DRIVERS LOG.(NEWS)

GRITZINGER: Tune an already superb 3-series chassis to M level, add a 414-hp V8 heart stopper tied to a supermanageable seven-speed dual-clutch transmission, toss in a spectacular interior, and what could possibly be missing? Maybe a hardtop convertible roof? Got it. This car seemingly has everything. OK, so you're saying at $78,000, it ought to have everything including the kitchen sink, and it's hard to disagree. But for BMW buyers who don't need the M5's bigger cabin, it's hard to argue with the M3's dynamic abilities, pure power and fun-to-run value. Drop the top, drop the hammer, and drop your cares on the pavement receding in the rearview mirror.

Some might argue for a manual, but I'm coming to terms with BMW's dual-clutch box. If you're looking for smooth starts and relatively smooth shifts, dial the transmission's controller down (if you're at a stop, it shifts from first to second when you dial it down for smoother takeoffs). For spirited driving, punch up the trans action, or take over shifting with the steering-wheel paddles. It's the best of both worldsthe solid connection of a clutch-actuated manual gearbox with the real-world ease of an automatic when you want it. You might wish for the control that a foot-operated clutch gives, but you won't miss that third pedal when you're fighting traffic.

MORRISON: I would not opt for the convertible, as the car is still plagued by the shakiness of the standard 3-series drop-top. Plus, while the folding hardtop looks better than a cloth roof, the car loses its badass profile. And look at that curb weight! This weighs almost as much as a Mer-cedes SL. It's a good thing the engine is so potent and the chassis so well sorted, but that number is insane for what is intended to be one of the world's most nimble corner carvers.

The real story here, though, is the dual-clutch gearbox. Compared with the steaming disaster known as SMG in the old M3, this may as well be alien technology from Nebulon 12. With the shift speed dialed to the max and a heavy foot, the ...