BMW 3 Series Coupe (E46) 328Ci (193 Hp)


Overall Rating

7.2 / 10
Safety 4.0 / 5
Engine 3.0 / 5
Value 4.0 / 5
Performance 4.0 / 5
Comfort 3.5 / 5
People\'s Opinion N/A / 5
Not Rated

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 280 Nm of torque, it offers ample pulling power. With a weight of 1395 kg, it falls in the mid‑range. Rear‑wheel drive offers dynamic handling and sporty feedback. Acceleration is good (0–100 km/h in 7 s). The top speed reaches 242 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.

328Ci (193 Hp) Verdict:

Rating 4 stars

Performance Verdict

Impressive power and torque, delivering strong acceleration and a distinctly sporty feel.

Fuel Economy

Expected moderate to high fuel consumption, typical for a larger 6-cylinder with this performance.

Best Use Case: Performance-oriented driving, excellent for highway cruising and spirited runs, a true driver's car.

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 - 2000).

General:
Brand:BMW
Model:3 Series
Generation:Coupe (E46)
Modification (Engine):328Ci (193 Hp)
Start of production:1999
End of production:2000
Powertrain Architecture:Internal Combustion engine
Body type:Coupe
Seats:5
Doors:2
Engine:
Power:193 Hp @ 5500 rpm. Same horsepower
Power per litre:69 Hp/l [17mm more]
Torque:280 Nm @ 3500 rpm.
Engine Model/Code:M52B28 More details about the engine M52B28
Engine displacement:2798
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 mm
Piston Stroke:84 mm mm
Compression ratio:10.2:1
Performance:
Fuel Type:Petrol (Gasoline)
Fuel consumption (economy) - urban:12.5 l/100 km
Fuel consumption (economy) - extra urban:7 l/100 km
Acceleration 0 - 100 km/h:7 sec
Acceleration 0 - 62 mph:7 sec
Maximum speed:242 km/h
Weight-to-power ratio:7.2 kg/Hp, 138.4 Hp/tonne
Weight-to-torque ratio:5 kg/Nm, 200.7 Nm/tonne
Acceleration 0 - 60 mph:6.7 sec
Space:
Kerb Weight:1395
Max. weight:1895
Max load:500
Trunk (boot) space - minimum:440 l
Fuel tank capacity:63 l
Size:
Length:4488 mm mm [17mm more]
Width:1757 mm mm [18mm more]
Height:1369 mm mm [46mm less]
Wheelbase:2725 mm mm [Same wheelbase.]
Front track:1471 mm
Rear (Back) track:1478 mm
Powertrain:
Drivetrain ArchitectureThe Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the rear wheels of the vehicle.
Drive wheelRear wheel drive
Number of gears5
Transmission typeManual
Front brakesVentilated discs [Best for performance and cooling.]
Rear brakesDisc
Assisting systemsABS (Anti-lock braking system)
Steering typeSteering rack and pinion
Power steeringHydraulic Steering
Tires size205/55 R16
Wheel rims size16
Front suspensionWishbone
Rear suspensionCoil spring

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