The base 3.0i roadster uses BMW's superb 3.0L DOHC inline six-cylinder engine. It has four valves per cylinder, dual intake tracks, and steplessly variable intake and exhaust-valve timing to effect 215 horsepower. The 3.0si coupe and roadster use a version of the same engine, with three-stage intake, to produce 255 horsepower. All of these models match their engines to slick shifting six-speed transmissions, and six-speed autos with paddles mounted on the steering wheel are optional.
Standard features on the 3.0i roadster include dynamic stability control, traction control, 17-inch alloy wheels, anti-lock brakes, automatic headlights, fog lights, power heated mirrors, rain-sensing wipers, and air conditioning. The 3.0si adds dual exhaust, leather seat trim, an on-board computer, automatic climate control, an upgraded audio system with Carver technology and two subwoofers, and aluminum interior trim.
The M roadster and coupe step up to a 3.2L inline six that generates an eye-popping 330 horsepower. With a curb weight of 3,230 pounds, the M coupe only needs a reported 5.0 seconds to reach 60 mph from a standstill.
In addition to the stellar powerplant, the M cars have a host of performance upgrades, including a variable differential lock, stiffer stabilizer bars, larger wheels, better brakes, exhaust tweaks, and dynamic driving control. Xenon headlights, beefier seat bolsters, and a go-fast steering wheel are all part of the package as well. The M roadster has an automatic soft top versus the standard manual top on the other roadsters.
A Premium Package is available on all models, and it adds auto-dimming interior and exterior mirrors, power seats with driver position memory, extra storage features, Bluetooth, and a four-year subscription to BMW Assist. On the 3.0i it also adds automatic climate control, while the 3.0si gets xenon headlights.
Other notable options include high definition radio, heated seats, a navigation system, and wood interior trim. A Sport Package is available on the 3.0si. It includes 18-inch alloys, lo-profile performance tires, a lowered ride height courtesy of a tuned suspension, and dynamic driving control.