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BMW M3 Coupe (E46) 3.2 (333 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 355 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. 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.
3.2 (333 Hp) Verdict:
Performance Verdict
The standard European M3 E46 offers exhilarating performance with its high-revving S54B32 engine, delivering a thrilling power band and impressive acceleration for its time.
Fuel Economy
Fuel economy is typical for a high-performance 3.2L inline-six, leaning towards the thirstier side, especially under spirited driving conditions.
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(G80: 2023 - 2024).
| General: | |
|---|---|
| Brand: | BMW |
| Model: | M3 |
| Generation: | Coupe (E46) |
| Modification (Engine): | 3.2 (333 Hp) |
| Start of production: | February, 2001 |
| End of production: | May, 2006 |
| Powertrain Architecture: | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type: | Coupe |
| Seats: | 5 |
| Doors: | 2 |
| Engine: | |
|---|---|
| Power: | 333 Hp @ 7900 rpm. Same horsepower |
| Power per litre: | 102.6 Hp/l [303mm less] |
| Torque: | 355 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: | Double-VANOS |
| Engine oil capacity: | 5.5 l |
| Coolant: | 6 l |
| Engine layout: | Front, Longitudinal |
| Cylinder Bore: | 87 mm mm |
| Piston Stroke: | 91 mm mm |
| Compression ratio: | 11.5:1 |
| Maximum engine speed: | 8000 rpm. |
| Performance: | |
|---|---|
| Fuel Type: | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) - urban: | 14.7 l/100 km |
| Fuel consumption (economy) - extra urban: | 9.8 l/100 km |
| Fuel consumption (economy) - urban (EPA): | 14.7 l/100 km |
| Fuel consumption (economy) - extra urban (EPA): | 9.8 l/100 km |
| Maximum speed: | 250 km/h, Electronically limited |
| Weight-to-power ratio: | 4.5 kg/Hp, 222.7 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio: | 4.2 kg/Nm, 237.5 Nm/tonne |
| Acceleration 0 - 60 mph: | 4.8 sec |
| Space: | |
|---|---|
| Kerb Weight: | 1495 |
| Max. weight: | 2000-2020 |
| Max. roof load: | 75 kg |
| Max load: | 505-525 |
| Trunk (boot) space - minimum: | 410 l |
| Fuel tank capacity: | 63 l |
| Size: | |
|---|---|
| Length: | 4492 mm mm [303mm less] |
| Width: | 1780 mm mm [138mm less] |
| Height: | 1372 mm mm [66mm less] |
| Wheelbase: | 2731 mm mm [126mm less] |
| Width including mirrors: | 1924 mm |
| Front track: | 1508 mm |
| Rear (Back) track: | 1525 mm |
| Front overhang: | 774 mm |
| Rear overhang: | 987 mm |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter): | 11 m [above average] |
| Approach angle: | 10.4° |
| 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, 325x28 mm [Best for performance and cooling.] |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs, 328x20 mm [Best for performance and cooling.] |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | Front wheel tires: 225/45 R18; 225/40 R19 |
| Wheel rims size | Front wheel rims: 8J x 18; 8J x 19 |
| Front suspension | Spring Strut, Transverse stabilizer |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link spring suspension with stabilizer |
Fuel, speed, and comfort: How does the BMW M3 rank in your book?