Click on image to view the full photo gallery
BMW 3 Series Coupe (E46) 330Ci (231 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)
Coupe (E46) Overview:
BMW 3 Series (Coupe (E46)). With 300 Nm of torque, it offers ample pulling power. With a weight of 1400 kg, it falls in the mid‑range. Rear‑wheel drive offers dynamic handling and sporty feedback. Acceleration is good (0–100 km/h in 6.5 s). The top speed reaches 250 km/h. A two-door car with a fixed roof, known for its sporty design and dynamic performance. Seating for 5 makes it ideal for daily use.
330Ci (231 Hp) Verdict:
Performance Verdict
Outstanding performance, the most powerful non-M engine, offering thrilling acceleration and a fantastic exhaust note.
Fuel Economy
Decent fuel economy considering the power, but can be thirsty when driven hard.
Pros and Cons:
Pros:
- • Engaging driving dynamics and precise steering
- • Timeless and elegant design
- • Strong and refined inline-six engine lineup
- • High-quality interior materials and build
- • Excellent used car value for the driving experience
Cons:
- • Potential for common maintenance issues (cooling system, subframe, VANOS)
- • Firm ride on sport suspensions can be uncomfortable for some
- • Limited rear legroom, typical for a coupe
- • Older automatic transmissions can be less responsive
- • Rust can be an issue on neglected examples
Specifications:
Specifications are compared to those of the previous generation(Sedan (E46): 1999 - 2001).
| General: | |
|---|---|
| Brand: | BMW |
| Model: | 3 Series |
| Generation: | Coupe (E46) |
| Modification (Engine): | 330Ci (231 Hp) |
| Start of production: | 2000 |
| End of production: | 2003 |
| Powertrain Architecture: | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type: | Coupe |
| Seats: | 5 |
| Doors: | 2 |
| Engine: | |
|---|---|
| Power: | 231 Hp @ 5900 rpm. Same horsepower |
| Power per litre: | 77.5 Hp/l [17mm more] |
| Torque: | 300 Nm @ 3500 rpm. |
| Engine Model/Code: | M54B30 More details about the engine M54B30 |
| Engine displacement: | 2979 |
| Number of cylinders: | 6 |
| Engine configuration: | Inline |
| Number of valves per cylinder: | 4 |
| Fuel injection system: | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration: | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain: | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity: | 6.5 l |
| Coolant: | 8.4 l |
| Engine layout: | Front, Longitudinal |
| Cylinder Bore: | 84 mm |
| Piston Stroke: | 89.6 mm |
| Compression ratio: | 10.2:1 |
| Performance: | |
|---|---|
| Fuel Type: | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) - urban: | 12.8 l/100 km |
| Fuel consumption (economy) - extra urban: | 6.9 l/100 km |
| Fuel consumption (economy) - combined: | 9.1 l/100 km |
| Acceleration 0 - 100 km/h: | 6.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 - 62 mph: | 6.5 sec |
| Maximum speed: | 250 km/h |
| Weight-to-power ratio: | 6.1 kg/Hp, 165 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio: | 4.7 kg/Nm, 214.3 Nm/tonne |
| Acceleration 0 - 60 mph: | 6.2 sec |
| Space: | |
|---|---|
| Kerb Weight: | 1400 |
| Max. weight: | 1900 |
| Max load: | 500 |
| Trunk (boot) space - minimum: | 440 l |
| Fuel tank capacity: | 63 l |
| Size: | |
|---|---|
| Length: | 4488 mm [17mm more] |
| Width: | 1757 mm [18mm more] |
| Height: | 1369 mm [46mm less] |
| Wheelbase: | 2725 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 | 225/45 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 8J x 17 |
| Front suspension | Wishbone |
| Rear suspension | Coil spring |
Your first impression of the BMW 3 Series in one word? Go!