S4 convertible vs M3 convertible?
Discussion
ooh - difficult!
The M3 will be a bit quicker and perhaps a bit more engaging to drive, but then if you're buying a drop top you're probably happy to compromise on handling a little.
The S4 will be more sure-footed year round with the quattro gubbins and probably sounds nicer with the V8 soundtrack.
I think both could be criticised for looking a bit bling. And I doubt there's much in it when it comes to running costs.
So I think the S4 might just edge ahead for me.
Completely different story if we were talking tin-tops: e46 M3 every day.
The M3 will be a bit quicker and perhaps a bit more engaging to drive, but then if you're buying a drop top you're probably happy to compromise on handling a little.
The S4 will be more sure-footed year round with the quattro gubbins and probably sounds nicer with the V8 soundtrack.
I think both could be criticised for looking a bit bling. And I doubt there's much in it when it comes to running costs.
So I think the S4 might just edge ahead for me.
Completely different story if we were talking tin-tops: e46 M3 every day.
The Audi has a softtop the BMW a hard top.
Audi A4 has a big boot, even with the roof down.
BMW 3 has a tiny boot with the roof down.
Both will have a pleasant interior.
Both will drive well – BMW RWD goodness, AUDI 4wd fun.
I'd guess they will have similar running costs.
One is Red, one is blue.
Pick the colour you like best.
Is there a particular reason why a conv?
I have read numerous times that the e36 & e46 M3's and particularly the S4 & RS4 conv's are really poor compared with their coupe equivalents....
and i quote:
"despite the extra chassis strengthening, the Cabriolet can’t match the tin-top model on uneven roads. While it’s admirably stiff for a four-seater convertible, there are more shakes and vibrations – and the faster you go, the more obvious they become. Another area where the four-door scores over the convertible is in terms of practicality. Boot space is limited by the fabric hood, and the optional RS bucket seats only make a token effort to tilt forward, so rear access is limited."
Read more: http://www.autoexpress.co.uk/carreviews/firstdrive...
I have read numerous times that the e36 & e46 M3's and particularly the S4 & RS4 conv's are really poor compared with their coupe equivalents....
and i quote:
"despite the extra chassis strengthening, the Cabriolet can’t match the tin-top model on uneven roads. While it’s admirably stiff for a four-seater convertible, there are more shakes and vibrations – and the faster you go, the more obvious they become. Another area where the four-door scores over the convertible is in terms of practicality. Boot space is limited by the fabric hood, and the optional RS bucket seats only make a token effort to tilt forward, so rear access is limited."
Read more: http://www.autoexpress.co.uk/carreviews/firstdrive...
Chr1sch said:
Is there a particular reason why a conv?
I have read numerous times that the e36 & e46 M3's and particularly the S4 & RS4 conv's are really poor compared with their coupe equivalents....
and i quote:
"despite the extra chassis strengthening, the Cabriolet can’t match the tin-top model on uneven roads. While it’s admirably stiff for a four-seater convertible, there are more shakes and vibrations – and the faster you go, the more obvious they become. Another area where the four-door scores over the convertible is in terms of practicality. Boot space is limited by the fabric hood, and the optional RS bucket seats only make a token effort to tilt forward, so rear access is limited."
Read more: http://www.autoexpress.co.uk/carreviews/firstdrive...
Indeed, get a Z4M Roadster if you want convertible, or get the coupe if you need 4 seats. I have read numerous times that the e36 & e46 M3's and particularly the S4 & RS4 conv's are really poor compared with their coupe equivalents....
and i quote:
"despite the extra chassis strengthening, the Cabriolet can’t match the tin-top model on uneven roads. While it’s admirably stiff for a four-seater convertible, there are more shakes and vibrations – and the faster you go, the more obvious they become. Another area where the four-door scores over the convertible is in terms of practicality. Boot space is limited by the fabric hood, and the optional RS bucket seats only make a token effort to tilt forward, so rear access is limited."
Read more: http://www.autoexpress.co.uk/carreviews/firstdrive...
danyeates said:
Indeed, get a Z4M Roadster if you want convertible, or get the coupe if you need 4 seats.
Totally disagree with that sentiment.If you're looking for a track car then perhaps it's good advice.
But for a road car where you're going to be making good progress and enjoying the car then the difference in chassis/performance of the cabrio is more than offset by the extra driving pleasure afforded by having the roof down.
In a road car I'd much rather have the roof off than a slightly stiffer chassis or a few KG less weight.
Baryonyx said:
I've yet to see a four seater convertible look elegant, and as much as I love these performance cars I can't help but think that having a convertible misses the the point.
Without trying to start an argument – I fear you have missed the point of the four seat cabrio.Some people (eg. ME) like convertible cars.
We want the roof off, and it's not something we'll compromise on.
If we need 4 seats in a car then this doesn't change the fact we still want the roof off.
Yes, of course we'd (probably) prefer a Z4M or Lotus or Lamberarri Roadster.
But, we need four seats (and perhaps have a budget)– so we get a 4 seat cabrio.
Even when I had a 4 seat car and a 2 seat car, both were cabrios.
All I'm waiting for now is the 4 seat, 4 door cabrio – so it can be a sensible family car and still have the roof off.
If they put in a 3L twin turbo engine I'll be more than happy with that too.
(yes, I missed the MBW having a hard top stand, rather than a hard top. Sorry)
As for elegant 4 seat cabs.
The original Pug 306 Roadster was lovely.
I personally like the A4 and A5 cab and the 1 series cabs.
I don't like the A3 cab or the Golf cab though – or the megane or any new brand of Pugs.
I think it's to do with a saloon making a better cabrio than a hatchback.
Edited by Snowboy on Friday 30th September 11:54
Gassing Station | General Gassing | Top of Page | What's New | My Stuff