2006 BMW M3

Intro of 2006 BMW M3

Even though it's near the end of its production run based on the outgoing E46 3 Series, the 2006 BMW M3 is still a very desirable performance icon.

It may no longer be the most modern car in its class, but with its 3.2-liter, 333-horsepower engine, its sequential manual gearbox (SMG), and its well-appointed interior, it more than holds its own and has well-earned M-car cachet.

The 2006 BMW M3 does show its age in its somewhat dated cabin electronics: MP3 capability even for CDs is nil, and the navigation system, while useful, has fewer features than most newer systems. Sirius Satellite Radio is available as a dealer-installed option, though, and the car is prewired for Bluetooth compatibility.

While 300 pounds heavier than the coupe, the M3 convertible is still blisteringly quick and capable, delivering plenty of smooth, refined power. An excellent combination of sports handling and comfort contributes to the M3 being a race car of the road with real room for four. The undeniable sunny-day attraction of top-down motoring and the stress-reducing capability of the SMG to operate fully automatically in traffic if desired make the M3 convertible as fine a car for everyday use as it is for high-performance driving.

With an intuitive rollover-protection system and a range of other standard features, the latest M3 convertible is about as safe as soft-top sports cars can hope to be.

But like all BMWs, a 2006 BMW M3 doesn't come cheap: The convertible starts at $56,600. Our test car had the Cold Weather Package ($750); a Harman Kardon sound system ($675); a rudimentary nav system ($1,800); Michelin Pilot Sport tires ($1,750); and an SMG gearbox ($2,400). For power lumbar support in the front seats, add $400, and xenon headlights will set you back another $700. On top of that, factor in the $695 destination charge and a $1,300 gas-guzzler penalty, and the grand total comes to $67,070.