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2004 BMW M3 SMG Convertible Road Test

A Straight-Razor on Wheels

Imagine a straight razor manufactured from surgical quality, high carbon steel. Visualize the skilled machining of its precision blade and the ergonomic contouring of its perfectly balanced, weighted handle milled from cold steel. Now feel how efficiently the finely honed edge of the blade follows the curves of your flesh while painlessly removing anything growing above its surface. With the confidence and skill of an old-world barber you effortlessly dance the blade over your skin with speed and accuracy. Never does the hardened razor slip from your steady hand or unexpectedly slit the vulnerable surface on which it glides. If this razor were a car, it would be a BMW M3.

I recently had the pleasure of dancing an M3 Cabriolet over the streets in and about my town and was awed by its capability for speed and accuracy. And like the imaginary razor, never did the M3 slip from my grasp or unexpectedly

Having spent a week with the BMW M3 Cabriolet, I was awed by its capability for speed and accuracy. (Photo: Rob Rothwell, American Auto Press)

slide upon the surface it traveled. My test unit was a sensational looking Titanium Silver soft-top version of the Bavarian supercar. And because I view the design of this lionhearted beast so favorably, please dont assume Ive jumped on the yuppie "Bimmer" bandwagon - I havent. My admiration of the bi-kidney grilled two-door is based on BMWs long history of designing vehicles exhibiting cutting-edge style, with or without the Bangle effect.

Proportionally, the BMW 3-Series is downright perfect. That sizing perfection is retained when the 3-Series roof is

My test unit was a sensational looking Titanium Silver soft-top version of the Bavarian supercar. (Photo: Rob Rothwell, American Auto Press)

dropped into its storage well by depressing a single console-mounted button. Once in place, a hard tonneau cover creates a beautiful and smooth exterior to interior transition.

The in-your-face front fascia, side cowling and massive 19-inch spoke rims, optional but fortunately included on my M test car, gave it a squat, powerful appearance that exceeded the already commanding visual character of the conventional 3-Series. An extra dose of M-coolness is delivered via the front fender vents, which have now become an M-car signature with the introduction of the new M5.

A close inspection of

The in-your-face front fascia, side cowling and massive 19-inch spoke rims, give the M3 a squat yet powerful appearance. (Photo: Rob Rothwell, American Auto Press)

the exterior body panels proves that BMW is "details driven" as always. All panels are accurately matched, spaced and aligned. Doors open and close with a solid "thunk" that foreshadows the brick-like solidity soon to accompany a run over the typically decayed inner streets of my city. Its this type of automotive fortitude and substance that imparts a wonderful sense of strength and quality to its occupants - and in the M3, BMW has nailed it. The German automaker has also nailed the fit and finish of the soft-top. It seals wonderfully and ensconces as warmly as a hardtop.

Its difficult for me not to sound overly gushy about the interior build quality of my open

The M3s front seats are more therapeutic than an endless tab with the best chiropractor in town. (Photo: Rob Rothwell, American Auto Press)

top tester. Copying the title of a great Jack Nicholson flick, "its as good as it gets." Of course given the M3s sticker shock, nothing less should be expected. Assembly of the many bits and pieces that make up one of the industries best interiors is tight and exact. I could live in this place. In fact I chose to remove my laptop from my home office and sit in the M3 to write this review - its interior environs are just that darn comfortable and splendid to look at. The M3s front seats are more therapeutic than an endless tab with the best chiropractor in town. Head and legroom up front is remarkable. However those in the rear may be pinched for both if their clothes hang on the "tall" rack at the local haberdashery.

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