No problem, the good folks at M thought. They took the decision to transform an E30 3 Series convertible into an M3 pickup. This was a good decision.

Why the convertible 3 Series? Jakob Polschak, head of prototypes at M, said: “Firstly, we happened to have such a model at our disposal and in perfect condition. Secondly, the convertible’s built-in bracing made it the ideal choice for a pickup conversion.”

Because of the narrower body, the flared arches were canned, and it first came with a 192bhp 2.0-litre engine. Later on in its long, long life as a transporter, it was fitted with the more powerful 2.3-litre with 200bhp.