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BMW 3-Series

BMW 320Cd Convertible

A diesel convertible? A rag-top launch in autumn? Has BMW gone mad? Or is the company trying to remind us that, in all the fuss surrounding its new 3-Series, the existing soft-top won't be replaced for a while yet?

By Mat Watson

October 2004

A diesel convertible? A rag-top launch in autumn? Has BMW gone mad? Or is the company trying to remind us that, in all the fuss surrounding its new 3-Series, the existing soft-top won't be replaced for a while yet?

Fitting an oil-burner in a car without the soundproofing that comes with a metal roof is a brave move. But BMW's accountants have decided that there is money to be made from a diesel cabriolet. So do their sums add up?

There's no doubt about what's powering the 320Cd at low speeds with the roof down. But head above 30mph and wind noise drowns out the rattle from the engine. With the hood in place, though, the 3-Series is as quiet as its tin-topped sibling, while performance is barely affected by the car's extra weight.

However, part of the fun of wind-in-the-hair motoring is being able to hear the exhaust note - and the 320Cd's is not great. Prices start at ΂£28,350, and for about ΂£1,000 more, you could be revelling in the aural delights of the six-cylinder 325Ci. So is there any point to this model? Yes, but only if your annual mileage is high, or you're a company driver who wants to enjoy alfresco motoring. Order now, and your car will be delivered in the spring. If you're a sun-loving accountant, it all makes sense...

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FIRST OPINION

    Fitting an oil-burning motor in a sporty cabriolet is an unusual idea. But with an impressive 44.8mpg and CO2 emissions of only 167g/km, the 320Cd Convertible may be the ideal solution for long-distance drivers or company car users. Unless you are in this category, you'd be better off with a petrol model instead.
 

AT A GLANCE

    Available to order now
    Sprints from 0-60mph in 9.7 seconds; top speed of 131mph
     

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