For so many years, the Porsche 911 Cabriolet has been the icon of sporty convertibles.
But this summer, for the first time there is a REAL challenger.
The new BMW M3 Convertible.
I caught my first glimpse of one in a dealer this weekend (see photos).
Whoa Nelly!
Shhweeet!!!
And it is not only sexy, it has the numbers and features to back it up.
Let's list where the new M3 gives the 911 Cab a beat down...
1. Tests show it BEAT the 911 Carrera S on the ring
2. It has fully retractable convertible hardtop
3. DSG tranny is an option
4. It has more interior room (especially in the rear seat)
5. Satellite radio is a factory option
6. The stereo actually sounds GOOD
7. Better storage space
8. Bluetooth is also available from the factory (and it's the best bluetooth integration yet from ANYONE)
9. Less expensive (But not much! $79G's for a 6-Speed! Phew!)
10. 4 year/50k scheduled maintenance included
11. More horsepower
Now for the 911 Attributes Over The BMW
1. Better on track heritage
2. Iconic design
3. Better fuel economy
4. Rear engine sound addictive with top down
5. Top is operable from the key fob (so you can put the top down as you walk toward the car
6. More customization from factory offered
7. AWD is an option
So if you go by the list the new M3 beats it handily.
But there are intangibles that will never be on a list like the way it handles or drives...both are outstanding but that can be a personal preference...as well as how you think it looks.
So rather than me picking the winner, what sporty drop top is the KING of Summer 2008?
Porsche 911 or BMW M3?
And enjoy the first pics of the 2008 BMW M3 spied at Century West BMW in L.A.