Skip Channel4 main Navigation
Explore Channel4
Food
Homes
Film
4Car
News
See All

BMW 3 Series Convertible (1999-2006) Review

Category: Convertibles 3.5 out of 5

Summary of the BMW 3 Series Convertible (1999-2006)

Price Range: No data available

Assets

Solid, beautifully built, practical, great to drive, fine six-cylinder engines.

Drawbacks

Inconsistent accelerator response.

Verdict

One of the best convertibles of its time.

Review

Comfort and Equipment3 out of 5

The stiff body means the convertible shudders less over bumps than its predecessor, and it feels impressively all-of-a-piece for a roofless car, while still giving a smooth ride.

There's not much wind buffeting at speed as long as you keep the side windows up. It's possible to hold a conversation at speed with your passenger in the front, but not with rear-seat passengers, though the wind deflector does help. The seats are comfortable and supportive, just as they look. Air-conditioning and rain-sensitive wipers are standard, and the three-layer hood with its heated glass window is powered. It latches to the windscreen automatically.

The convertible is a full four-seater, albeit cosy in the back. When the hood is folded, it sits in a well which eats into boot space. But when the hood is up, this well can be collapsed upwards to make more luggage space. The same applies if you remove the hood completely and fit the optional hardtop. The front seats have electric adjustment, which works at double speed if you press a button, so that rear passengers don't have to wait so long before they can climb in.

Advertisement

Best Convertibles

alt text here
Winner:
Mini Convertible
First runner up:
Peugeot 207 CC
Second runner up:
Nissan Micra C+C

More on 4Car

4Car Navigation

Home

Search 4Car

Browse reviews

Research a Car

News & Features

Essential Tools

Games & Quizzes

Other Links