Both coupe and convertible body types were produced for the E46 3 Series M3 model. With either the manual or SMG-II gearbox, the E46 M3’s S54 straight-six engine accelerates the coupe from 0 to 100 kilometers per hour (62 mph) in 5.1 seconds. The coupe and convertible both achieved 0.89g on the skidpad when cornering. 250 km/h is the electronically capped top speed (155 mph). 1,570 kg is the kerb weight (3,461 lb). [Reference needed]
Both the Getrag 420G 6-speed manual transmission and the SMG-II 6-speed automated manual transmission were choices for the available transmissions. The SMG-clutch II’s was electrohydraulically actuated, and either the shift lever or steering-wheel-mounted paddles could be utilized to change gears. Although the SMG-II was hailed for its quick shift times and performance on the racetrack, some individuals complained that its shifts lurched and were delayed in stop-start traffic.
A total of 56,133 coupes and 29,633 convertibles were produced for the E46 M3. Production of the vehicles, for a total of 85,766 vehicles, ran from September 2000 to August 2006 at the BMW Regensburg factory in Germany.
To test the viability of developing an M3 model on the already-existing E46 station wagon platform (particularly the integration of the M3’s bigger rear wheel arches onto the wagon body), an M3 Touring station wagon prototype was created. The prototype was never produced.
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Numbers of BMW E46 M3s produced
A total of 85,766 BMW E46 M3s were made, including 29,633 convertibles and 56,133 coupes.
It was produced from 2000 to 2006, when the contentious V8-powered E90 took its place. Over 14,000 more units were produced overall than the E36 M3 that came before it and more than five times as many as the E30 M3 from the 1980s.
The E46 was immensely popular from the start and is still so thanks to its timeless looks. A short search of our favorite used car sales websites reveals a variety of vehicles for sale, with beginning bids as low as $12,000 in the US and PS10,000 in the UK. Excellent, a reasonably priced M vehicle; time to get the wallet out.
But wait, we ought to be aware by now that, in the world of investing in cars, if something seems too good to be true, it probably is. You’ll need to look a little closer and delve a little further if you’re considering one of them for financial purposes.
Production data for standard models of the BMW E46 M3
In comparison to the 63,426 E46 M3 cars produced for North America, 5,300 E30 M3 models were made for the continent.
E46 M3: Is it uncommon?
BMW M3 GTR E46 was introduced in February 2001 and was the first M3 in the brand’s history to be powered by a V8.
Released in February 2001, the BMW M3 GTR of the E46 generation was the first M3 in the brand’s history to be powered by a V8. The primary justification for the M3 GTR’s release was that, in order to compete in the American Le Mans series (ALMS), the car had to be made available in a specific quantity for a specific period of time prior to the start of the racing season.
And because the Le Mans M3 GTR had a V8, the road car likewise had a V8 under its hood.
BMW offered 10 road GTR variants for sale at a price of 250 000 euros apiece following the 2001 racing season in order to satisfy all requirements.
The P60 engine in the road version of the car produced 380 horsepower at 7,000 rpm and was fitted with a dry sump lubrication system. A 6-speed manual transmission with a sports double-disc clutch and an M-differential with variable degree of lock delivered all power to the wheels.
The automobile received a very durable chassis and sports suspension settings from the race version. Compared to the stock M3, the GTR variant was also somewhat subdued. Two spacers that were inserted between the front and back cups, respectively, provided the body with additional rigidity. The front, back, and rear wing were all altered to increase downforce and enhance aerodynamics.
The automobile has additional benefits as a result of its large weight reduction. Like the racing version, the roof, rear spoiler, hood, and bumper vents were all made of carbon fiber reinforced plastic.
To cut weight, the GTR’s interior has also been modified. The back sofa was eliminated, leather-upholstered Recaro racing seats were fitted, and exclusive M3 GTR sill pads were added.
What makes the E46 M3 unique?
The internal motorsport section of BMW produced the BMW E46 M3, which is the high-performance variant of the E46 3-series. It was first only made as a coupe, but a convertible version was later added. During its premiere, it won over the hearts of true sports car aficionados right away. It resembled the classic BMW M3 E30 in terms of its lightweight design and high-revving inline-6 engine.
