To some enthusiasts, the idea of a performance convertible doesn't make sense. They will claim that cutting off the roof will reduce rigidity, add weight, and ultimately spoil the driving experience. But for someone who isn't looking to turn their M3 into a track car, the difference is hardly perceptible and the pros of top-down motoring, far outweigh any of the negatives. BMW has been producing convertible versions of the M3 since the original E30, and since the E36, they tend to outsell the coupe by a wide margin. It makes sense why, with the highly tuned, fantastic sounding M engines, what is better than putting the top and all four windows down on a nice day and enjoying the sound of 6 individual throttle bodies opening as you press the gas, and the corresponding bark from the exhaust behind you.

This 2004 BMW M3 Convertible is finished in Jet Black, which is paired with a stunning Cinamon tan leather interior and shows just 42,636 miles. Jet Black is a gorgeous, deep shade of black and when kept in great shape like is seen on this car, the visual impact is tremendous. Additionally, this M3 has been fitted with a set of 19” Competition wheels that tie the car together, giving it a particularly sporty appearance.

When buying a car with a convertible, the interior color selection is far more important than it is on a hardtop. When the top is down, the inside of the car is on full display so making sure to choose a shade that compliments the exterior is crucial. Thankfully, the original owner of this car knocked it out of the park with the choice of Cinamon leather. This shade of deep tan is one of the classiest-looking interior colors to ever come out of BMW and is highly sought after by collectors. The rest of the interior looks to have been kept in very good condition, with the M stitching on the steering wheel still maintaining its bright color and a new, upgraded center armrest that features stitching to match. This M3 was equipped from the factory with several ultra-desirable options including heated seats, and the upgraded Harman/Kardon premium sound system.

Up front sits the heart of the E46 M3, the S54 DOHC Inline-6, producing 333 horsepower and 269 lb-ft of torque. Thanks to the 6 individual throttle bodies, the E46 was lauded for its razor-sharp throttle response and unique, race car-like sound, as well as its ability to rev to 8,000 rpm. The introduction of the e46 M3 was also the introduction of the SMG automated manual gearbox to M cars in the United States- and many of the convertible buyers selected this transmission for easier two-pedal driving. Thankfully, that wasn't the case with this M3 which is equipped with the coveted 6-speed manual gearbox.

With the summer upon us, enjoying a top-down drive in a performance car is becoming all the more appealing. This E46 M3 would be the ideal car to do it in thanks to its outstanding color combination and desirable 6-speed manual gearbox.