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BMW E46 M3

Everything you need to know about BMW E46 M3 the German legend

By Car CommunityPublished about a year ago 3 min read
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BMW E46 M3

The BMW E46 M3 is a high-performance version of the third-generation BMW 3 Series, which was produced from 2000 to 2006. The E46 M3 was introduced in 2001 and was available as either a coupe or convertible.

The E46 M3 was powered by a 3.2-liter inline-six engine that produced 333 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque. The engine was mated to a six-speed manual transmission and could accelerate the car from 0 to 60 mph in just over 5 seconds. The car also featured a number of performance upgrades over the standard 3 Series, including a stiffer suspension, larger brakes, and a limited-slip differential.

The E46 M3 was highly regarded for its exceptional handling and driving dynamics, and it remains a sought-after car among BMW enthusiasts today. The car's distinctive styling, which included flared fenders and a unique front bumper, has also become an iconic symbol of 2000s sports cars.

In addition to its performance and styling, the E46 M3 was also notable for its advanced technology, including a high-tech engine management system, electronic throttle control, and variable valve timing. These features helped to make the car not only fast, but also efficient and environmentally friendly, which was a key consideration during its development.

BMW E30

What other advanced features did the E46 M3 have?

In addition to the engine management system, electronic throttle control, and variable valve timing, the BMW E46 M3 had several other advanced features that made it stand out from other cars of its time. Here are a few examples:

1. Sequential manual gearbox (SMG): The E46 M3 was available with an optional SMG transmission, which was a six-speed automated manual that could shift gears more quickly and smoothly than a traditional manual transmission. The SMG also had a "launch control" feature that could help the car accelerate from a standstill more quickly.

2. Dynamic Stability Control (DSC): The E46 M3 came standard with DSC, which was an advanced traction and stability control system that could help the driver maintain control of the car in challenging driving conditions. The DSC system included features such as brake assist, hill-start assistance, and cornering brake control.

3. Xenon headlights: The E46 M3 was one of the first cars to offer xenon headlights as standard equipment. These headlights provided brighter and more focused illumination than traditional halogen headlights, improving visibility and safety.

4. Harman Kardon sound system: The E46 M3 was available with an optional Harman Kardon sound system, which featured 10 speakers and a 10-channel amplifier. This system provided high-quality audio performance that was well-suited to the car's sporty character.

BME E46 M3 was a highly advanced car that offered cutting-edge technology and performance features that helped to set it apart from other sports cars of its time.

What was the top speed of the E46 M3?

The top speed of the BMW E46 M3 varies slightly depending on the model year and transmission type, but generally, it is electronically limited to 155 mph (250 km/h). However, some owners have reported achieving higher top speeds with modifications or under ideal driving conditions. It's worth noting that while high top speeds can be impressive, they are not necessarily indicative of a car's overall performance capabilities, which can also be influenced by factors such as acceleration, handling, and braking.

What is the acceleration time of the E46 M3?

The acceleration time of the BMW E46 M3 varies slightly depending on the model year and transmission type, but generally, it can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in around 5 seconds. This makes it one of the fastest-accelerating cars of its time and a highly capable sports car in terms of performance. It's worth noting that the E46 M3's acceleration performance was also affected by factors such as the driver's skill, road conditions, and the car's maintenance and modifications. Nonetheless, the E46 M3's acceleration time was highly regarded and remains impressive even by today's standards.

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