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BMW 3 Series Compact (E46, facelift 2001) 316i (116 Hp) Steptronic
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 175 Nm of torque, it offers ample pulling power. It has moderate fuel consumption (~10.7 l/100km). With a weight of 1300 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 11.9 s). The top speed reaches 196 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.
316i (116 Hp) Steptronic Verdict:
Performance Verdict
Entry-level performance, somewhat sluggish with the automatic transmission.
Fuel Economy
Acceptable fuel economy for an automatic petrol, but not a standout feature.
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(Sedan (E46): 2000 - 2001).
| General: | |
|---|---|
| Brand: | BMW |
| Model: | 3 Series |
| Generation: | Compact (E46, facelift 2001) |
| Modification (Engine): | 316i (116 Hp) Steptronic |
| Start of production: | 2001 |
| End of production: | 2005 |
| Powertrain Architecture: | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type: | Hatchback |
| Seats: | 5 |
| Doors: | 3 |
| Engine: | |
|---|---|
| Power: | 116 Hp @ 5500 rpm. Same horsepower |
| Power per litre: | 64.6 Hp/l [209mm less] |
| Torque: | 175 Nm @ 3750 rpm. |
| Engine Model/Code: | N42B18 More details about the engine N42B18 |
| Engine displacement: | 1796 |
| Number of cylinders: | 4 |
| 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: | 4.25 l |
| Coolant: | 7.5 l |
| Engine layout: | Front, Longitudinal |
| Cylinder Bore: | 84 mm |
| Piston Stroke: | 81 mm |
| Compression ratio: | 10.5:1 |
| Performance: | |
|---|---|
| Fuel Type: | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) - urban: | 10.7 l/100 km |
| Fuel consumption (economy) - extra urban: | 6 l/100 km |
| Fuel consumption (economy) - combined: | 7.6 l/100 km |
| Acceleration 0 - 100 km/h: | 11.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 - 62 mph: | 11.9 sec |
| Maximum speed: | 196 km/h |
| Weight-to-power ratio: | 11.2 kg/Hp, 89.2 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio: | 7.4 kg/Nm, 134.6 Nm/tonne |
| Acceleration 0 - 60 mph: | 11.3 sec |
| Space: | |
|---|---|
| Kerb Weight: | 1300 |
| Max. weight: | 1800 |
| Max load: | 500 |
| Trunk (boot) space - maximum: | 1100 l |
| Trunk (boot) space - minimum: | 310 l |
| Fuel tank capacity: | 63 l |
| Size: | |
|---|---|
| Length: | 4262 mm [209mm less] |
| Width: | 1751 mm [12mm more] |
| Height: | 1408 mm [7mm less] |
| Wheelbase: | 2725 mm [Same wheelbase.] |
| Front track: | 1484 mm |
| Rear (Back) track: | 1493 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 | Automatic |
| 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 | 195/65 R15 |
| Wheel rims size | 6.5J x 15 |
| Front suspension | Wishbone |
| Rear suspension | Coil spring |
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