BMW 3 Series E46 1998: The Ultimate Driving Experience for Enthusiasts

The BMW 3 Series E46, launched in 1998, redefined what a sporty luxury sedan could be—offering precision engineering and driver engagement that still captivate enthusiasts today.

Powered by a 3.2-liter inline-six producing 76 kW (102 hp), the E46 balances smoothness with responsive performance. With a refined 6-speed manual transmission and rear-wheel drive, it delivers an engaging driving experience that rewards skill and attention. Its lightweight chassis and balanced suspension setup make it a joy to handle on twisty roads and highways alike.

The E46’s sculpted lines, signature kidney grilles, and elegant proportions embody 1990s automotive elegance. Inside, a driver-focused cabin combines quality materials with intuitive controls, offering comfort without compromising on performance. The model’s reliability and service accessibility make it a smart long-term investment.

As a benchmark in the E46 generation, the 1998 BMW 3 Series stands as a collector’s favorite. Owning one connects enthusiasts to a golden era of driving dynamics, where performance, craftsmanship, and driver engagement converged seamlessly—making it timeless in every sense.

Whether you're drawn to its performance roots, classic styling, or enduring value, the BMW 3 Series E46 1998 remains a defining chapter in BMW’s legacy. If you're seeking a rare blend of passion and precision, this model deserves a place in your journey through automotive excellence.

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. There are 58 1998 BMW 3 Series.

Get current 1998 3 Series fair market price, depreciation, trade-in, and resale values from the trusted experts at Kelley Blue Book. Read expert reviews, check safety ratings, and compare the 1998. BMW 3 Series (E46) 1998-2002 specs, photos, engines, years, launch date and history.

Edmunds' expert review of the Used 1998 BMW 3 Series provides the latest look at trim-level features and specs, performance, safety, and comfort. At Edmunds we drive every car we review. In 1997, BMW released the 4th generation of the 3 Series - E46.

It offered 5 different body styles: 4-door sedan/coupe; 2-door coupe, 2-door convertible; 3-door hatchback and a 5-door wagon/estate. Its production ended in 2006. As a replacement, BMW launched E90.

Explore the BMW E46 3 Series Sedan 318i 1998, 1999, 2000, 2001 detailed specs, including 0-60 mph times, horsepower, and handling data. Get all the Info. BMW 3 series 1998 E46 Sedan - 2001 technical data, real fuel consumption, user reviews etc.

26 BMW 3 series modifications: power from 105 to 231 HP, fuel consumption from 5.7 to 10 l/100km. All BMW 3-series E46/4 Sedan phase-I RWD (2WD) versions offered for the year 1998 with complete specs, performance and technical data in the catalogue of cars. This generation of the BMW 3 Series (E46) was produced by the German manufacturer BMW between 1998 - 2006.

It's a front engined car with either rear-wheel drive or all-wheel drive and came as a sedan, coupé, convertible, wagon or hatchback.