BMW M4 Convertible '30 Jahre Edition'

Yes, we really have had three decades of M3 drop-tops - BMW is in the mood to celebrate

It's fair to say that the convertible version of the BMW M3 has never been the choice of purists. Sure, you would receive greater aural access to a sensational engine, but that benefit was offset by the increased weight of the roof mechanism and the resultant dynamic squidgyness.

Nevertheless, 2018 marks 30 years of BMW selling to the world convertible versions of every M3 and M4 yet produced. Ergo like the saloon, it is drawing attention to the occasion with a 30 Jahre Edition. Like you all dressed up for your 30th birthday night out, it's fundamentally the same thing as everyone is used to, but more expensive and jazzier than usual.

Based on the M4 Convertible Competition Pack, the 30 Jahre has 450hp and therefore the same vital statistics: 4.5 seconds to 62mph, 155mph flat out, 406lb ft from 1,850rpm and a redline at 7,600rpm.

What's new for the 30 Jahre, then, is mostly cosmetic. Colour choice is limited to a pair of heritage colours, Macau Blue evoking the E30 and Mandarin II reminiscent of the E36's Dakar Yellow. The interior continues the colour scheme established outside, so perhaps yellow isn't the best idea after all.

'30 Jahre Edition' features on the headrests and the door sills, with a limited edition plaque - just 300 of these M4s will be made - emblazoned on the passenger side of the dash. Because limited editions must feature plaques, right?

There's no word yet on price or UK availability for the 30 Jahre yet, but we'll hope to update you with that information soon. It's probably worth bearing in mind that the M3 equivalent of this car was £82,675 when it launched in 2016, so we would expect a similar premium for this M4; perhaps more so, in fact, because there were 500 M3s globally available. (Although if you missed the saloon, seven of the 30 UK cars are currently in the PH classifieds, starting at £64,990).

Finally, should the 30 Jahre be the car that's reminded you an M4 Convertible is what you really want, early cars are now available from £35k. Competition Pack cars begin at £45,000 and, for something really odd, this Comp Pack with a manual gearbox is £47,000...