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BMW M3 Coupe (E46) 3.2i 24V (343 Hp)
Overall Rating
BMW M3:
The BMW M3 is a high-performance version of the BMW 3 Series, developed by BMW's in-house motorsport division, BMW M GmbH. M3 models have been produced for every generation of 3 Series since the E30 M3 was introduced in 1986.
The initial model was available in a coupé body style, with a convertible body style made available soon after. M3 saloons were offered initially during the E36 and E90 generations. Since 2014, the coupé and convertible models have been rebranded as the 4 Series range, making the high-performance variant the M4. Variants of the 3 Series since then have seen the M3 produced as a saloon, until 2020, when the M3 was produced as an estate for the first time, alongside the saloon variant....(Read more on Wikipedia)
Coupe (E46) Overview:
BMW M3 (Coupe (E46)). With 365 Nm of torque, it offers ample pulling power. With a weight of 1495 kg, it falls in the mid‑range. Rear‑wheel drive offers dynamic handling and sporty feedback. Acceleration is excellent (0–100 km/h in 5.2 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.
3.2i 24V (343 Hp) Verdict:
Performance Verdict
A slightly more potent version of the S54, offering a marginal power increase. The listed acceleration figure (5.2s) is curious given the higher output, possibly due to different testing conditions or transmission type (SMG vs. manual).
Fuel Economy
Similar to the 333 Hp variant, expect moderate fuel efficiency, prioritizing performance over economy. The 11.9 l/100 km combined is standard for this class.
Pros and Cons:
Pros:
- • Legendary S54 engine character and sound
- • Exceptional handling and driver engagement
- • Timeless and iconic design
- • Strong aftermarket support and enthusiast community
- • Appreciating classic status, especially for CSL
Cons:
- • S54 engine known for rod bearing and VANOS issues (requires diligent maintenance)
- • Relatively poor fuel economy for a daily driver
- • Firm ride quality may not suit all drivers
- • Potential for subframe cracking on early models
- • SMG transmission can be temperamental and costly to maintain
Specifications:
Specifications are compared to those of the previous generation(E36: 1995 - 1998).
| General: | |
|---|---|
| Brand: | BMW |
| Model: | M3 |
| Generation: | Coupe (E46) |
| Modification (Engine): | 3.2i 24V (343 Hp) |
| Start of production: | 2000 |
| End of production: | 2003 |
| Powertrain Architecture: | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type: | Coupe |
| Seats: | 5 |
| Doors: | 2 |
| Engine: | |
|---|---|
| Power: | 343 Hp @ 7900 rpm. Same horsepower |
| Power per litre: | 105.7 Hp/l [59mm more] |
| Torque: | 365 Nm @ 4900 rpm. |
| Engine Model/Code: | S54B32 More details about the engine S54B32 |
| Engine displacement: | 3246 |
| 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: | 5.5 l |
| Coolant: | 10 l |
| Engine layout: | Front, Longitudinal |
| Cylinder Bore: | 87 mm mm |
| Piston Stroke: | 91 mm mm |
| Compression ratio: | 11.5:1 |
| Performance: | |
|---|---|
| Fuel Type: | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) - urban: | 17.8 l/100 km |
| Fuel consumption (economy) - extra urban: | 8.4 l/100 km |
| Fuel consumption (economy) - combined: | 11.9 l/100 km |
| Acceleration 0 - 100 km/h: | 5.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 - 62 mph: | 5.2 sec |
| Maximum speed: | 250 km/h |
| Weight-to-power ratio: | 4.4 kg/Hp, 229.4 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio: | 4.1 kg/Nm, 244.1 Nm/tonne |
| Acceleration 0 - 60 mph: | 4.9 sec |
| Space: | |
|---|---|
| Kerb Weight: | 1495 |
| Max. weight: | 2000 |
| Max load: | 505 |
| Trunk (boot) space - minimum: | 410 l |
| Fuel tank capacity: | 63 l |
| Size: | |
|---|---|
| Length: | 4492 mm mm [59mm more] |
| Width: | 1780 mm mm [84mm more] |
| Height: | 1372 mm mm [7mm more] |
| Wheelbase: | 2731 mm mm [21mm more] |
| Front track: | 1508 mm |
| Rear (Back) track: | 1525 mm |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter): | 11.0 m [above average] |
| 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 | Ventilated discs [Best for performance and cooling.] |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 225/45 R18; 255/40 R18 |
| Wheel rims size | 8J x 18; 9J x 18 |
| Front suspension | Wishbone |
| Rear suspension | Coil spring |
If you could change one thing about the BMW M3, what would it be?