Page 1 of 1 The E46 M3 coupe, launched in 2000, was one of the most highly anticipated BMW models ever. Following the success of the previous two generations of M3 - production 3 Series models, developed to ultra-high performance standards by BMW M, the Munich-based subsidiary of BMW - the E46 M3 elevated the performance capability even further. Based on the contemporary generation BMW 3 Series coupe, known internally as E46, the M3 begins with a more rigid body structure than even it's highly competent predecessor - a car which in race trim, won the Sports Car GT racing championship 3 years in a row.
A new 3.2-liter inline six-cylinder engine, mated to a six-speed manual transmission, will deliver an estimated 330-horsepower, up from 240 in the previous M3. Torque will increase as well, to an estimated 255 lb.-ft. This will allow the M3 to accelerate from 0 to 60 miles per hour in approximately five seconds. Other technical highlights include double VANOS - infinitely-variable timing control on both intake and exhaust camshafts, individual throttle butterflies for each cylinder with drive-by-wire throttle control and M Dynamic Driving Control, which allows the driver to select a 'sport mode' for the throttle, providing quicker response to throttle inputs.
As is the philosophy with all BMW M cars, any increase in engine performance is matched by increased capability in handling and braking. The M3 sits on 18-inch M-style alloy wheels (8.0-inch wide front and 9.0-inch wide rear), with appropriately sized high-performance tires (225/45 ZR - 18 front and 255/40 ZR -18 rear). A wider rear track than the normal 3 Series coupe, plus the use of aluminium for the front suspension control arms and the rear trailing link assembly both contribute to better handling. The M Dynamic Driving Control, also affects the power assist of the rack and pinion steering. When the 'sport mode' is selected, the power assist is reduced, providing a firmer road feel. Braking continues to be a competitive strength of the M3, thanks to generously-proportioned four-wheel antilock disc brakes - 12.8-inches in front and 12.9-inches in the rear.
While the M3 conceals much of its performance capability by avoiding superfluous body add-ons, there are nonetheless, many distinctive M touches to set it apart from the standard 3 Series coupe. In addition to the 18-inch M-style wheels poised below larger wheel arches, there are the trademark four polished stainless-steel exhausts, vent "gills" in the front fenders and a power dome on the aluminium hood. The special front bumper covering incorporating a deep spoiler with large air intakes and the rear bumper covering incorporating an integrated air diffuser are also M exclusives. Finally, electrically-folding M exterior mirrors, exclusive rocker panel moldings and clear turn signal and side marker lenses help distinguish the M3 from standard 3 Series coupes.
Inside, the M3 gets similar touches which identify it as a member of the M family. Included are exclusive M sport seats with optional electrically-adjustable seat back width, providing a more snug fit in sporty driving situations, M3 lettering on door sills, an M multi-function sports steering wheel and M gauges, including a variable redline tachometer, first introduced on the M5. Page 1 of 1
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The E46 M3 coupe, launched in 2000, was one of the most highly anticipated BMW models ever. Following the success of the previous two generations of M3 - production 3 Series models, developed to ultra-high performance standards by BMW M, the Munich-based subsidiary of BMW - the E46 M3 elevated the performance capability even further. Based on the contemporary generation BMW 3 Series coupe, known internally as E46, the M3 begins with a more rigid body structure than even it's highly competent predecessor - a car which in race trim, won the Sports Car GT racing championship 3 years in a row.