The E46 3 Series was the successor to the E36 3 Series, whose manufacturing terminated in 2000, and is the fourth generation of the BMW 3 Series line of small executive automobiles. It was manufactured by the German automaker BMW from 1997 to 2006. The E46 was first made available in sedan, coupe, convertible, station wagon, and hatchback body styles in November 1997. The 3 Series Compact has been the name given to the latter.
The 2-door coupe version of the M3 performance variant debuted in June 2000, while the convertible version debuted in April 2001. The BMW S54 straight-six engine powers the M3, which has a 6-speed manual or 6-speed SMG-II automated manual transmission as an option.
After the E90 3 Series sedans were released in late 2004, the E46 lineup began to be phased out. The E46 coupe and convertible body types, however, were still manufactured up until August 2006.
In This Article...
Generation E46 of the BMW 3 Series
The fourth generation of the BMW 3 Series, the BMW E46, was created between 1997 and 2006.
“Just take a ride in the new 3-Series, the distilled of all the charms of the Munich brand, to comprehend what BMW is!” It doesn’t seem unreasonable for journalists from the Austrian motor magazine Autorevue to praise the latest generation E46 3-series. There was no denying that BMW engineers had created another masterpiece. It suffices to recall that the 3-Series rose to the third-most popular vehicle in Germany after the results of 1999. not in its segment, but in terms of sheer quantity! The outcome was just amazing for the premium segment’s non-priced product.
The valvetronic variable valve timing system and the first direct injection diesel BMW are the major characteristics.
The E46 was often referred to as the “vehicle without flaws,” and it all started with a stunning design. The renowned Chris Bangl has recently joined the design team, which has carefully and softly revised the appearance of the previous “three” iteration. Twin circular headlights behind clear dispensers, branded Bavarian nostrils that have become a part of the hood, and a more sloping roof line have all contributed to the creation of a classic, timeless appearance that still appears current today.
The E46 has once again grown more spacious thanks to the new design, which skillfully hides the 3 Series’ noticeably expanded dimensions. The “3 Series” was able to maintain its original weight thanks to the extensive use of cutting-edge materials like steel and aluminum superalloys in the design.
For this reason, the restyled E46, which was debuted in 2001, maintained the appearance of the original, changing only in minor details, such as the shape of the headlights, bumpers, and taillights. A stabilizing system is a component of all modifications’ basic hardware.
But the engine front saw the biggest advancement. BMW unveiled the 316i Compact in 2001 at the Geneva Motor Show, equipped with the ground-breaking Valvetronic variable valve control system that operates without a throttle. Later, the Valvetronic technology was added to the three in different configurations, and eventually to additional BMW models.
What Model To Buy? – Buyer’s Guide For The BMW E46 3 Series
The BMW E46 3 Series is perhaps the first vehicle that springs to mind when you mention the brand BMW to almost anyone. It is without a doubt one of the best-selling model generations in BMW history and one of the most well-known BMWs of all time. Actually, it’s challenging to go a day without spotting one driving about. There is a good reason why they are so well-liked. Probably the best 3 Series ever produced by the Bavarians is the BMW E46.
The Complete Guide To Purchasing A Used BMW 3 Series E46
There are a few things you should be aware of to make a secure purchase if you’re looking to buy a secondhand early 2000s E46s.
Among the most enduring BMW models are the 3 Series versions from the early 2000s. Whether you choose a two-door coupe or a four-door sedan, there are a few aspects about the used 3 Series cars from the early 2000s that you should be aware of.
One of the most popular BMW models in history is the E46. The E46, which was built from 1999 to 2006, restored BMW’s reputation for producing dependable vehicles.
Maintaining an old, used BMW (or any old automobile, for that matter) is the main expense of ownership. While JD Power lists BMW as one of the most dependable automakers currently, there is no getting around old, faulty auto parts. Let’s discuss all you need to know before buying a used BMW 3 Series without further ado.
Owners Hub for BMW E46
The BMW E46, which came in sedan, coupe, hatchback, and wagon body styles, is the fourth generation of the 3-series that was manufactured globally between 1999 and 2006. Later, in 2001, the E46’s M3 version was released as a coupe or a convertible. While the M3 received the cherished 3.2L S54 straight-six in the United States, the E46 was available with a number of other six-cylinder engines. The SMG automated manual transmission, a regular automatic transmission, and five- or six-speed manual transmissions were all options for E46 vehicles. For the first time since the E30, the E46 325xi had AWD as an option, whereas all other E46 models only had power going to the rear wheels. With new models, engines, interior/exterior options (LED taillights being a notable addition), and other features added in the middle of 2003, the E46 received an update.
Genuine, OE, OEM, Aftermarket, and Performance replacement parts for numerous BMW models are available in the online parts catalog from FCP Euro. We only provide the highest quality parts for BMW and provide a variety of BMW DIYs, buyer’s guides, how-tos, and blog articles to help you have the best European automobile ownership experience. Our website was designed with the BMW enthusiast in mind.