Due to its elegance, allure, and general design, the E46 generation has since been regarded as the best M vehicle ever produced. For a while, the E46’s excitement was quite consistent, but it has recently returned to the forefront, and the desire for this car is once again on the rise. In light of this, we are here to explain why the E46 M3 is the greatest M3 money can currently buy if you are in the market for one.
What are the E46 M3’s “Big 3”?
Even though the BMW E46 M3 with the S54 engine is a very strong and capable car, it does have several significant flaws. When discussing maintenance for your E46, “The Big 3” are frequently mentioned. Rod bearings, a rebuilt VANOS, and subframe reinforcement make up the Big 3.
E46 M3 – is it collectible?
Looking back at what this model offers, it’s simple to understand why the BMW E46 M3 is gradually growing in popularity as a collectable.
Some of the craziest cars ever produced were first created in Germany. Mercedes-Benz created the crazy 300 SL Gullwing in the 1950s; it is now valued as hundreds of thousands of dollars. Porsche released its divisive Carrera GT in more recent years. But for the past 35 years, one Munich-based automaker has captured the public’s attention with a single model.
One German-built automobile, the BMW M3, stands out among the rest. Gearheads have had the opportunity to witness this German Shepherd annihilate rival sports cars both on and off the track since 1986. The E46 M3 is still one of the coolest M3s ever produced, despite the fact that it may not be among the most significant automobiles in BMW’s history. The E46 M3, which is sandwiched between the brutal E36 and the muscular E90 M3, is nevertheless a fantastic high-end sports coupe.
The E46 M3 has how much horsepower?
The 3.2 liter inline-six engine that powered the E46 M3 produced 333 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque. Its top speed of 155 mph was electronically controlled, and it could go from 0 to 60 mph in 5.1 seconds. One of the best I6s BMW has ever produced is the one in the E46 M3. The 3.2 liter engine screams across the rev range with smooth and linear power thanks to Double VANOS variable valve timing and a redline of 7,900 rpm. Additionally, it sounds wonderful while doing it.
The E46 M3: Is it a classic?
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.
The E46 M3 is it increasing?
Are E46 M3s appreciating in value? Yes, the value of the BMW E46 M3 is increasing and will continue to do so. If history is any guide, take a look at the BMW E30 325is, a vehicle with comparable high production levels that is starting to appreciate quickly.
Why are E46 M3 prices so high?
Due to the BMW E46 M3’s timeless design, getting one to call your own might be expensive, especially for examples in immaculate condition.
The versatility of this vehicle makes it appealing to a wide range of drivers. The E46 had a wide range of trims and color choices for the exterior and inside, allowing for factory customization. The regular E46 GTR Sport model still serves a useful purpose as a daily driver even though it was used in racing competitions in the early 2000s.
The passion for BMW E46 M3s also contributes to their increasing value over time. If you already own one, that’s fantastic news, but if you’re seeking to acquire one, the potential hole in your wallet will only widen. Buildjournal states that an E46 typically costs around $26,000. It was little over $19,000 in 2016. And those are for models with a significant amount of miles on them. Expect to pay more for a low-mileage E46 M3 than you would for a brand-new 2022 M4. According to Sports Car Market, a used E46 sold for $84,000 earlier this year, and the limited-edition E46 M3 CSL (Coupe Sport Leichtbau) is expected to sell for over $100,000.
Because the mileage, history, and overall condition are important factors, the price range between E46s is so wide. Be prepared to spend extra money maintaining the automobile, especially if you want to use it frequently. Maintenance costs can add up quickly.
The BMW E46: A potential classic?
The E46 M3 is unquestionably a future classic because to its roaring, high-revving six-cylinder engine, modest yet distinctive appearance, and ideal mix of power and performance.
Will the price of a BMW M3 rise?
The E46 M3’s value has begun to rise in recent years, and this upward trend is anticipated to remain. It’s not the most uncommon M vehicle, but it’s still a highly sought-after model.
These M3s have been affordable enough in recent years to ensure that a large number have ended up in the wrong hands, but as we get past that point, finding excellent, clean specimens will get harder.
If history is any indication, now would be the perfect time to purchase a deal, provided it meets investing standards.
Do E46 M3s have turbochargers?
This gorgeous Laguna Seca blue E46 M3 turbocharged is a performance build that’s on another level, producing over 1000 horsepower.