2008 BMW 335i Cabriolet

The 2008 BMW 335i Cabriolet listed here is a low-mileage, imported example. First registered in 2009, it’s had one overseas owner and was re-registered in the UK in 2019. It has a valid MoT, some accompanying paperwork (for work done recently), shiny and almost ageless bodywork, and a graceful interior. From the design, there’s no hiding that it’s more than a decade old, but the overall condition suggests otherwise.

The E93 3 Series Cabriolet was launched under Chris Bangle’s design direction. While not designed by him per se, the philosophy of giving each model its unique appeal, especially in the design, is evident here. The individuality with the 3 Series was much more than both models in the past and even the recent ones. As a result of that, it doesn’t appear like a shrunken-down 5 Series.

In the 335i spec, powered by a 3-litre inline-six engine, the 3 Series Cabriolet is tantalisingly close to the M3, especially for everyday use. It’s a front-engined, rear-wheel-drive car, so while the added weight of the cabriolet does tend to take a slight toll on the dynamics, it’s still one of the most driver-focussed 3 Series versions you can lay your hands on, without having to opt for the highly focussed M3.

Apart from fewer doors, the coupe/convertible duo are separated from the 3 Series saloon and estate by restyled bits at the front and the rear. This makes sure these aren’t as common, although there’s not much to differentiate between the coupe and the convertible. The car’s metal roof deserves a mention, not just for the added protection it provides in comparison to a conventional soft top, but also for the kind of appearance it gives the car. It’s difficult (not impossible) to figure out if it’s a coupe or a convertible with the roof up — it’s that well-integrated, unlike a lot of CCs of the period. With the roof down, it does take up some boot space but lends the car an even cleaner appearance.

In terms of visual condition, it’s hard to say that this 335i is from the late noughties. There’s no remarkable deterioration on the bodywork, it’s not perfect, but it's broadly free from age-related marks. The front wheel arches have some minor paint damage; the nearside arch has some scratches, but nothing you wouldn't expect for this age/mileage. The wheels look great and the roof appears to be in excellent condition.

The interior of the 335i represents a generation of cars untouched by modern gimmicks like touchscreen and gesture control. There’s the marginally less user-friendly iDrive in place, and the dashboard is relatively fuss-free. The tan upholstery livens the cabin up while keeping at bay the overuse of buttons and bright materials on the dashboard itself.

Despite being a convertible, the BMW 3 Series Cabriolet can still accommodate four passengers in decent comfort. Understandably, the boot space is limited. BMW also fitted the convertible 3 Series with heat-reflective leather upholstery, which means the seats can remain slightly cooler even when driven under direct sunlight.

Talking of seats; there are some signs of ageing. The leather on the driver’s seat has wear marks. The roof lining looks good and the door cards are clean too, except that the left door card has some indentation marks.

Sat atop the standard 3 Series Cabriolet range was the 335i. It was powered by a 3-litre twin-turbo inline-six petrol engine, which, when new, made 302 bhp and about 295 lb.ft. That might not beat a V8-powered M3 but in overall pace, the 335i will come a close second. It takes a little under 6 seconds to hit 62 mph from a standstill, and with rear-wheel drive, it offers the kind of setup BMW purists and fans have loved always. The steel roof and its mechanism do add to the weight, but BMW engineered the coupe-convertible to retain the kind of chassis stiffness one would associate with a coupe.

With just 21,000+ miles on the clock, this E93 3 Series Cabriolet has hardly done any mileage. A quick look at the underbody photos (scroll right to the end of the photo gallery) and you’ll find that it’s absolutely clean underneath. So much so that it’ll be hard to guess its age once it’s been washed thoroughly. A part of that is also true because the engine undertray was replaced last year. More details on the recent repairs and MoT in the next section.

Registered first in 2009, this 2008 BMW 335i has had one former keeper overseas. Brought to the UK and registered in 2019, the car now has a valid MoT and has had recent routine maintenance & service work done.

The latest service was done at 19775 miles. Apart from the replacement of oil and filters, the work was extended to replacing solenoids, transmission fluids, injectors, brake pads and discs, rear shock absorbers, ignition coil, spark plugs, etc. A speedo conversion (from km/h to mph) was also done, along with allotment of a new service book and owner’s manual, according to the records. A full machine polish was also done, with paint correction and wheel touch-up. It has had an MoT test carried out recently, and it cleared without any advisories. It comes with two keys.

At an estimated value between £9,000 - £12,500, this is a low-mileage example of a superbly well-engineered car. Its value is further backed by its current condition, which is certainly going to be appreciated by enthusiasts looking to get a tidy convertible ahead of summer.

The steel roof makes the coupe-convertible a tad different from other choices on the market, especially in the way it looks. It’s also clearly specced by an enthusiast; while an auto, its twin-turbo inline-six engine packs in a lot of punch, rated at 300+ bhp; and the rear-wheel-drive setup stays true to BMW ethos. Considering the E90-series family was lauded by critics when new, you can expect this example to be a lot of fun, too.

Imagine driving on your favourite B road, relishing the six-cylinder symphony and the rich feel from its steering. See an imminent corner, go down a gear, let the front commit itself to a line, and power your way out. Now, that’s going to be nothing but blissful, and it’s possibly the primary reason why nice convertibles like the 335i Cabriolet are in demand.

Viewing is always encouraged, within Govt. guidelines of course, and as stated this car is located at our Abingdon headquarters; we are open Mon-Fri, 9am-5pm and to arrange an appointment please use the ‘Contact Seller’ button at the top of the listing to make an appointment. Feel free to ask any questions or make observations in the comments section below, or try our ‘Frequently Asked Questions’.