B
BMW M3 (E46)Photography coming soon
Peak naturally aspirated M. The S54 inline-6 revving to 8000rpm is considered the finest engine BMW ever built. The benchmark sports coupe of the 2000s.
History
The E46 M3 was the sweet spot — more refined than the E36, more analog than the V8 E92 that followed. The CSL variant with its carbon roof became an instant legend. Every sports sedan since has been compared to it.
Production & Heritage
Production Total85,766
DesignerBMW M GmbH
Production Period2000–2006
Estimated Value$35K–$70K
Value estimates are editorial assessments based on recent auction results and market trends.
Technical Specifications
Engine3.2L Inline-6 (S54B32)
Power343 hp @ 7,900 rpm
Torque365 Nm
0–60 mph4.8 sec
Top Speed250 km/h (Electronically limited)
Transmission6-speed manual (Getrag 420G)
DrivetrainRWD
Weight1,570 kg
Drag CoefficientCd 0.32
BodySteel unibody
Engine Details
Engine CodeS54B32
Displacement3.2L (3,246 cc)
Bore x Stroke87 x 91 mm
Compression11.5:1
Valves4 per cylinder (24 total)
Fuel SystemSiemens MSS 54 individual throttle bodies
Performance
0–100 km/h4.8 sec
0–60 mph4.8 sec
Top Speed250 km/h (Electronically limited)
Weight-to-Power4.6 kg/hp
Dimensions
Length4,492 mm
Width1,773 mm
Height1,372 mm
Wheelbase2,731 mm
Chassis & Suspension
Front SuspensionMacPherson strut, coil springs, anti-roll bar
Rear SuspensionMulti-link, coil springs, anti-roll bar
Front BrakesVentilated disc 325mm
Rear BrakesVentilated disc 328mm (floating)
SteeringRack and pinion, engine-speed-sensitive power-assist
Tires (Front)225/45 ZR18
Tires (Rear)255/40 ZR18
Capacity
Fuel Tank63 L
Doors2
Seats4
Source: auto-data.net, BMW Group Archive
