Segment:
High-performance compact executive car
Target Audience:
Enthusiasts, DIY mechanics, professional repair shops specializing in BMW
Competitors 2002:
Mercedes-Benz C32 AMG, Audi S4 (B5), Cadillac CTS-V (later)
Performance Focus:
Track-inspired engineering, potent engine, balanced chassis, driver engagement
Value Proposition:
Empowers owners and technicians with factory-level repair knowledge, reducing reliance on dealerships and third-party specialists.
Primary Focus:
Service, Repair, Maintenance, Diagnostics, Troubleshooting
Secondary Focus:
Component Removal & Installation, Electrical Schematics, Technical Specifications
Type:
Official Factory Service Manual / Workshop Manual
Powertrain:
Engine (S54), VANOS, Intake System, Fuel System, Exhaust System, Cooling System, Lubrication System
Drivetrain:
Transmission (SMG / Manual), Clutch, Driveshafts, Differential, Axles
Suspension Steering:
Front & Rear Suspension, Steering System, Power Steering
Brakes:
Brake System (ABS, DSC), Brake Calipers, Rotors, Lines, Parking Brake
Electrical:
Battery, Charging System, Ignition System, Lighting, Instrument Cluster, ECUs, DME, SMG Control Unit, Wiring Diagrams
Body:
Body Panels, Doors, Windows, Locks, Exterior Trim, Interior Trim, Seats, Roof Panel (Convertible)
HVAC:
Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning System
Maintenance:
Oil Changes, Filter Replacements, Spark Plug Replacement, Coolant Flush, Brake Fluid Flush, Inspection Intervals
Repair:
Engine Rebuild, Transmission Overhaul, Suspension Component Replacement, Brake System Repair, Electrical Component Diagnosis & Replacement
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting Engine Performance, ABS/DSC Faults, SMG Issues, Electrical Gremlins, Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs)
Disassembly Assembly:
Step-by-step instructions for component removal and installation
Depth:
Comprehensive: From basic fluid changes to full engine and transmission rebuilds, including electrical diagnostics with wiring schematics.
Engine Type:
Naturally Aspirated Inline 6-cylinder
Displacement:
3.2 Liters (3246 cc)
Bore X Stroke:
87.0 mm x 91.0 mm
Compression Ratio:
11.5:1
Valvetrain:
DOHC, 24 Valves, Double VANOS
Horsepower:
333 hp @ 7900 rpm (US Market)
Torque:
262 lb-ft @ 4900 rpm (US Market)
Induction:
Individual Throttle Bodies (ITBs)
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-point Fuel Injection (Bosch Motronic ME7.2)
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded (91+ Octane Recommended)
Type:
6-Speed Manual (Getrag 420G)
Type:
6-Speed Sequential Manual Gearbox (SMG II)
Clutch:
Hydraulically operated single-plate dry clutch
Gear Ratios Manual:
1st: 4.23:1, 2nd: 2.50:1, 3rd: 1.67:1, 4th: 1.24:1, 5th: 1.00:1, 6th: 0.83:1, Reverse: 3.90:1
Smg Features:
Paddle shifters, adjustable shift programs (Sport, Super Sport), launch control
Manual Transmission Fluid:
BMW MTF-LT-2 (or equivalent synthetic gear oil, e.g., Castrol BOT 328)
Smg Hydraulic Fluid:
Pentosin CHF 11S
Length:
177.7 in (4513 mm)
Height:
53.7 in (1365 mm) (Coupe) / 54.4 in (1382 mm) (Convertible)
Wheelbase:
107.5 in (2732 mm)
Front Track:
58.7 in (1491 mm)
Rear Track:
59.0 in (1500 mm)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 3450-3570 lbs (1565-1620 kg) depending on body style and transmission
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Approx. 4343 lbs (1970 kg)
Trunk Volume:
11.0 cu ft (Coupe) / 12.4 cu ft (Convertible - top up)
NHTSA Front Impact:
4-star (Driver), 5-star (Passenger)
Traction Control:
Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) with M Dynamic Mode (MDM)
Braking System:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist
Headlights:
Xenon Adaptive Headlights (Optional)
Airbags:
Frontal airbags, Side-impact airbags
Seatbelts:
Three-point inertia-reel seat belts with front-seat pretensioners and force limiters
Chassis Structure:
Reinforced body structure, crumple zones
Head Unit:
BMW Business CD or Professional CD/RDS radios, optional Navigation system (MKIII)
Audio System:
Harmon Kardon premium audio system (optional)
Cruise Control:
Standard electronic cruise control
Parking Sensors:
Park Distance Control (PDC) - optional
Telematics:
BMW Assist (telematics system, subscription based)
Oil Service:
Condition Based Service (CBS) system, typically every 10,000-15,000 miles or annually. Check OBC (On-Board Computer) for specific interval.
Spark Plugs:
Every 60,000 miles (NGK BKR6EQUP recommended)
Air Filters:
Inspect every oil service, replace as needed or every 30,000 miles.
Brake Fluid:
Every 2 years (DOT 4)
Coolant:
BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant, flush and replace every 4 years.
Engine Oil:
SAE 10W-60 (BMW Longlife-01 specification recommended, e.g., Castrol TWS Motorsport)
Engine Oil Capacity:
6.5 Liters (6.9 US Quarts)
Power Steering Fluid:
Pentosin CHF 11S
Differential Fluid:
SAE 75W-90 (API GL-5), limited slip differential oil required.
Rod Bearings:
Potential wear due to oil type and lubrication during break-in. Many owners opt for upgraded bearings.
Vanos Seals:
Failure of the primary and secondary VANOS piston seals can lead to loss of low-end torque and rough idle.
Smg Pump:
SMG hydraulic pump failure or leaks, causing shifting issues. Accumulator can also fail.
Subframe Mounts:
Cracking or separation of rear subframe mounting points due to chassis stress.
Throttle Actuators:
Failure of individual throttle body actuators can cause rough running or loss of power.
Bmw Motorsport:
Established in 1972, BMW M GmbH is BMW's performance division, renowned for motorsport success and road-going performance vehicles.
E30 M3:
Iconic first-generation M3 (1986-1991), homologation special for racing.
E36 M3:
Second generation (1992-1999), more refined and powerful, introduced various engine iterations.
E46 M3:
Third generation (2000-2006), considered by many as the pinnacle of naturally aspirated M cars, featuring the S54 engine.
E46 M3 Variants:
Available as Coupe and Convertible, with optional SMG II transmission.
Production Years:
2000-2006
Manufacturing Location:
Regensburg, Germany
Car And Driver:
Car and Driver 'Ten Best' list multiple times (e.g., 2001, 2002, 2003)
Road And Track:
Frequently praised by automotive journalists for its driving dynamics and engine performance.
Emissions:
Meets EPA and CARB emission standards for its model year.
