top is folded.
The M3 convertible's soft top is lined (for interior quietness and weather insulation), equipped with a heated glass rear window, and fully automatic. From unlatching at the windshield header, to lowering the side windows slightly, to raising its rigid magnesium cover and then closing it, the top lowers completely at the push of a button - quickly and quietly. It can even be lowered from the remote control. And of course raising it is just as easy. For top-down driving, a wind deflector is available. For long winters, BMW offers a removable hardtop crafted of aluminum, and a roof-rack carrier system for the hardtop is also available. An available Cold Weather Package includes a trunk-to-interior ski bag.
Thoroughbred sports-car performance
With this new engine and the also new 6-speed transmission, the M3 convertible achieves true sports-car performance. Factory data for the European version indicate acceleration from zero to 100 km/h (62 mph) in around 5 sec.; 80-120 km/h (50-75 mph) in 4th gear takes just 5.9 sec., indicating that this engine delivers not just brilliant performance through the gears, but also usable response at everyday driving speeds. Top speed is electronically controlled to 155 mph.
With this new M3 convertible, BMW M has created a four-seater sports car of extraordinary character and capabilities - one that is truly without direct competition.Source - BMW
Like its predecessors, of which some 13,000 examples were built in two generations, the new 3rd-generation M3 convertible radiates its own presence like no other automobile in the world. As a new variation on the already successful E46 3 Series convertible, this sporting four-seater with fully automatic soft top makes its debut in spring 2001, rounding out the M3 line. It is the only truly high-performance, full four-seater convertible in its market segment.
Though identical with the M3 coupe from front end to A-pillar, this is a car with its own identity. Its rising beltline and typical BMW convertible proportions impart a visually lower stance and even stronger esthetic character than the M3 coupe, whose muscularity is already quite impressive. The convertible's length and width are identical with those of the coupe; its height (with the top up) is 0.6 in. lower.
Of course the M3 convertible shares with its coupe stablemate all the typical M qualities, from the new high-rpm, 333-hp engine through the skillfully calibrated M sport suspension and upgraded brakes to the design elements one expects of a thoroughbred M Car.
In the convertible's cabin, convertible-specific features add esthetic and functional appeal. Power front sport seats, for example, are standard in the convertible (they are optional in the coupe); they incorporate seat-integrated safety belts and a power easy-entry feature to make entering and exiting the rear seats especially convenient. The new M sport seats, with their adjustable backrest side bolsters, are available optionally. Details like these give the new M3 convertible an even higher-caliber, more luxurious interior than that of its predecessor. (The previous M3 convertible was available through 1999.)
Shared with 'regular' 3 Series convertibles is the thoughtful variable soft top compartment, which accommodates the folded top but allows increased cargo capacity when the top is raised. Conveniently positioned for raised or folded top via a lever in the trunk, this compartment increases trunk space significantly over that available when the top is folded.
The M3 convertible's soft top is lined (for interior quietness and weather insulation), equipped with a heated glass rear window, and fully automatic. From unlatching at the windshield header, to lowering the side windows slightly, to raising its rigid magnesium cover and then closing it, the top lowers completely at the push of a button - quickly and quietly. It can even be lowered from the remote control. And of course raising it is just as easy. For top-down driving, a wind deflector is available. For long winters, BMW offers a removable hardtop crafted of aluminum, and a roof-rack carrier system for the hardtop is also available. An available Cold Weather Package includes a trunk-to-interior ski bag.
Thoroughbred sports-car performance
With this new engine and the also new 6-speed transmission, the M3 convertible achieves true sports-car performance. Factory data for the European version indicate acceleration from zero to 100 km/h (62 mph) in around 5 sec.; 80-120 km/h (50-75 mph) in 4th gear takes just 5.9 sec., indicating that this engine delivers not just brilliant performance through the gears, but also usable response at everyday driving speeds. Top speed is electronically controlled to 155 mph.
