GRIN AND BAUR IT

Q: I’ve been looking for a convertible version of the E30 3-Series BMW and I’ve found that there seem to be two versions around. The one with the framed side windows and roll bar is badged as Baur and the other is the full convertible. I quite like the look of the Baur car – it’s a bit like the Stag and I assume it’s safer too – but is it a proper factory convertible or a dealer job or similar?

A: The Baur TC (Top Cabrio) was a proper production model but was made for BMW by coachbuilder Baur, like Karmann made the Beetle and Golf convertibles for VW. The Baur was the only open 3-Series until the factory-produced full convertible appeared in 1986 but remained an option.