First BMW M3 Convertible: The Iconic Coupe That Redefined Performance

In 1986, BMW introduced the first M3 Convertible, a groundbreaking fusion of speed, precision, and open-air thrill—setting a new standard for performance coupes that still resonates today.

Born from the E30 platform, the first BMW M3 Convertible was a bold evolution of the original M3’s track-focused identity. Designed for both circuit dominance and scenic drives, it combined a lightweight chassis with a powerful 3.0-liter inline-six engine, offering a rare blend of agility and raw horsepower in a convertible body that preserved the M3’s distinctive character.

Equipped with a 228-horsepower inline-six engine and rear-wheel drive, the first M3 Convertible delivered responsive handling and precise steering. Its aerodynamic profile, paired with adaptive suspension options, enhanced stability at high speeds while keeping the open-top experience exhilarating—making every drive a visceral connection between man and machine.

More than just a car, the first M3 Convertible became a benchmark for future M3 models and luxury sports convertibles. Its blend of track-ready performance, timeless design, and driver engagement cemented its place as a legendary icon, influencing automakers and enthusiasts alike for decades.

The first BMW M3 Convertible wasn’t just a vehicle—it was a vision brought to life. For collectors and drivers, it remains the ultimate symbol of BMW’s commitment to performance excellence. Experience the raw power and timeless elegance of the M3 Convertible—where every journey is an adventure.

The BMW M3 is a high-performance version of the BMW 3 Series, developed by BMW 's in-house motorsport division, BMW M GmbH. M3 models have been produced for every generation of 3 Series since the E30 M3 was introduced in 1986. The initial model was available in a coupé body style, with a convertible body style made available soon after.

M3 saloons were offered initially during the E36 (1994. From the first BMW M3 E30 convertible to the BMW M4 F83 - here comes an overview of all BMW M3 and M4 convertibles. What unites all the generations? They're powerful, fast and as convertibles open for anything.

Conceived to homologate a brand-new race car design, the first-ever M3 was also offered as a convertible, even though such a vehicle defied common sense. During the mid-1980s, BMW was heavily. The racing version of the first BMW M3 (born 1987) racked up a sensational string of successes on race circuits worldwide, the production version having already offered supreme driving pleasure on the road since its launch a year earlier.

In 1988, the Convertible went one step further by literally opening up the whole experience. A thoroughbred sports car in the light and airy form of a four. History of BMW M3 in Timeline The BMW M3 is a high-performance car based on the BMW 3 Series.

It's developed by BMW's motorsport division, BMW M GmbH. Since its introduction in 1986 with the E30 M3, a new M3 model has been released for each generation of the 3 Series. Following that initial production, which represented the very first generation of the BMW M3, combined production units grew to over 222,000, accounting for the second, third and fourth generations since 1992.

A sports car legend is an understatement. This car symbolized excellence, refinement and truly embodies ultimate driving experience. BMW M3 Generations A high-performance trend-setter, the M3 was developed by BMW M GmbH, BMW's in-house motorsports division.

After 2015, BMW discontinued the coupe and convertible, and the M3 was only available as a sedan, while the coupe and convertible were rebranded as part of the M4 line. The M3 has been a part of touring car and DTM races over the years, earning its reputation first as. The 1995 M3 coupe was the first M-car to be offered with a ZF five-speed automatic transmission, although the take rate was fairly low and eventually dropped.

A two-pedal option was always available in sedan and convertible body styles, and not surprisingly, the take rate was higher on those more luxury. This generation saw the arrival of a four-door family version (1983), the BMW 3-Series Convertible and the sporting BMW M3 (both 1985). Today the first BMW 3-Series Convertible is a prized "recent classic" among many fans of the brand.

A look back at the BMW M3 history through 2019 BMW E30 M3: 1986 - 1991 The first BMW M3 came only as a coupe or convertible, unlike the four-door models we see today. A 2.3-liter four-cylinder engine cranked out 192 horsepower in the first M3 models. By 1989, output had increased to 212 horsepower, accelerating to 60 mph at 6.5 seconds.

Flared wheel arches, sport suspension, and upgraded.