The charged BMW M-ki are quite famous all over the world, but one of the legends of the BMW M3 E46 requires a separate review. This is not just a sports car, but a whole story, let us consider in more detail its characteristics and parameters.
Contents of the review:
- Exterior of the E46
- Interior
- Specifications
- Security
- Cost and configuration
BMW cars are popular all over the world, but its M-series modifications are more popular. These are not just cars, but behind each model there is a legend of creation and production. One example of this series can be considered the BMW M3 E46, the start of production fell on June 2000 and lasted until November 2006.
During this period, several modifications and variants of the car were released. In terms of body form, the BMW M3 E46 is available as a coupe and convertible, other options are excluded. To understand what this beast is capable of, we will consider in detail the configuration, characteristics and parameters of the M3 E46.
Exterior of the legend BMW M3 E46
The third series of BMW cars can boast of power and compact dimensions at the same time. Still, the M-series is much faster and more attractive than the standard version. It often happens that inexperienced car enthusiasts confuse M-ki with the standard BMW 3-Series equipped with an M-package.
The charged BMW M3 E46 looks more aggressive than the usual three. The front part can be distinguished by a different bonnet, the front grille air intakes are smaller. The curved lines do not extend from the upper grille of the BMW M3 E46, but from the bumper itself, thus, looking closely, you can see where the first differences are. The hood of such an M-ki also changed its shape, immediately behind the classic emblem of the company, a convex part appeared, characteristic only of the M-series. Such a convex part of the hood is made in order to accommodate a large intake manifold under the hood.
The most rare is the BMW M3 E46 GTR, designed specifically for the English Channel. For the racing season, the manufacturer produced only 16 of these cars, and at the end 10 more such cars were produced, especially for the road. A characteristic difference of this variant of the BMW M3 E46 is the presence of gills (additional holes for engine ventilation), as well as the presence of a factory spoiler behind.
The optics of the BMW M3 E46 also differ in shape, the side part on the fenders is not directed upward, as before, and the insert under the optics has a wave-like shape, but the classic two lenses in one headlight were left unchanged. The front bumper of the BMW M3 E46 also has an aggressive look, its central part is occupied by an additional grille for engine airflow. On the sides of the bumper, there were foglights and, in some trim levels, turn signal repeaters.
The side part, typical only for the BMW M3 E46, the first is more expressive and extended wheel arches, immediately behind the arches there was a hole for better aerodynamics, and the first nameplate with the M3 inscription was placed on it. From the front arch to the rear optics, the BMW M3 E46 is divided into an upper and a lower section. Another difference is the smaller side mirrors compared to the standard equipment, which has much larger ones.
As already mentioned, the body type BMW M3 E46 is only available in a two-door version. The entire length of the charged coupe is emphasized by molding, from the front to the rear arches, it is at this distance that the bumpers are installed. In the front part of the molding, on the front fender, a turn signal is located, which is also installed only on the M3.
The rear end of the BMW M3 E46 is almost the same, except for the special editions of the M3 E46. The trunk lid is curved at the end, like a small spoiler, such a curvature is positively reflected in the aerodynamics of the car. The rear optics of the BMW M3 E46 are the same as in the regular model. But the difference is in the rear bumper, the central lower part is occupied by two cutouts for twin exhaust pipes. It is they who create the pleasant and characteristic sound of a charged BMW M3 E46.
In terms of dimensions, a charged BMW M3 E46 will depend on the configuration and body type. They can be divided into coupe, convertible and exclusive CSL model. First, let's take a look at the dimensions of the BMW M3 E46 Coupe.
- compartment length - 4492 mm;
- width - 1780 mm;
- M3 E46 Coupe height - 1372 mm;
- clearance - 110 mm;
- wheelbase - 2731 mm.
Slightly different dimensions in the BMW M3 E46 Convertible:
- convertible length - 4488 mm;
- width is - 1757 mm;
- the height is less than in the compartment - 1370 mm;
- wheelbase Convertible - 2725 mm;
- ground clearance - 110 mm.
The third option and very rare - BMW M3 E46 CSL:
- E46 CSL length - 4492 mm;
- vehicle width - 1780 mm;
- CSL height - 1365 mm;
- wheelbase - 2729 mm;
- ground clearance M3 E46 CSL - 110 mm.
Despite the body kit, the dimensions of the BMW M3 E46 remained compact, the sporty style is clearly visible both in the coupe and in the convertible. The roof of the BMW M4 E46 can be solid or with a sunroof. For the BMW M3 E46 CSL, the roof will be made with SMC material. The basis for such a sports car was branded 18 ″ alloy wheels or 19 ″ for the BMW M3 E46 CSL configuration.
