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BMW 3 Series Sedan (E46) 320d (136 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)
Sedan (E46) Overview:
BMW 3 Series (Sedan (E46)). With 280 Nm of torque, it offers ample pulling power. It has moderate fuel consumption (~7.8 l/100km). With a weight of 1375 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 9.8 s). The top speed reaches 207 km/h. A four-door car with a separate trunk, ideal for families and daily commuting. Seating for 5 makes it ideal for daily use.
320d (136 Hp) Verdict:
Performance Verdict
Strong low-end torque provides a responsive feel, making it feel quicker than its horsepower suggests. Great for daily driving.
Fuel Economy
Outstanding fuel efficiency, a major highlight and a highly economical choice for long distances.
Pros and Cons:
Pros:
- • Engaging driving dynamics and precise handling
- • Timeless and elegant design
- • Strong and smooth inline-six petrol engines
- • High-quality interior materials and build
- • Good balance of sportiness and everyday usability
Cons:
- • Common cooling system component failures (water pump, expansion tank)
- • Potential for rear subframe cracks on early models
- • Window regulator failures are frequent
- • Rust can appear on rear wheel arches and sills
- • Maintenance costs can be higher than average for a car of its age
Specifications:
Specifications are compared to those of the previous generation(Coupe (E36): 1996 - 1999).
| General: | |
|---|---|
| Brand: | BMW |
| Model: | 3 Series |
| Generation: | Sedan (E46) |
| Modification (Engine): | 320d (136 Hp) |
| Start of production: | 1998 |
| End of production: | 2001 |
| Powertrain Architecture: | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type: | Sedan |
| Seats: | 5 |
| Doors: | 4 |
| Engine: | |
|---|---|
| Power: | 136 Hp @ 4000 rpm. Same horsepower |
| Power per litre: | 69.7 Hp/l [38mm more] |
| Torque: | 280 Nm @ 1750 rpm. |
| Engine Model/Code: | M47D20 More details about the engine M47D20 |
| Engine displacement: | 1951 |
| Number of cylinders: | 4 |
| Engine configuration: | Inline |
| Number of valves per cylinder: | 4 |
| Fuel injection system: | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration: | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain: | OHC |
| Engine oil capacity: | 5 l |
| Coolant: | 7 l |
| Engine layout: | Front, Longitudinal |
| Cylinder Bore: | 84 mm |
| Piston Stroke: | 88 mm |
| Compression ratio: | 19:1 |
| Performance: | |
|---|---|
| Fuel Type: | Diesel |
| Fuel consumption (economy) - urban: | 7.8 l/100 km |
| Fuel consumption (economy) - extra urban: | 4.7 l/100 km |
| Fuel consumption (economy) - combined: | 5.6 l/100 km |
| Acceleration 0 - 100 km/h: | 9.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 - 62 mph: | 9.8 sec |
| Maximum speed: | 207 km/h |
| Weight-to-power ratio: | 10.1 kg/Hp, 98.9 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio: | 4.9 kg/Nm, 203.6 Nm/tonne |
| Acceleration 0 - 60 mph: | 9.3 sec |
| Space: | |
|---|---|
| Kerb Weight: | 1375 |
| Max. weight: | 1875 |
| Max load: | 500 |
| Trunk (boot) space - minimum: | 400 l |
| Fuel tank capacity: | 64 l |
| Size: | |
|---|---|
| Length: | 4471 mm [38mm more] |
| Width: | 1739 mm [29mm more] |
| Height: | 1415 mm [49mm more] |
| Wheelbase: | 2725 mm [25mm more] |
| Front track: | 1481 mm |
| Rear (Back) track: | 1488 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 | 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 | 195/65 R15 |
| Wheel rims size | 15 |
| Front suspension | Spring Strut |
| Rear suspension | Coil spring |
If you could change one thing about the BMW 3 Series, what would it be?