The BMW 3 Series (E46) is the fourth generation of the BMW 3 Series range of compact executive cars manufactured by German automaker BMW. Produced from 1997 to 2006, it was the successor to the E36 3 Series, which ceased production in 2000. The E46 generation of BMW M3 was introduced for the 2001 model year.
This latest M3 was part of the E46 3 Series and was powered by BMW's S54 3.2L straight six engine, which produced 338hp. Two body styles were built, a coupe and a convertible. These body styles were offered with two transmission options, leading to four main variants being built: Coupe Manual, Coupe SMG, Convertible Manual.
Discover why the BMW E46 M3 remains a legendary performance icon with its naturally aspirated 3.2L inline-six engine, track-focused handling, and timeless design. Learn about specs, reliability, market values, and ownership costs for this sought. There were 40,000 E46 M3s sold in the U.S.
Most parts are still readily available from BMW, and there's aftermarket support. About 80% of the parts, though, are unique to the E46 M3 when compared to the E46 3 Series cars. In 2004, there was a Life Cycle Impulse with minor changes, such as a revised deck lid handle and LED taillights.
For many BMW enthusiasts and sports car fans around the globe, the BMW M3 E46 is one of the most beautiful models in the series. But that's not all: technically, BMW M pulled out all the stops when it created the successor to the M3 E36. The result: a highly emotional driving experience that brings you closer to the world of motorsport with every second it is on the road.
Here's a portrait. I mages: BMW With thanks to: Dan Norris, Munich Legends and Barry Sheward, BMR Performance Launched at the 2000 Geneva Motor Show, the E46 M3 was offered in coupe or convertible forms and featured more purposeful styling compared to previous iterations, with wide arches and a purposeful stance improving upon the E46 3 Series ' already handsome styling. Under the bonnet was the S54 straight.
A prototype of the highly anticipated E46 M3 was displayed at the Frankfurt Motor Show in September 1999. The production version was then unveiled at Geneva in March 2000. Construction began in September 2000.
Assembly took place on the normal 3-series production line at BMW's Regensburg factory near Munich. Discover the legendary BMW E46 3 Series-its history, performance, and why it remains one of the most beloved BMWs ever made. Explore the BMW E46 3 Series Coupe M3 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003 detailed specs, including 0-60 mph times, horsepower, and handling data.
Get all the Info. The M3 would continue until the end of the 2006 model year before becoming discontinued. What followed was a similarly good-looking and high-performance BMW sport sedan with a strong following like the E46-but that's for another time.