According to the color scheme, the body of the BM M3 E46 is painted in a huge number of shades, but the most common ones are:
- silver;
- black;
- Navy blue;
- blue;
- dark grey;
- yellow;
- Red;
- snow white.
Exclusive options or special body colors are not excluded. In terms of weight, the three variants of the BMW M3 E46 are different, and most of them depend on the configuration of the car itself. The curb (gross) weight of the BMW M3 E46 coupe is 1500 kg (2000 kg), the convertible is 1660 kg (2100 kg), and the equipment for the CSL coupe is 1385 kg (1800 kg). The trunk also differs slightly in volume, since the roof in a convertible must be folded, the trunk of a convertible is 300 liters, and a coupe in any version is designed for 410 liters. Fuel tank BMW M3 E46 in any configuration 63 l.
At first glance, a charged BMW M3 E46 can be confused with the usually three, but those who know what the M-series is will say unequivocally that these are completely different cars, both externally and under the hood.
BMW M3 E46 interior
If the exterior of the BMW M3 E46 had characteristic differences at first glance, then the interior of this car does not differ much from the production model, except for the presence of inscriptions (nameplates) of the M-series. The front panel is made in a classic style, and much will depend on the chosen vehicle configuration. This refers to the presence and location of interior devices such as a TV, climate control panel and other decor details.
At the very top of the front panel there are two air ducts, under them, depending on the configuration, there may be an audio system panel with a display, or a conventional audio system. In most configurations of the BMW M3 E46, the climate control panel is located under the audio system, but it is possible that the air conditioning panel may be located (an example of this was the BMW M3 E46 CSL model). A small set of buttons for controlling the heated seats, locking the door locks and other functions are located very close by. Even below the panel is hidden an ashtray and a cigarette lighter, a gearshift lever is located nearby, according to the configuration of the BMW M3 E46, the gearbox can be robotic or mechanical. On the lever itself, regardless of the type of gearbox, there will be an M-series marking in the form of the letter M. To the right and left of the lever there are four power window control buttons. Despite the fact that all BMW M3 E46 are two-door, glass is provided for the second row, and for them, as it should be, power window buttons.
A mechanical handbrake was placed behind the gearshift lever, at that time little was known about the electromechanical ones, and the reliability left us expecting the best. Comfortable and thoughtful enough, the armrest is made, with a recess for the handbrake. No less interesting is the driver's seat of the BMW M3 E46, the dashboard is updated, but still in the style of BMW. The central part is occupied by a speedometer, a tachometer, a fuel level and engine temperature sensor, indicators are located under the instruments.At the bottom of the speedometer of the BMW M3 E46, the characteristic M-series markings, three inclined stripes in blue, blue and red, as well as the letter M.
The steering wheel of the BMW M3 E46 does not differ much from the standard model, in addition to the characteristic M-series lettering on the bottom of the third spoke. On two side spokes were located buttons for controlling mobile communications, cruise control and an audio system. Behind the wheel, there are knobs for switching turn signals, wipers control and other functions of the BMW M3 E46. To the left of the steering wheel, a standard control panel for light and fog lights was placed. It is worth noting that for the BMW M3 E46 convertible since 2001, gearshift paddles were installed behind the wheel.
If we talk about the seats of the BMW M3 E46, then they are made with the sporty style of the time, streamlined on the sides from the top and bottom, with a comfortable fit and the possibility of electronic adjustment. The rear row of seats, although designed for two passengers, can accommodate a third, but not for long-distance trips.
High-quality leather or suede (for CSL equipment) was used as a material for the interior upholstery of the BMW M3 E46. The interior is very diverse in color, much depends on the taste and desires of the buyer of those times. Most often you can find a leather interior in colors:
- black;
- beige;
- Gray;
- yellow;
- Navy blue;
- Orange.
The option of an exclusive interior decoration in red or yellow is not excluded. For a car such as the BMW M3 E46, personal orders for a combination of different color shades were also possible.
The conclusion about the interior of the BMW M3 E46 is that in comparison with the usual three, there are no special differences, except for the inscriptions indicating that the model belongs to the M-series and the front sports seats.
Specifications BMW M3 E46
Talking about the appearance or interior of the BMW M3 E46 is one thing, but the whole highlight of the legend lies under the hood in the technical characteristics of the car. From the usual configuration, this charged car is distinguished by a new engine, modified suspension and lighter weight, as well as improved aerodynamics.
The charged BMW M3 E46 is powered by a naturally aspirated six-cylinder engine. It was this unit that was recognized as the best engine of its size for 5 years, from 2001 to 2006, although it first appeared in 2000. The volume of such a BMW M3 E46 engine is 3.2 liters. For the coupe and convertible, the power of this unit is 343 hp, with a maximum torque of 365 Nm. The CSL trim level, due to its light weight, can produce 360 hp. and a maximum torque of 370 Nm.
