2008 BMW 650i Convertible: Topless Pleasure Part 1

Written by Brian Armstead, 02.25.08

It’s not often you can enjoy going topless in public without getting yourself into a heap of trouble. But you can drop the top on our newly acquired long-term 2008 BMW 650i Convertible and simply enjoy what’s best about the open-air motoring experience.

BMW, the German automaker with vehicles known for “The Ultimate Driving Experience,” has imbued the 650i with the same performance DNA. This is a large convertible when compared to others on the market like the Saturn Sky and Saab 9-3, but it handles like its smaller competition. Though the car weighs 4,277 pounds, it never felt cumbersome attacking my favorite backroads with its 4.8-liter DOHC V8. And you can bring along friends in this true, four-seat drop top.

BMW has infused the 650i’s interior with myriad creature comforts, including an advanced climate control system, stellar audio system and navigation system with real time traffic updates. The nav will calculate the fastest route to your destination, and then provide updates every few minutes should an accident or road construction slow you down.

The base price of the 2008 650i convertible is $82,700, with a $775 destination charge. Our Deep Sea Blue Metallic model retails for $98,970. The breakdown of the most costly options follows: Black Pearl Leather - $2,400 (save money here by going with the standard leather package); Premium Sound Package with iPod adapter and CD Changer - $2,000; Active Cruise Control (automatically regulates the distance between you and vehicles in front of you) $2,400; and Night Vision (uses a camera enhance nighttime vision) - $2,200.

We’ve already started our usual top-shelf, tasteful mods on the Bimmer. STRUT has provided their St. Tropez luxury grille collection and a set of killer Icon 20” chrome rims. The grille was installed by our man Kevin at the House of Dubs in Laurel, Maryland, and really sets the tone for the rest of or customizations. Once winter’s salty roads have been washed clean by springtime rains, we’ll install the wheels in time for the next issue.