Munich, Germany - There is something special about a roadster; you’re closer to the elements, the experience of speed is heightened and every sound the car makes is amplified.
It’s a more intense driving experience, which is why BMW’s M skunk works has been making topless cars since 1988, starting with the first M3 Convertible - because that’s how they feel about cars in general.
And now they’re celebrating 30 years of convertible M cars with the M4 Convertible Edition 30 Jahre, a limited-edition (just 300 will be made) special equipment model with the M Competition Package as standard.
That includes a three-litre turbopetrol six tweaked from the 317kW to 331kW, mated to either a six-speed manual or optional seven-speed M dual clutch transmission, an M Sport exhaust system, an active M differential, adaptive M suspension with an uprated Sport mode, a more performance-orientated version of the standard stability control system, and special 20 inch forged-alloy wheels in a star-spoke pattern, finished in a distinctive grey that only ever be offered on this model.
The commemorative convertible will be available in choice of two colours - a very dark metallic blue similar to that of the original 1988 M3 convertible, and Mandarin Yellow, reminiscent of Dakar Yellow, which was the signature colour of the second-generation M3 drop-top, introduced in 1994.
In each case the car comes with high gloss Shadow Line trims for the kidney grille surround, the M side gills, the model lettering and the wheels.
Each will be trimmed in full merino leather with carbon-fibre trim elements; blue cars will come in black with blue contrast stitching and a choice of either blue or pale grey insets, while yellow cars will be finished in plain black with yellow contrast stitching.
The lettering “30 Jahre Edition” will be embossed on the head restraints and sill plates, and each car will have a numbered plaque on the passenger’s side of the dashboard.
Sadly, none of the 300 cars have been allocated to South Africa.
Find a used BMW M4 in our Drive360 portal
IOL Motoring