Our Lifetime Replacement Guarantee covers all replacement components you purchase, including consumables and wear-and-tear parts like brake pads, gaskets, rotors, filters, and wiper blades. You won’t ever have to pay for the part again after you order it from us.
A vehicle fit for the ages.
A third generation BMW M3—the BMW M3 E46—entered the automobile industry not long after the year 2000. What came next was the continuation of an unheard-of success tale that had begun in 1986 with the traditional M3 E30 and had been strengthened in 1992 by the modern M3 E36. The E46 production code is associated with M3 lovers with three qualities: pure driving enjoyment, seductive sound, and a famous special model.
imported LoKe
The general model number for the current 3 series automobile lineup is E46. Production of the 323i and 328i (sedans) began in 1999, followed by the coupe and sedan 323 and 328 models in 2000, and the 325, 330, and M3 vehicles in 2001. Entwicklung, meaning development (or evolution), is what the German letter E stands for. E36, E30, etc. were the designations for earlier 3 series vehicles.
The 330i, 330ci, 325i, and so on are all merely models that are employed in place of adjectives like “civic” or “fiero.”
What followed the BMW E46?
The BMW 3 Series’ fifth generation began with the BMW E90. By the end of the BMW E46 period in 2002, the 3 Series had already had a facelift with brand-new headlights and taillights.
The BMW E90 3 Series Sedan and E91 Sports Wagon eras began in 2006, respectively. Along with it, the BMW E92 3 Series Coupe and E93 3 Series Convertible were introduced.
The fifth generation of the 3 Series has undergone significant mechanical and aesthetic improvements. First, a dimension increase was brought on by the switch from the BMW E46 to the E90. The new 3 Series E90 was more balanced because to its wider tracks, bigger wheelbase (1.4 inches wider than E46), and roomier cabin.
How can I identify an E46 BMW?
Although you may have heard a lot of “e” words at your local BMW Service Center, along with potentially some “f” and “s” words, phrases like “e36,” “e60,” and “e28” have specific meanings to BMW mechanics and aficionados. For instance, an e46 is referred to as a 2003 330i. Depending on the look and year of your BMW, these “e” designations are used to define BMW Body style design. Entwicklung, the German term for development or evolution when you link the ‘e’, is abbreviated as “E.”
If you don’t understand any of these terms, the following list should assist you identify the code name for your BMW.
A classic, the BMW E46?
Are you interested in purchasing a modern classic vehicle? The BMW E46 M3 offers visceral performance thrills at a (now) alluring price and may be exactly what you’re looking for. It is recognized as one of the best M vehicles ever manufactured. Here are some things to keep in mind when looking for one on the used market.
Are 325i’s an E46?
For the 2001 model year, the 325i was a variation of the E46 BMW 3 Series. The 325i was available as a station wagon and sedan.
For the 2001 model year, the 325i was a variation of the E46 BMW 3 Series. The BMW M54B25 engine was used in the 325i, which was available as a sedan or station wagon. This 2.5L inline six engine had manual and automatic transmission choices, producing 184 horsepower in North American specifications and 189 horsepower in Euro specifications. Additionally, the 325Xi, a variant with four-wheel drive, was available. The E46 325i was manufactured until 2005, however the model series would live on in the E90 BMW 3 Series, the following generation.
A: On July 27, 2022, a 2001 BMW 325i Sport Wagon 6-Speed sold for the highest amount ever reported at $40,000.
A 2001 BMW 325iT Sports Wagon sold for $4,789 on June 6, 2022, according to sales data.
What distinguishes the BMW E90 from the E46?
Finally, we’re getting to the genuine comparison of the two vehicles. The purpose of the aforementioned was to set up the remaining subjects. We will compare the E46 and E90 in general terms. However, there are numerous models and engines to choose from, as seen above. As a result, not every model will necessarily be covered by the generalizations. As an illustration, the E46 330i ZHP performs better than the E90 325i.
Nevertheless, the E90 excels in terms of performance overall. In comparison to the E46, the E90 has higher power, torque, and faster acceleration. The E90 transmissions also shift more smoothly and a little quicker. True performance aficionados, though, might prefer the manual transmissions. Although manuals are a declining breed, the E90 and E46 both have a wide selection of them.
Additionally, the E90 has a wide range of engine options. For the US market, BMW’s E46 is equipped with just straight-6 naturally aspirated engines. That may or may not be a good thing. especially considering how well regarded BMW’s inline-6 engines are. The E90s, however, come with a 4.0L V8 for the M3 and normally aspirated inline 6, single and twin turbo inline 6, and inline 6 engines. The E46 generation cannot compare to the power and performance of the N54, N55, and S65.