The BMW M3 Convertible (E93 LCI), specifically the variant equipped with the 4.0-liter V8 engine (S65B40A) and the M Double Clutch Transmission (M DCT), represents a high-performance iteration of BMW’s iconic sports car. Produced from March 2010 to September 2013, the LCI (Life Cycle Impulse) facelift brought subtle styling revisions and refinements to the E93 M3. This particular configuration occupied the top echelon of the E93 M3 lineup, offering a compelling blend of open-air driving enjoyment and track-capable performance. It was positioned as the premium offering within the convertible range, surpassing the standard six-speed manual transmission models in both price and performance potential.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | BMW |
| Model | M3 |
| Generation | M3 Convertible (E93 LCI, facelift 2010) |
| Type (Engine) | 4.0 V8 (420 Hp) M DCT |
| Start of production | March, 2010 |
| End of production | September, 2013 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Cabriolet |
| Seats | 4 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban (NEDC) | 16 l/100 km (14.7 US mpg, 17.7 UK mpg, 6.3 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban (NEDC) | 8.9 l/100 km (26.4 US mpg, 31.7 UK mpg, 11.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined (NEDC) | 11.5 l/100 km (20.5 US mpg, 24.6 UK mpg, 8.7 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (NEDC) | 269 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 5.1 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 5.1 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 4.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 200 km/h | 17.3 sec |
| Maximum speed | 250 km/h (155.34 mph), Electronically limited |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 4.4 kg/Hp, 229.5 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.6 kg/Nm, 218.6 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 420 Hp @ 8300 rpm |
| Power per litre | 105 Hp/l |
| Torque | 400 Nm @ 3900 rpm (295.02 lb.-ft. @ 3900 rpm) |
| Maximum engine speed | 8400 rpm |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | S65B40A |
| Engine displacement | 3999 cm3 (244.03 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 8 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 92 mm (3.62 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 75.2 mm (2.96 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 12:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | Double-VANOS |
| Engine oil capacity | 8.8 l (9.3 US qt | 7.74 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 11.6 l (12.26 US qt | 10.21 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1830 kg (4034.46 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2280 kg (5026.54 lbs.) |
| Max load | 450 kg (992.08 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 210 l (7.42 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 350 l (12.36 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 63 l (16.64 US gal | 13.86 UK gal) |
| Length | 4615 mm (181.69 in.) |
| Width | 1804 mm (71.02 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 1976 mm (77.8 in.) |
| Height | 1392 mm (54.8 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2761 mm (108.7 in.) |
| Front track | 1540 mm (60.63 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1539 mm (60.59 in.) |
| Front overhang | 805 mm (31.69 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 1049 mm (41.3 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.32 |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 11.7 m (38.39 ft.) |
| Drive wheel | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 7 gears, automatic transmission M DCT |
| Front suspension | Spring Strut, Transverse stabilizer |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link spring suspension with stabilizer |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs, 360×30 mm |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs, 350×24 mm |
INTRODUCTION
The E93 M3 Convertible, launched in 2007, brought the high-revving, naturally aspirated V8 engine and performance-focused engineering of the E90 M3 sedan to the open-air segment. The 2010 LCI facelift refined the design with updated headlights, taillights, and front/rear bumpers. The 4.0-liter V8, designated S65B40A, was a significant departure from the inline-six engines traditionally found in M3s. Coupled with the optional seven-speed M Double Clutch Transmission (M DCT), this variant delivered exceptionally quick shifts and enhanced driving dynamics. The E93 M3 LCI served as a luxurious and capable performance convertible, appealing to enthusiasts seeking a thrilling driving experience without sacrificing comfort.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the E93 M3 LCI is the S65B40A 4.0-liter V8 engine. This engine is naturally aspirated, producing 420 horsepower at 8,300 rpm and 400 Nm (295 lb-ft) of torque at 3,900 rpm. It features individual throttle bodies for each cylinder, a high 12:1 compression ratio, and BMW’s Double-VANOS variable valve timing system for both intake and exhaust valves. The engine utilizes multi-port fuel injection. The M DCT transmission is a seven-speed dual-clutch automated manual transmission. It offers both fully automatic shifting and manual control via steering wheel-mounted paddles. The M DCT provides incredibly fast gear changes, contributing significantly to the car’s acceleration and overall performance. The transmission features a dedicated oil cooler to manage heat during spirited driving.
Driving Characteristics
The combination of the 420 hp V8 and the M DCT transmission results in exhilarating performance. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph takes approximately 4.9 seconds, and the car is electronically limited to a top speed of 155 mph. The M DCT transmission allows for precise control over gear selection, enabling the driver to optimize power delivery for various driving conditions. Compared to the six-speed manual version, the M DCT offers quicker acceleration and smoother shifts. While the manual transmission provides a more engaging driving experience for some, the M DCT’s speed and efficiency are undeniable. The car’s weight distribution is near perfect, contributing to balanced handling and predictable cornering behavior.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The E93 M3 Convertible LCI came standard with a comprehensive list of features, including leather upholstery, power-adjustable seats with memory function, automatic climate control, a premium sound system, and BMW’s iDrive infotainment system. Optional extras included features like heated seats, navigation, a head-up display, and carbon fiber interior trim. The convertible top was a fully automatic retractable hardtop, providing both open-air enjoyment and coupe-like security and refinement when closed. Specific trim packages, such as the Competition Package, further enhanced the car’s performance with stiffer suspension, revised steering tuning, and unique styling elements.
Chassis & Braking
The E93 M3 LCI features a reinforced chassis compared to the standard 3 Series Convertible, designed to handle the increased power and torque of the V8 engine. The suspension consists of a spring-strut front axle and an independent multi-link rear axle. The car is equipped with ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. The front brakes measure 360x30mm, while the rear brakes are 350x24mm. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) is standard. The steering is a hydraulic rack-and-pinion system, offering precise and responsive steering feel.
Market Reception & Comparison
The E93 M3 LCI was generally well-received by automotive critics, praised for its powerful engine, engaging handling, and luxurious interior. The M DCT transmission was a particular highlight, lauded for its speed and smoothness. Compared to the standard 3 Series Convertible, the M3 offered a significantly more focused driving experience. Compared to the manual transmission version, the M DCT variant commanded a higher price but offered superior performance. Fuel economy, while not a primary concern for M3 buyers, was reasonable for a high-performance V8, averaging around 20.5 mpg in combined driving.
Legacy
The E93 M3 LCI, particularly the 4.0 V8 M DCT variant, has become a sought-after modern classic. The S65 V8 engine is known for its reliability and durability, although regular maintenance is crucial. The M DCT transmission is also generally reliable, but can require expensive repairs if not properly maintained. Today, these cars hold their value well and are appreciated by enthusiasts for their combination of performance, luxury, and open-air driving enjoyment. The E93 M3 LCI represents a high point in BMW’s convertible history, offering a unique and rewarding driving experience that continues to appeal to enthusiasts today.
