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.
In This Article...
a simple starting point tutorial that is quick and straightforward…
Although your vehicle’s model number is prominently badged on the back of your BMW, internal classifications into E/F and G model codes also exist. The body style, model, and approximate age can typically be determined by specialists or dealers using this three-digit combination.
You can find the model code for your BMW E, F, or G using this short list. The car will always be referred to on our website (in any article or explanation) using the main body code.
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.
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 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.
Which BMW model is an E46?
The BMW E46, the successor of the E36, whose manufacturing terminated in 2000, 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.
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 BMW E46 vehicles good?
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.
A sports car is an E46, right?
When it was introduced in 2000, the BMW M3 E46 Coupe swept true sports car enthusiasts off their feet. For many people, it represented a return to the strengths of the venerable BMW M3 E30 thanks to its low weight design and the high-rev philosophy of its inline 6-cylinder engine. The year after, a convertible was produced, offering an unusual fusion of open-top luxury and a sporty driving experience.
Which engine powers the E46?
Counting Doors:
Wheelbase:
Length:
Width:
Height :
Counting Seats:
Cx, the aerodynamic drag coefficient
Front brakes: size of the discs
Dimensions of rear brakes with dics:
Front tires’ rim measurements:
Size of the rear tires and rims:
Bench Weight:
Ratio of weight to power output:
Boot / Trunk capacity:
Suspension up front:
Suspension in back:
What kind of engine powers the BMW E46 325i? A 2494 cm3 / 152.2 cu-in inline 6-cylinder petrol engine powers the BMW E46 3 Series 325i.
A 2001 BMW E46 3 Series 325i has how many horsepower (hp). 192 PS/189 bhp/141 kW are the power ratings for the 2001 BMW E46 3 Series 325i.
What is the weight of a BMW E46 325i? 1395 Kg (3075 lbs) is the weight of the BMW E46 3 Series 325i.
How fast can a BMW E46 3 Series 325i go? The maximum speed of the BMW E46 3 Series 325i is 240 Km/h (149 mph).
Does the BMW E46 325i have all-wheel drive (AWD)? The BMW E46 325i does not have all-wheel drive. Rear wheel drive is used.
Is an E46 an ideal first vehicle?
The E46’s fundamental simplicity makes for easy learning. Despite certain more serious problems, such as those with the subframe or lifter-tick, they are mechanically fairly reliable. I haven’t encountered many problems, aside from the typical maintenance requirements of any car beyond 185,000 miles.
Which E46 year is the best?
The M3 E46 has VANOS, or variable valve timing, to change cam and valve timing across a wide RPM range.
When you test-drive your potential E46 M3, be on the lookout for the following signs: a lack of power at lower rpms, sluggish acceleration, a harsh idle, and a lengthy cold-start. All of those can be an indication of Vanos issues.
The VANOS system contains numerous components that regularly malfunction, including:
- Oil Pump VANOS
- SOLENOID VANOS
- Bolts for camshaft sprockets
- Combustion Camshaft Hub
Depending on the cause, replacement costs can range, however if you need to replace the entire unit with a rebuilt unit, it might cost around $1800.
What does E46’s E stand for?
The German word Entwicklung, which means development, is represented by the letter E in the E-number. E numbers are the manufacturing code numbers assigned to newly developed automobiles before their official sales name has been determined.
What does standard E46 mean?
A high level of chassis performance and adaptability are combined with vehicle equality in the Spec E46 racing series to maximize driver involvement. The objective of Spec E46 does not include engine development over a stock power level. The series is accessible to cars with BMW E46 chassis and 330 USDM.
Why is the E46 the best?
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.