In all variants of the BMW M3 E46, the L-engine is located longitudinally, and the drive is transmitted to the rear wheels. An all-wheel drive option was not provided and was not produced. The BMW M3 E46 engine is paired with a six-speed manual or automatic transmission.
Despite some general technical characteristics of the BMW M3 E46, the fuel consumption of each configuration is different for the body. A regular coupe and a lightweight version of the CSL with a manual transmission consumes 17.8 l / 100 km in the city. Outside the city, the consumption is 8.4 liters, and in the combined cycle, 11.9 liters of gasoline will be required. The maximum speed of a conventional BMW M3 E46 coupe is 250 km / h, while the car will be able to overcome the first hundred on the speedometer in 5.2 seconds. The maximum speed of the lightweight CSL is the same - 250 km / h, but the first hundred can be overcome in 4.9 seconds.
The BMW M3 E46 convertible with a manual transmission will eat 17.9 liters per hundred in the city, 8.8 liters outside the city, and the combined cycle will pull 12.1 liters. The maximum speed is still the same - 250 km / h, acceleration to the first hundred will take 5.5 seconds.
As soon as you press the gas pedal, the BMW M3 E46 bites into the asphalt and takes off as quickly as possible, according to technical indicators, the car takes the maximum speed to failure and only the electronic limiter does not allow putting the arrow to the maximum mark. Craftsmen bypass the limiter in various ways, and then the maximum speed increases to 280 - 300 km / h.
The unique equipment of the BMW M3 E46 GTR is considered the rarest. First released in February 2001, the car is powered by a 4L V8 engine. The power of such a unit is 380 hp. at 7000 rpm of torque. The engine is paired with a six-speed manual transmission, with a special sports two-disc clutch and an M-differential that can change the degree of blocking.
Also from the technical characteristics, the unique BMW M3 E46 GTR acquired a rigid chassis. In addition to all this, this car has been significantly underestimated to improve aerodynamics and better downforce.
As for the suspension of the usual BMW M3 E46, it is updated and modified. At the front there is a wishbone-based shock absorber struts, as well as a wishbone and a transverse stabilizer. The rear suspension is based on telescopic shock absorbers, with a transverse stabilizer, paired with a coil spring and a trailing arm. The braking system, both front and rear, is based on ventilated disc brakes.
It is these technical characteristics that underline and distinguish the BMW M3 E46 from other BMW 3 Series E46 vehicles. Many BMW fans can say that this charged coupe, although in years, is in no way inferior to modern similar cars of its class in terms of technical indicators.
Security systems BMW M3 E46
The charged BMW M3 E46 cannot boast of a large set of security systems, since at that time there were simply no special electronic systems in comparison with modern security systems. But as for that time, the equipment was not bad enough.
The BMW M3 E46 comes standard with DSC Dynamic Control and EDFC Engine Control. For the front passenger and the driver, there are two airbags in the front and two side airbags, and there are also seat belts for the front and rear passengers. Rumor has it that a rear-view camera was installed on trim levels with a display, but there is no reliable data from the manufacturer.
BMW M3 E46 price and equipment
You can buy a BMW M3 E46 in Russia. This is not a rare model, and quite a few of these sports coupes were brought to the territory of the Russian Federation. The price will depend on the configuration and the condition of the car, since many have already been a lot for a year, and those who drive have seen more than one race on the road. It is a rare case when a BMW M3 E46 has survived in perfect native condition, as a rule, the price for such copies is twice as expensive as a regular M3 E46.
In terms of equipment, most often there are BMW M3 E46 coupes, but convertibles can also, much less often you can find other modifications. BMW statistics show that during the entire period 10 road cars of a special version of the BMW M3 E46 GTR were produced, the price of one such GTR was at that time 250,000 euros. The lightweight version of CSL was released in a circulation of 1400 copies. Today, buy a used BMW M3 E46 in Russia at a price of 2,500,000 to 3,000,000 rubles.
For a used coupe and convertible BMW M3 E46 the price in Russia is from 700,000 to 1,000,000 rubles. There may also be tuned models from the manufacturer, they can be more expensive than 1,000,000 rubles. According to BMW, 84,383 copies of the BMW M3 E46 coupe and convertible were produced from 2000 to 2006, excluding special versions.
To this day, the BMW M3 E46 is considered one of the best and most successful models among the 3 Series cars. The combination of bodywork and technical characteristics showed excellent aerodynamic performance and speed capabilities. The owners of such BMW M3 E46 say that the car is worth the money that is asked for it.
Other photos of BMW M3 E46:
Bmw
