What year is the BMW E46 3 Series?
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 M3 produces 333 horsepower at 7,900 RPM, and 262 lb-ft of torque at 4,900 RPM from the S54 engine, a naturally aspirated 3.Comparing the two, there’s no doubt that the E46 was given the better cabin space. The E36 has an almost utilitarian layout that feels far more dated than the E46’s, which holds up better today. The much-rounder M3 has an interior to match with flowing lines and reduced button count, even by today’s standards.The M54, produced from 2000 to 2006, is often hailed as one of BMW’s most reliable engines. This inline-six engine is known for its smooth operation, impressive durability, and balance between performance and efficiency.The E46 is praised for perhaps being a car that is good at nearly everything it does. Sure there are cars that are better at a specific area but the E46 strikes a sweet spot. Most people would say that it looks good, handles good, is reliable, is easy enough to maintain, is versatile, and is practical.
Is the BMW E46 a M3?
E46 generation (2000–2006) The M3 version of the E46 3 Series was produced in coupé and convertible body styles. As detailed above, the 2002 version is the troublemaker of the E46 M3 family. Skip this year due to its many engine problems and risk of major breakdowns.The BMW E46 is the fourth generation of the BMW 3 Series, which was produced from 1997 to 2006.The BMW M3 E46 Coupé took the hearts of real sports car fans by storm when it launched in 2000. With a low weight construction and the high-rev concept of its inline 6-cylinder engine, for many it embodied a return to the virtues of the iconic BMW M3 E30.The 3 Series also has solid build quality and lower maintenance costs compared to other BMW models. When buying used, it is important to check for cooling system issues and inspect the suspension. These components may need attention, especially in older models, but the 3 Series remains a top choice for reliability.
Which E46 is the best?
Best E46 For Everyday Performance: 330i ZHP Manual The 330i replaced the 328i for the 2001 model year and delivered outputs of 225 horsepower and 214 lb-ft of torque. Two years later, the 330i ZHP, effectively a performance package, had its numbers bumped up to 235 hp/222 lb-ft. It’s always uncommon to see an Individual BMW, yet seeing a Ruby Red Metallic E46 M3 is downright rare. Allegedly, only around 25 buyers were willing to spec their new E46 with Ruby Red through BMW Individual, and the left-hand-drive examples were in the single digits.Verdict: Buy an E46 in 2025? Oh yes, absolutely. The E46 3 Series is still one of the best ways to get into the brand and one of the best bang-for-buck cars on the road today.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.This model’s engineering has stood the test of time, and its versatility has prolonged its vaunted status among enthusiasts. Inevitably, those qualities have prompted high BMW E46 M3 prices on the used car market. Still, most pre-owned E46 M3 models are more affordable than a new M3.Whilst it is very probable that this will one day be considered a classic, the E46 M3 is now between 15 and 20 years old. We like to call this the ‘minefield phase’ here at The Car Investor.
What does E46 stand for?
They call the fourth generation of their popular 3-Series the E46, which ran primarily between 1997 and 2006 in the coupe and convertible body styles. E46 Coupe. The best 3-Series coupe BMW has made. Compact design with good performance and handling. Very reliable with no non-warranty problems in 15 years of ownership.
What is the big 3 E46 problem?
The “Big 3” (BMW E46 M3) The BMW E46 M3 with the S54 engine is an incredibly powerful and capable vehicle, but it has some notable points of failure. You will often hear people talk about “The Big 3” when it comes to maintenance on your E46. The Big 3 includes rod bearings, a rebuilt VANOS, and subframe reinforcement. Frequently Asked Questions about the 2004 BMW M3 Coupe The E46 M3 produces 333 horsepower at 7,900 RPM, and 262 lb-ft of torque at 4,900 RPM from the S54 engine, a naturally aspirated 3.The rear-wheel-drive 328i is powered by a 3. While the engine doesn’t have the low-end thrust of the twin-turbo 335i and its unique 3.BMW TWINPOWER TURBO PETROL ENGINES. The BMW TwinPower Turbo 4-cylinder petrol engine in the BMW 320i has a powerful 135 kW, providing maximum torque of 270 Nm.Best E46 For Everyday Performance: 330i ZHP Manual The 330i replaced the 328i for the 2001 model year and delivered outputs of 225 horsepower and 214 lb-ft of torque. Two years later, the 330i ZHP, effectively a performance package, had its numbers bumped up to 235 hp/222 lb-ft.