Market Position:
The E46 M3 represented the pinnacle of BMW's performance sedan/coupe offerings for its era, targeting driving enthusiasts who prioritized performance, handling, and luxury.
Competitive Analysis:
Competed directly with high-performance sports coupes and sedans like the Mercedes-Benz C32 AMG, Audi RS4 (though later generations), and Porsche 911 (in spirit and performance envelope).
Key Features:
Naturally aspirated S54 inline-six engine, M-tuned suspension and chassis, powerful M-specific braking system, limited-slip differential, sport seats, distinctive M styling cues.
Systems Covered:
Vehicle operation, safety systems, climate control, infotainment, maintenance checks, fluid levels, tire pressure, lighting, instrument cluster, warning indicators, vehicle settings, emergency procedures, basic troubleshooting.
Procedures Included:
Daily checks, fluid top-offs (oil, coolant, washer fluid), tire inflation, changing wiper blades, basic bulb replacement, key fob operation, seat adjustment, climate control operation, radio functions, navigation system basics (if equipped), interior/exterior lighting functions, fuel filling procedures, emergency tire repair kit usage (if equipped).
Technical Depth:
User-focused operational and maintenance guidance, not a repair or service manual. Covers owner-level maintenance and understanding vehicle functions.
Engine Configuration:
Inline 6-cylinder, Naturally Aspirated
Displacement:
3.2 Liters (3246 cc)
Horsepower:
333 hp @ 7900 rpm
Torque:
262 lb-ft @ 4900 rpm
Redline:
8000 rpm (with VANOS) / 8400 rpm (activation limit)
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) with individual throttle bodies (ITBs)
Recommended Fuel:
Premium Unleaded (91 Octane or higher)
Valve Train:
Double Overhead Camshafts (DOHC), 4 valves per cylinder with Double VANOS (variable valve timing)
Transmission Type:
6-speed Manual (Getrag Type D)
Transmission Type:
SMG (Sequential Manual Gearbox) - Electrohydraulically Actuated Automated Manual Transmission
Clutch:
Hydraulic, Single Plate Dry Clutch
Differential:
M Variable Lock Differential (M LSD) with 25% lockup
Length:
Coupe: 176.9 inches (4493 mm), Convertible: 177.4 inches (4506 mm)
Width:
Coupe: 68.5 inches (1739 mm), Convertible: 68.6 inches (1742 mm)
Height:
Coupe: 53.4 inches (1356 mm), Convertible: 53.2 inches (1351 mm)
Wheelbase:
107.5 inches (2730 mm)
Curb Weight:
Coupe: ~3460 lbs (1569 kg), Convertible: ~3700 lbs (1678 kg)
NHTSA Front Impact:
4-Star Driver / 4-Star Passenger (for E46 3-Series chassis, M3 specific data may vary)
IIHS Side Impact:
Good (for E46 3-Series chassis)
Active Safety Systems:
ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), DSC (Dynamic Stability Control) with M Dynamic Mode, M Servotronic Steering (speed-sensitive).
Airbags:
Front dual-stage airbags, front side-impact airbags.
Seatbelts:
3-point inertia-reel seatbelts with pretensioners and force limiters.
Structure:
Reinforced chassis and body structure with crumple zones.
Head Unit:
BMW Business CD or Professional RDS CD Player with optional CD changer.
Navigation:
Optional BMW Navigation System with trunk-mounted CD-ROM drive.
Audio System:
Optional Harman Kardon sound system.
Cruise Control:
Standard electronic cruise control.
Parking Assistance:
Optional rear parking sensors (Park Distance Control - PDC).
Phone Integration:
Optional Bluetooth hands-free interface with cradle.
Climate Control:
Automatic climate control with A/C and recirculation mode.
Seats:
Optional heated sport seats with power adjustment and driver's memory.
Oil Change Interval:
BMW Condition Based Service (CBS) system, typically around 10,000-15,000 miles or annually, depending on driving conditions.
Insp 1 Service:
Inspection I (minor service) typically around 20,000-30,000 miles, includes spark plugs, cabin filter, air filter, brake fluid flush.
Insp 2 Service:
Inspection II (major service) typically around 50,000-60,000 miles, includes valve adjustment (critical for S54), differential fluid change, coolant flush.
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 10W-60 Synthetic (BMW M TwinPower Turbo SAE 10W-60 recommended for optimal performance and protection, though earlier recommendations might vary slightly).
Engine Oil Capacity:
6.9 US quarts (6.5 Liters)
Coolant Type:
BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48 ethylene glycol based)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 (BMW recommends DOT 4 PLUS or equivalent)
Transmission Fluid Type Manual:
BMW MTF-LT-2 (Manual Transmission Fluid - Longlife Transmission)
Differential Fluid Type:
SAE 75W-140 Synthetic (BMW Hypoid Gear Oil)
Rod Bearings:
Increased wear on rod bearings, especially if oil changes are neglected or high RPMs are sustained without proper warm-up. Critical to monitor and replace preventatively.
Subframe Mounts:
Cracking or separation of rear subframe mounting points due to chassis stress.
Vanos Solenoids:
Degradation or failure of VANOS solenoids can lead to rough idle, loss of power, and engine codes.
Cooling System:
Plastic coolant expansion tanks can become brittle and crack over time. Water pumps and thermostat failures are also common.
Oil Consumption:
The S54 engine can consume oil between changes; regular checking is important.
Bmw M Division:
BMW M GmbH, founded in 1972, is renowned for its motorsport heritage and development of high-performance vehicles.
E46 M3 Introduction:
The E46 M3 was introduced in 2000 for the 2001 model year, succeeding the E36 M3. It was a significant leap in performance and technology.
Production Years:
2000-2006 (model years 2001-2006)
Manufacturing Locations:
Regensburg, Germany
Special Editions:
M3 CSL (Coupe Sport Lightweight) variant introduced in 2003 for select markets.
Car And Driver 10Best:
The E46 chassis 3-Series models, including the M3's lineage, frequently appeared on Car and Driver's 10Best lists, highlighting its driving dynamics.
Motor Trend Car Of The Year:
While not winning directly, the E46 M3 was a strong contender and highly praised by MotorTrend during its production run.
Performance Reviews:
Universally acclaimed by automotive press for its exceptional engine, handling, and driver engagement.
