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BMW 3 Series Convertible (E46, facelift 2001) 320Cd (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)
Convertible (E46, facelift 2001) Overview:
BMW 3 Series (Convertible (E46, facelift 2001)). With 330 Nm of torque, it offers ample pulling power. It has moderate fuel consumption (~8.5 l/100km). With a weight of 1680 kg, it falls in the mid‑range. Rear‑wheel drive offers dynamic handling and sporty feedback. Acceleration is relatively slow (0–100 km/h in 9.7 s). The top speed reaches 211 km/h. A convertible car with a retractable roof, offering open-air driving experiences. Seating for 4 makes it ideal for daily use.
320Cd (150 Hp) Verdict:
Performance Verdict
The 150 Hp M47TUD20 diesel engine provides excellent torque, making it feel punchy in real-world driving. Acceleration is strong for a diesel, offering a different character than the petrol engines.
Fuel Economy
Outstanding fuel economy at 6.3 l/100 km combined, making it the most economical choice for long-distance driving.
Pros and Cons:
Pros:
- • Timeless and elegant design, especially with the roof down.
- • Engaging driving dynamics and excellent chassis balance.
- • Smooth and powerful inline-six petrol engines.
- • High-quality interior materials and build.
- • Practical four-seater convertible for its class.
Cons:
- • Potential for cooling system issues (water pump, expansion tank).
- • Rear subframe issues on some early models (less common on facelift convertibles, but worth noting for E46).
- • Fuel economy can be high on larger petrol engines, especially with automatics.
- • Convertible roof mechanism can be complex and expensive to repair if faulty.
- • Road noise can be noticeable at higher speeds compared to the coupe/saloon.
Specifications:
Specifications are compared to those of the previous generation(Convertible (E46): April, 2000 - August, 2000).
| General: | |
|---|---|
| Brand: | BMW |
| Model: | 3 Series |
| Generation: | Convertible (E46, facelift 2001) |
| Modification (Engine): | 320Cd (150 Hp) |
| Start of production: | April, 2005 |
| End of production: | November, 2006 |
| Powertrain Architecture: | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type: | Cabriolet |
| Seats: | 4 |
| Doors: | 2 |
| Engine: | |
|---|---|
| Power: | 150 Hp @ 4000 rpm. Same horsepower |
| Power per litre: | 75.2 Hp/l [Same length.] |
| 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: | SOHC |
| Engine oil capacity: | 5.5 l |
| Coolant: | 7 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: | 8.5 l/100 km |
| Fuel consumption (economy) - extra urban: | 5 l/100 km |
| Fuel consumption (economy) - combined: | 6.3 l/100 km |
| Acceleration 0 - 100 km/h: | 9.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 - 62 mph: | 9.7 sec |
| Maximum speed: | 211 km/h |
| Weight-to-power ratio: | 11.2 kg/Hp, 89.3 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio: | 5.1 kg/Nm, 196.4 Nm/tonne |
| Acceleration 0 - 60 mph: | 9.2 sec |
| Space: | |
|---|---|
| Kerb Weight: | 1680 |
| Max. weight: | 2025 |
| Max load: | 345 |
| Trunk (boot) space - maximum: | 300 l |
| Trunk (boot) space - minimum: | 260 l |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%): | 1600 kg |
| Fuel tank capacity: | 63 l |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes: | 720 kg |
| Permitted towbar download: | 75 kg |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (8%): | 1600 kg |
| Size: | |
|---|---|
| Length: | 4488 mm mm [Same length.] |
| Width: | 1757 mm mm [Same width.] |
| Height: | 1370 mm mm [2mm less] |
| Wheelbase: | 2725 mm mm [Same wheelbase.] |
| Front track: | 1471 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 | 6 |
| 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 |
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