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BMW 3 Series Coupe (E46) 323Ci (170 Hp) Automatic
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 245 Nm of torque, it offers ample pulling power. With a weight of 1370 kg, it falls in the mid‑range. Rear‑wheel drive offers dynamic handling and sporty feedback. Acceleration is good (0–100 km/h in 9 s). The top speed reaches 230 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.
323Ci (170 Hp) Automatic Verdict:
Performance Verdict
Smooth power delivery, but the automatic transmission slightly dulls acceleration compared to the manual.
Fuel Economy
Slightly higher fuel consumption than the manual version, typical for an older automatic.
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): 1998 - 2001).
| General: | |
|---|---|
| Brand: | BMW |
| Model: | 3 Series |
| Generation: | Coupe (E46) |
| Modification (Engine): | 323Ci (170 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production: | 1999 |
| End of production: | 2000 |
| Powertrain Architecture: | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type: | Coupe |
| Seats: | 5 |
| Doors: | 2 |
| Engine: | |
|---|---|
| Power: | 170 Hp @ 5500 rpm. Same horsepower |
| Power per litre: | 68.2 Hp/l [17mm more] |
| Torque: | 245 Nm @ 3950 rpm. |
| Engine Model/Code: | M52B25 More details about the engine M52B25 |
| Engine displacement: | 2494 |
| 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: | 75 mm |
| Compression ratio: | 10.5:1 |
| Performance: | |
|---|---|
| Fuel Type: | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) - urban: | 14.9 l/100 km |
| Fuel consumption (economy) - extra urban: | 7.2 l/100 km |
| Acceleration 0 - 100 km/h: | 9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 - 62 mph: | 9 sec |
| Maximum speed: | 230 km/h |
| Weight-to-power ratio: | 8.1 kg/Hp, 124.1 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio: | 5.6 kg/Nm, 178.8 Nm/tonne |
| Acceleration 0 - 60 mph: | 8.6 sec |
| Space: | |
|---|---|
| Kerb Weight: | 1370 |
| Max. weight: | 1870 |
| 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: | 1478 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 | 205/55 R16 |
| Wheel rims size | 16 |
| Front suspension | Wishbone |
| Rear suspension | Coil spring |
Fuel, speed, and comfort: How does the BMW 3 Series rank in your book?