With this new M3 convertible, BMW M has created a four-seater sports car of extraordinary character and capabilities - one that is truly without direct competition.Source - BMW
The BMW M3 is an extremely unique model that has lived up to its motorsport heritage. This has held true since the beginning of the M3's launch in 1986 all the way through to the 2007 version of the BMW M3.
Well known for its automobile performance, BMW offered a specific vehicle for the select crowd that wanted a vehicle more thrilling. BMW introduced an all new pure-bred sportscar in February of 2001, the M3 GR powered by a V8 engine. A small series was produced from the flexible production facilities of BMW Individual permit, along with road licensing. No comfort equipment was used in the creation of this vehicle by using carbon fiber body parts. The two-seater M3 GTR only weighed 1350 kilograms and was based on the prior generation of the 3 Series models.
The M3 featured a 4.0 liter V8 engine with a cylinder bank angle of 90 degrees. The road version of the BMW M3 generated more than 258 kW (350 hp). The road version was kept as technically close as possible to the racing version. The only differences was the dry sump lubrication, a 6-speed gearbox, the variable M differential lock, a two-disc sports clutch and the very light V8 engine.
The rear spoiler, the roof and the front and rear aprons were made of carbon fiber reinforced plastic that aided in reducing the weight of the M3, just like the race version. The aerodynamic body was enhanced by both the extended front and rear apron and the rear spoiler. The powerplant's thermal well-being was controlled by additional cooling slits in the bonnet.
Featuring a much lowered suspension and mass amounts of sporty suspension settings, the BMW M3 GTR has a compact V8 high-performance engine that allows for optimum weight distribution, along with 19-inch wheels that guarantees amazing handling properties. The base price for a 2001 BMW M3 GTR Street Version is approximately $250,000.
For the 2000 season the M3 coupe and convertible sat out before undergoing a refresh in the spring of 2001. Featuring 333-horsepower six –cylinder engines, the newest M3 now had 100 hp more than the regular 3 Series models. Unveiled in January 2001 at Detroit's North American International Auto Show, the M3 convertible followed the coupe that had debuted nine months earlier at the New York Auto Show. Priced at a whopping $45,970, according the BMW, the soft top M3 'is the only true high-performance full four-seat convertible in its market segment.'
Similar in appearance and dimensions to the regular BMW 330Ci coupe and convertible, the M editions carry very distinct differences that include a cross-hatch center air intake, elliptical fog lights and a new bumper and spoiler ensemble. Allowing for more space for the M engine below, a new aluminum hood has subtle ‘power dome' accenting. To accommodate the wide tires, the wheels openings are flared outward by an additional 20 millimeters. The side mirrors on the M series have a distinct aero shape while ‘gills' behind the front wheel openings display an M3 emblem.
At the rear is a subtle decklid spoiler that is above a special M bumper/apron design. The M3 models also feature a wider front and rear track than BMW models, along with a unique suspensions and underbody components.
Basically identical from the front end to the A-pillar, the third-generation M3 coupes and convertible featured a rising beltline that imparts a visually lower stance to the convertible. 54 inches tall, the M3 coupe measure 176.7 inches in length. The fabric top of the M3 folds into a variable stowage compartment which offers increased storage capacity when the top is raised. Satin chrome finished wheels are featured with 18-inch tires on both M3 models. In case a serious pressure loss occurs, a new tire-pressure control monitor alerts the driver.
The coupe and convertible both had room for four and featured black M cloth along with Nappa leather upholstery. The M3 coupe featured three types of sport seats, the standard 10-way manual, eight-way power in a Luxury Package or the unique new M sports seats as a separate option. The new M sports seats featured 14-way power adjustment along with adjustable backrest side bolsters. The M3 convertible featured standard power front seats; which was an easy-entry featured that made it easier to gain access to the backseat.
