As anticipated, the new BMW M4 Convertible made an early debut ahead of its New York Auto Show world premiere on April 16. It comes with two less cylinders, but more power and less weight than the outgoing M3 Convertible.
Depending on whom you ask, the M4 Convertible weighs 90lbs (41kg / according to BMW USA) or 132lbs (60kg / according to BMW Global) less than its predecessor, at 4,055lbs (1,839kg / USA) or 3,858lbs (1,750kg / Global). In any case, it’s a lot heavier than the M4 Coupe that tips the scales at 1,497 kg or 3,300 lbs.
At least everyone seems to agree about the output numbers, with the drop-top M4 sharing the new M3 Sedan and M4 Coupe’s 3.0-liter turbo’d inline-six that delivers 425hp (431PS) from 5,500rpm to 7,300rpm, and peak torque of 550Nm (406 lb-ft) between 1,850rpm and 5,500rpm.
According to BMW USA, when linked to a six-speed manual gearbox (yes, it’s still around), the M4 Convertible does the 0-60mph (96km/h) in 4.4 seconds, while the time falls to 4.2 seconds with the 7-speed M Double Clutch Transmission. The 0-100km/h times are 4.6 seconds for the manual and 4.4 seconds for the DCT model. Top speed is electronically limited to 155 mph, regardless of transmission choice.
As with the other 4-Series Convertibles models, there’s a three-section folding metal roof that opens at the touch of a button in under 20 seconds, while travelling at speeds of up to 11mph (18km/h), if necessary. Boot capacity stands at 220 liters (7.8 cu.ft.) with the roof open, increasing to 370 liters (13.06 cu.ft.) when the hardtop is closed.
Stateside, sales will begin this summer with pricing to be announced, while in the UK, it will arrive on September 6 priced at £60,730 OTR, or £4,095 more than the M4 Coupe (£56,635).
By John Halas
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