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BMW 3 Series Compact (E46, facelift 2001) 320td (150 Hp)
Overall Rating
BMW 3 Series:
The BMW 3 series is a line of compact executive cars manufactured by the German automaker BMW since May 1975. It is the successor to the 02 series and has been produced in seven generations.
The first generation of the 3 Series was only available as a 2-door saloon; the model range expanded to include a 4-door saloon, 2-door convertible, 2-door coupé, 5-door estate, 5-door liftback and 3-door hatchback body styles. Since 2013, the coupé and convertible models have been marketed as the 4 Series; these styles no longer being included in the 3 Series....(Read more on Wikipedia)
Compact (E46, facelift 2001) Overview:
BMW 3 Series (Compact (E46, facelift 2001)). With 330 Nm of torque, it offers ample pulling power. It has moderate fuel consumption (~7.6 l/100km). With a weight of 1470 kg, it falls in the mid‑range. Rear‑wheel drive offers dynamic handling and sporty feedback. Acceleration is good (0–100 km/h in 8.7 s). The top speed reaches 222 km/h. A compact car with a rear door that swings upward to provide access to the cargo area. Seating for 5 makes it ideal for daily use.
320td (150 Hp) Verdict:
Performance Verdict
Strong performance with excellent torque delivery, making it feel quicker than its numbers suggest.
Fuel Economy
Outstanding fuel efficiency for its power output, ideal for economical yet spirited driving.
Pros and Cons:
Pros:
- • Engaging driving dynamics and handling
- • Premium interior feel and build quality
- • Strong and efficient engine lineup (especially diesels and 325ti)
- • Practical hatchback design with good cargo space
- • Timeless BMW styling
Cons:
- • Limited rear passenger legroom
- • Firm ride can be uncomfortable on rough roads
- • Common E46 reliability issues (cooling system, subframe, VANOS)
- • Dated infotainment and technology
- • Higher running costs than some rivals
Specifications:
Specifications are compared to those of the previous generation(Touring (E46): 2000 - 2001).
| General: | |
|---|---|
| Brand: | BMW |
| Model: | 3 Series |
| Generation: | Compact (E46, facelift 2001) |
| Modification (Engine): | 320td (150 Hp) |
| Start of production: | 2001 |
| End of production: | 2005 |
| Powertrain Architecture: | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type: | Hatchback |
| Seats: | 5 |
| Doors: | 3 |
| Engine: | |
|---|---|
| Power: | 150 Hp @ 4000 rpm. Same horsepower |
| Power per litre: | 75.2 Hp/l [216mm less] |
| Torque: | 330 Nm @ 2000 rpm. |
| Engine Model/Code: | M47D20 More details about the engine M47D20 |
| Engine displacement: | 1995 |
| Number of cylinders: | 4 |
| Engine configuration: | Inline |
| Number of valves per cylinder: | 4 |
| Fuel injection system: | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration: | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain: | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity: | 5.5 l |
| Coolant: | 9.3 l |
| Engine layout: | Front, Longitudinal |
| Cylinder Bore: | 84 mm mm |
| Piston Stroke: | 90 mm mm |
| Compression ratio: | 17:1 |
| Performance: | |
|---|---|
| Fuel Type: | Diesel |
| Fuel consumption (economy) - urban: | 7.6 l/100 km |
| Fuel consumption (economy) - extra urban: | 4.4 l/100 km |
| Fuel consumption (economy) - combined: | 5.5 l/100 km |
| Acceleration 0 - 100 km/h: | 8.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 - 62 mph: | 8.7 sec |
| Maximum speed: | 222 km/h |
| Weight-to-power ratio: | 9.8 kg/Hp, 102 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio: | 4.5 kg/Nm, 224.5 Nm/tonne |
| Acceleration 0 - 60 mph: | 8.3 sec |
| Space: | |
|---|---|
| Kerb Weight: | 1470 |
| Max. weight: | 1895 |
| Max load: | 425 |
| Trunk (boot) space - maximum: | 1100 l |
| Trunk (boot) space - minimum: | 310 l |
| Fuel tank capacity: | 63 l |
| Size: | |
|---|---|
| Length: | 4262 mm mm [216mm less] |
| Width: | 1751 mm mm [12mm more] |
| Height: | 1408 mm mm [1mm less] |
| Wheelbase: | 2725 mm mm [Same wheelbase.] |
| Front track: | 1474 mm |
| Rear (Back) track: | 1483 mm |
| Powertrain: | |
|---|---|
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the rear wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 5 |
| Transmission type | Manual |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs [Best for performance and cooling.] |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 205/55 R16 |
| Wheel rims size | 7J x 16 |
| Front suspension | Wishbone |
| Rear suspension | Coil spring |
The hidden gems or the annoying flaws? Expose the truth about the BMW 3 Series!