E93 · 328i Convertible

What the E93 Chassis Is

The BMW E93 is the convertible member of BMW's fifth-generation 3 Series family, produced from 2007 through 2013. Unlike the soft-top convertibles that preceded it, the E93 introduced a three-piece retractable hardtop that folded neatly into the trunk, giving the car coupe-like refinement with the roof up and true open-air motoring with it down. It shares its architecture and much of its running gear with the E90 sedan and E92 coupe, but the added structural reinforcement needed for a topless body makes the E93 the heaviest of the bunch. If you're tracking down the specifics of a particular car, our VIN decoder breaks down exactly how each E93 left the factory.

The Models & Body Styles

The E93 was offered in the United States exclusively as a two-door convertible across five configurations:

• 328i Convertible — the naturally aspirated entry point
• 328i Convertible SULEV — a Super Ultra Low Emission Vehicle variant for certain states
• 335i Convertible — the turbocharged performance model
• 335is Convertible — an uprated, higher-output send-off variant
• M3 Convertible — the V8-powered flagship

Engines & Drivetrains

The 328i models used BMW's smooth naturally aspirated inline-six, delivering easygoing power well suited to relaxed cruising. The 335i introduced BMW's landmark twin-turbo N54 inline-six, later replaced by the single-turbo N55, both of which offered strong midrange torque and tremendous tuning headroom. The 335is combined the twin-turbo six with an overboost function and additional cooling for a spirited farewell edition. At the top of the range, the M3 Convertible used the high-revving S65 4.0-liter V8, a motorsport-derived engine that remains one of BMW's most celebrated. To understand how these powertrains fit into the brand's broader lineage, see our BMW DNA overview.

Owning & Buying an E93

The E93's folding hardtop is its signature feature and its main point of caution: the electro-hydraulic mechanism is complex, and buyers should verify smooth, complete cycling before purchasing. Turbocharged 335i cars from this era reward careful maintenance, and enthusiasts should budget for eventual attention to fuel and ignition components. The added weight over the E92 coupe softens the driving edge slightly, but the trade-off is a genuinely usable four-season convertible.

Strengths and Weak Points

• Strengths: refined hardtop mechanism, strong turbo and V8 options, everyday usability, and classic 3 Series balance
• Weak points: heaviest of the E9x cars, complex roof hardware, and higher upkeep on forced-induction models

Shoppers cross-shopping BMW's convertible offerings of the era may also consider the larger E64 6 Series Convertible, with its related E63 coupe sibling, for a grand-touring alternative to the sportier E93.