Image 13 of 32 from BMW's V8 M3 Convertible

January 18, 2008 The letter M in the model designation of a BMW car has always meant something special, and the newly announced M3 Convertible is no exception – at its heart is a 309 kW 4.0-litre V8 engine, with a focussed sports suspension system and the choice of a six-speed manual or the new seven-speed M double-clutch transmission with Drivelogic to put the horses on the ground. Other manufacturers might create a sports model with a bigger motor and stiffer suspension but the M3 is completely reengineered – indeed, only the doors, three-piece steel roof, boot lid, windows and rear lights are interchangeable with other 3 Series Convertibles.