The M3 featured standard equipment that included power windows, power heated mirrors, remote keyless entry, automatic climate control. The convertible featured a heated glass rear window as a standard option along with a power-operated top. Only one button initiated the entire top-down operation from unlatching at the windshield header, to lowering the side windows slightly, to raising a rigid magnesium cover before closing it again. The convertible also featured a wind deflector along with a removable aluminum hardtop. Available options were an optional roof rack and BMW's Park Distance Control system, a navigation system and a moonroof for the M3 coupe.
The BMW M-edition received the all new 333-hp, 3.2 –liter inline –six cylinder with continuous variable valve timing. The engine in the M3 features 93 more hp than its M predecessor from the previous generation. A new Getrag six-speed-manual transmission is featured along with a new M Variable Differential Lock that enhances both handling and traction on slippery surfaces.
Dynamic Stability Control, BMW's electronic stability system, combined traction control along with cornering-stability enhancement. This was the first time this system was installed in an M3. The convertible was capable of reaching 0-60mph in 5.5 seconds. The M3 Coupe reached 60 mph in only 4.8 seconds. To aid the driver and keep from over-revving a cold engine, a warming zone on the tachometer changes as the engine warms up, until it reaches the full 8,000-rpm ‘redline' limit.
The BMW M3 featured dual front airbags, all-disc antilock brakes and seat-integrated side-impact airbags all as standard featured. In the event of an impending rollover, a Rollover Protection System in the convertible automatically deploys stabilizer bars behind the rear seats. Optional are rear-seat side-impact airbags along with daytime running lights.Elizabeth Johnson
Well known for its automobile performance, BMW offered a specific vehicle for the select crowd that wanted a vehicle more thrilling. BMW introduced an all new pure-bred sportscar in February of 2001, the M3 GR powered by a V8 engine. A small series was produced from the flexible production facilities of BMW Individual permit, along with road licensing. No comfort equipment was used in the creation of this vehicle by using carbon fiber body parts. The two-seater M3 GTR only weighed 1350 kilograms and was based on the prior generation of the 3 Series models.
The M3 featured a 4.0 liter V8 engine with a cylinder bank angle of 90 degrees. The road version of the BMW M3 generated more than 258 kW (350 hp). The road version was kept as technically close as possible to the racing version. The only differences was the dry sump lubrication, a 6-speed gearbox, the variable M differential lock, a two-disc sports clutch and the very light V8 engine.
The rear spoiler, the roof and the front and rear aprons were made of carbon fiber reinforced plastic that aided in reducing the weight of the M3, just like the race version. The aerodynamic body was enhanced by both the extended front and rear apron and the rear spoiler. The powerplant's thermal well-being was controlled by additional cooling slits in the bonnet.
Featuring a much lowered suspension and mass amounts of sporty suspension settings, the BMW M3 GTR has a compact V8 high-performance engine that allows for optimum weight distribution, along with 19-inch wheels that guarantees amazing handling properties. The base price for a 2001 BMW M3 GTR Street Version is approximately $250,000.
For the 2000 season the M3 coupe and convertible sat out before undergoing a refresh in the spring of 2001. Featuring 333-horsepower six –cylinder engines, the newest M3 now had 100 hp more than the regular 3 Series models. Unveiled in January 2001 at Detroit's North American International Auto Show, the M3 convertible followed the coupe that had debuted nine months earlier at the New York Auto Show. Priced at a whopping $45,970, according the BMW, the soft top M3 'is the only true high-performance full four-seat convertible in its market segment.'
Similar in appearance and dimensions to the regular BMW 330Ci coupe and convertible, the M editions carry very distinct differences that include a cross-hatch center air intake, elliptical fog lights and a new bumper and spoiler ensemble. Allowing for more space for the M engine below, a new aluminum hood has subtle ‘power dome' accenting. To accommodate the wide tires, the wheels openings are flared outward by an additional 20 millimeters. The side mirrors on the M series have a distinct aero shape while ‘gills' behind the front wheel openings display an M3 emblem.
