The BMW M3 Convertible E93 broke tradition in 2008 by fitting an electro-hydraulic three-piece retractable hardtop and a bespoke 4.0-litre S65 naturally aspirated V8 delivering 420 hp at a dizzying 8,300 rpm. It offers a unique dual character: a quiet, secure coupé with the roof raised, and a howling open-top supercar when lowered. Dedicated BMW M3 maintenance is imperative to keep the high-strung V8 and sophisticated roof mechanics in peak operating order.
The motorsport-derived S65 engine shares its architecture with the S85 V10 and inherits the same Achilles’ heel: tight factory clearances mean the rod bearings experience accelerated wear and must be replaced preventatively around 100,000 km. Furthermore, the dual electronic throttle actuators suffer from stripped internal plastic gears and circuit board solder cracks, causing intermittent limp-mode warnings.