Which BMW is an E46?
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. Found in models such as the E46 3 Series, E39 5 Series, E53 X5, and Z4, the M54 remains a cornerstone of BMW’s vast engine lineup.Conclusion: the e36 bmw is the drift king while other bmw models like the e30 and e46 are excellent platforms in their own right, the e36 strikes the perfect balance between cost, performance, and modifiability.The BMW 318ti/320 E46 16v N42 Engine is a powerful 4-cylinder engine built specifically for the BMW E46 series, renowned for its precision engineering and superior performance.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.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.
How much HP is an E46 M3?
Like the Honda and Ferrari, the BMW powerplant which has 333 horsepower, does not arrive with any earth shattering new technology. Rather, the engines achieve their superb outputs through a careful, methodical approach of lightening the engine internals and improving the breathing. Turbocharged Power and Precision Handling Under the hood, the 2025 BMW 330i boasts a 2. BMW TwinPower Turbo inline 4-cylinder engine, generating 255 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque.Under the hood, the 2025 BMW 330i boasts a 2. BMW TwinPower Turbo inline 4-cylinder engine, generating 255 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque.The 330i delivers tremendous power with its 248 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque. Its turbocharged 2. L I4 engine achieves impressive fuel efficiency metrics: 24 city mpg and 34 highway mpg for RWD, and 23 city mpg and 33 highway mpg for its AWD Gran Turismo trim level.Sedan: Comes standard with rear-wheel drive, 255 horsepower, turbocharged 4 cylinder engine, and 8-speed automatic transmission.If you desire even stronger acceleration, step up to the 330i model. Although its engine is similar to that of the 320i model, BMW tuned it to produce a more formidable 248 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. Both models are incredibly efficient.
Is the E46 M3 a V6?
AN M3 FOR THE MILLENNIUM. 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. Best E46 Year For Reliability: 2001 Model We trawled through data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and found that the 2001 E46 3 Series racked up very few overall complaints and recalls.The E46 M3 is powered by the S54 straight-six engine and has a 0–100 km/h (62 mph) acceleration time of 5. SMG-II transmission.We’ll go into more detail about what to look out for when buying a used E46 M3 later on in this article, but as a starting point, here are some of the key common problems to be aware of: Rust – especially on the arches. Cracked rear subframe components. SMG auto gearbox pump and software issues.Best E46 Year For Reliability: 2001 Model We trawled through data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and found that the 2001 E46 3 Series racked up very few overall complaints and recalls.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.
Is the BMW 330i a V6 or V8?
A powerful engine with a full stable of thoroughbred German horses. The BMW 330i comes equipped with a 2. BMW TwinPower turbocharged four-cylinder engine with 255 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque; 48-volt mild-hybrid technology is also integrated. In India, the BMW 3 Series is offered with two primary engine options, a 2. The petrol 330i produces around 255 hp and 400 Nm of torque, while the diesel 320Ld delivers about 190 hp and 400 Nm.BMW Maintenance Cost – FAQs The BMW 3 Series—especially the 320i and 330i—is widely considered the cheapest to maintain due to its reliable 4-cylinder engine, simple RWD layout, and wide availability of parts.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.Both offer a comfortable, sporting ride, but with the 320i, the goal is to offer an accessibly-priced luxury cruiser, while the 330i offers a balance between that and more aggressive performance. Both can be had with a choice between two or four different design stylings, and have available xDrive AWD.
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. 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.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.E46 generation (2000–2006) The M3 version of the E46 3 Series was produced in coupé and convertible body styles.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.
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. 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.Among late-model 3 Series, 2014 to 2018 and 2020 to 2023 models have the highest reliability ratings and the fewest problems. What are the worst BMW 3 Series years? Generationally, the worst 3 Series is probably the fifth-generation “E90” model built from 2005 to 2011.You can expect your 3 Series to last anywhere from 200,000 to 250,000 miles when properly maintained. Is the BMW 3 Series reliable? Due to its meticulous craftsmanship and precision engineering, the 3 Series is a durable, long-lasting, and dependable car.The F30 BMW 3 Series (2012-2019) The BMW 3 Series, particularly the F30 generation, is one of the most reliable and best-selling models BMW has ever produced. It strikes a perfect balance between sporty handling, luxury features, and long-term reliability.
Why was the E46 banned?
However, controversy surrounded the car’s dominance, as it was later revealed that BMW had exploited a loophole in the rules to gain an unfair advantage. As a result, the car was eventually banned from competition. Despite its short-lived racing career, the E46 GTR remains a highly sought-after and iconic BMW race car. It concerns the development, deployment, and short-lived success of an ice-cold racer, the V8-powered E46 BMW M3 GTR, and the team that ran BMW North America’s (NA) M3 GT racing cars, Prototype Technology Group (PTG).