At the rear is a subtle decklid spoiler that is above a special M bumper/apron design. The M3 models also feature a wider front and rear track than BMW models, along with a unique suspensions and underbody components.
Basically identical from the front end to the A-pillar, the third-generation M3 coupes and convertible featured a rising beltline that imparts a visually lower stance to the convertible. 54 inches tall, the M3 coupe measure 176.7 inches in length. The fabric top of the M3 folds into a variable stowage compartment which offers increased storage capacity when the top is raised. Satin chrome finished wheels are featured with 18-inch tires on both M3 models. In case a serious pressure loss occurs, a new tire-pressure control monitor alerts the driver.
The coupe and convertible both had room for four and featured black M cloth along with Nappa leather upholstery. The M3 coupe featured three types of sport seats, the standard 10-way manual, eight-way power in a Luxury Package or the unique new M sports seats as a separate option. The new M sports seats featured 14-way power adjustment along with adjustable backrest side bolsters. The M3 convertible featured standard power front seats; which was an easy-entry featured that made it easier to gain access to the backseat.
The M3 featured standard equipment that included power windows, power heated mirrors, remote keyless entry, automatic climate control. The convertible featured a heated glass rear window as a standard option along with a power-operated top. Only one button initiated the entire top-down operation from unlatching at the windshield header, to lowering the side windows slightly, to raising a rigid magnesium cover before closing it again. The convertible also featured a wind deflector along with a removable aluminum hardtop. Available options were an optional roof rack and BMW's Park Distance Control system, a navigation system and a moonroof for the M3 coupe.
The BMW M-edition received the all new 333-hp, 3.2 –liter inline –six cylinder with continuous variable valve timing. The engine in the M3 features 93 more hp than its M predecessor from the previous generation. A new Getrag six-speed-manual transmission is featured along with a new M Variable Differential Lock that enhances both handling and traction on slippery surfaces.
Dynamic Stability Control, BMW's electronic stability system, combined traction control along with cornering-stability enhancement. This was the first time this system was installed in an M3. The convertible was capable of reaching 0-60mph in 5.5 seconds. The M3 Coupe reached 60 mph in only 4.8 seconds. To aid the driver and keep from over-revving a cold engine, a warming zone on the tachometer changes as the engine warms up, until it reaches the full 8,000-rpm ‘redline' limit.
The BMW M3 featured dual front airbags, all-disc antilock brakes and seat-integrated side-impact airbags all as standard featured. In the event of an impending rollover, a Rollover Protection System in the convertible automatically deploys stabilizer bars behind the rear seats. Optional are rear-seat side-impact airbags along with daytime running lights.Elizabeth Johnson
2001 BMW M3 |
|
| Year | 2001 |
| Make | BMW |
| Model | M3 |
| Engine Location | Front |
| Drive Type | Rear Wheel |
| Production Years for Series | 2001 - |
| Weight | 3461 lbs | 1569.9 kg |
| Introduced At | 2000 Paris Motor Show |
| Performance | |
| 0-60 mph | 4.7 seconds. |
| Top Speed | 292 km/h | 181.5 mph Similar top speeds |
| Engine | |
| Engine Configuration | I |
| Cylinders | 6 |
| Aspiration/Induction | Normal |
| Displacement | 3.00 L | 183.1 cu in. | 3001 cc. |
| Horsepower | 225.00 BHP (165.6 KW) @ 5900.00 RPM |
| Torque | 214.00 Ft-Lbs (290.2 NM) @ 3500.00 RPM |
| HP to Weight Ratio | 15.4 LB / HP (Vehicles with similar ratio) |
| HP / Liter | 75.0 BHP / Liter |
| Vehicles with similar horsepower and weight | |
| Transmission Information | |
| Gears | 6 |
| Transmission | Manual |
| Final Drive | 3.620:1 |
| View Specifications |
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