The car has become a replacement for and.
The first version of M3 had a color in a single color - Laguna Seca Blue and externally from other models of 3 series was distinguished by the presence of convexity on the aluminum hood lid (the so-called "Power Dome"), wider wheeled arches, aerodynamic optimized external mirrors, the presence of "Zhabrov" on side wings, exhaust system with four exhaust pipes, convex muscular front bumpers and forged 18- or 19-inch discs.
On the 18-inch M Double Spoke II Alloy wheels with chrome-plated satin trim (8 × 18 front and 9x18 inches back) Dried tires - front 225 / 45ZR18 and back 255 / 40ZR18. Forged 19-inch M Double SPOKE II Wheels Also in matte chrome coating were offered as an option on most markets (8 × 19 in front and 9.5 × 19 Rear) with tires 225 / 40ZR19 in front and 255 / 35ZR19 from behind.
On M3 ZCP CS, the spoke alloy wheels with dimensions of 8 × 19 / 9.5 × 19 were installed.
(as well as the M3 compartment) was offered with a standard 6-speed gearbox, however, it was decided to install and SMG DriveLogic (known as SMG II). In the non-pedal of clutch, the electro-hydraulic manual switching system in the F1 style was proposed, the shifts were performed using the SMG gear knob or the "petals" to switch the gears located on the steering wheel. Also, for the first time for the BMW "Red Zone" on the tachometer was indicated from 8000 rpm.
The M3 E46 was also equipped with dynamic coursework control (DSC) specifically designed for this car, and could be completely disabled (DSC) using the switch on the dashboard.
The standard BMW E46 M3 is equipped with four ventilated brake discs of 12.8-inches in front and 12.9-inch rear.
The interior salon from the interior standard was distinguished on M3 front sport seats M Design, unique leather upholstered skin of Nappa and Impluse fabrics (or Nappa and Alcantara), interior decoration of black gloss, aluminum or wood (eucalyptus), installed 3-spoke steering Wheels with tricolor lines, the presence of "petals" of gear shift, instrument panel with gray decoration, red arrows and a speedometer mark 300 km (180 miles) / hour, the presence of oil temperature sensor, navigation and audio system with large (6.5-inch ) Monitor (optional), CD player (installed standard on North American), bi-xenon headlights and wipers with rain sensors.
Engine
At the time of the car's output to the market, the M3 E46 motor became the most productive "atmospheric" of all ever issued by the company (with the exception of McLaren F1), the engine was produced on a liter of volume more than 100 horsepower.
As in most engines, independent throttle valves were used in S54B32, the work of which was provided by electronic chokes.
Suspension
In E46 M3, the same multi-line suspension design MacPherson, which is installed on the standard E46 is only substantially modified, namely, thick 3-millimeter aluminum stop plates and special bearings, a more reliable subframe taken from the E46 convertible and a larger stabilizer transverse stability (26 mm in front and 21.5 mm rear).
Dimensions
Restyling
Since 2003, M3 E46 has acquired LED adaptive rear lanterns, Control panel automatic climate control, updated color options, and the Assist system and the Bluetooth interface was introduced.
In 2004, there was also an update in the color gamut M3 and the suspension was revised to reduce insufficient turning.
BMW 3 Series E46 debuted in 1998 in the bodies of the 4-door sedan. A year later, Universal (Touring) and coupe were joined to him, and in 2000 - a convertible. A little later, the Compact version appeared, which was accepted with the cool. At one time, the manageability and behavior of BMW 3 E46 were recognized as reference in the class. Troika often won the ratings that estimate the degree of compliance of the expectations and customer satisfaction.
The restyling conducted in 2001 brought minor changes to the front part of the body (headlights updated) and the engine line. The production of BMW 3 E46 was completed in 2005. However, the sports version of M3 still appeared for some time in the price list.
Design and interior
Even today, Troika still admires. Perfectly tailored proportions look fine. Attractive coupe The most aggressive, and the Compact version does not fit into the impeccable model range.
Basic equipment versions BMW. 3 Series E46 (especially first parties) is quite modest. Fortunately, over time, the number of available gadgets grew rapidly. The interior is typical for the Bavarian school: everything is subordinate to the driver, and the quality of the finish is great. Dashboard Clear and concise. Fabric coverage of the seats is well saved even with large runs.
It is a pity that inside is quite closely. Transportation capabilities can be estimated as the average - the volume of the trunk is 440 liters, and in the version of the universal - 435-1345 liters. The most modest hold in the coupe (410 liters), in a compact (310 liters) and in the cabriolet (300 liters).
Special version M3.
After a sufficiently failing m3 of the E36 series, the new generation gave hope for success. The top model was available only in the body coupe and convertible, and certainly stand out against the background of ordinary versions. Equipped with a fantastically sounding row "six" with a capacity of 340 hp M3 accelerated to 100 km / h in less than 5 seconds. Torque was transmitted to rear wheels Through a manual transmission or sequential SMG. Both aggregates have 6 steps. The best of M3 has become a limited version of CSL (1401 copy). It is easier, more powerful (360 hp) and gives even more pleasure driving.
Engines
Gamma power aggregates Very rich. It includes several gasoline and diesel engines with a working volume of 1.8 to 3.2 liters. In addition to rear-wheel drive BMW 3, all-wheel drive versions of XDrive were also offered, which were completed exclusively with 6-cylinder units.
The base engine is not distinguished by the excellent dynamics, so only for calm drivers only. Good choice There will be 2-liter modifications with a capacity of 143 and 150 hp These aggregates allow you to fully disclose the possibilities of the car, without tangible costs. But getting real pleasure from driving is possible only with "six" under the hood. In addition to good dynamics, the owner receives and acceptable reliability.
The six-cylinder engine has a high smoothness of the stroke and torque compared to the turbogo. The 150-strong 320i (170-strong since September 2000) fascinates with its depotable manners. 6-cylinder petrol motor delivers little hassle. For properly operation And timely maintenance Up to 300,000 km have to face only with refusal of air flow sensor, camshaft and crankshaft position sensors, and ventilation valve carter gases. Even a complex system of Valvetronic gas distribution used since September 2000, rarely delivers problems. Often, over time, the pump of the cooling system (pump) begins to leak.
The 3-liter M54 series gasoline motor is the last reliable row "six" BMW. Subsequent aggregates "N series" collected much less positive feedback. M54 has electronic throttle valve, aluminum block with cast-iron liners and the system of changing the phases of gas distribution on both distributive Valah. The only common fault is the blockage of the valve of the ventilation system of crankcase gases. It is worth updating every 2-3 oil replacement.
Diesel motors are traditionally more complicated and more expensive in service, especially equipped with DPF filter. Engine 2.0D (in particular, its 136-strong version) often suffers from failures in the operation of auxiliary equipment, such as turbocharging, fuel injectors And dampers in the intake manifold.
In the diesel line of recommendations, 3-liter aggregates of 184 and 204 hp deserve They provide decent dynamics and are considered fairly reliable. Disadvantages: Higher cost of operation, expensive spare parts and problems with dampers in the intake manifold.
Chassis and transmission
The obedient behavior of the legendary BMW 3 E46 is considered exemplary. The model is capable of much. In this merit of a successful combination of the racks MacPherson in front, multi-type rear suspension, effective brakes, well balanced and informative steering. After restyling, the suspension became somewhat tougher than before.
The feeling of unlimited permissiveness can be fatally dangerous (especially on a slippery road). This was convinced by many drivers who decided to disable the thrust control system at an inappropriate moment (ASC, later DSC).
One of serious problems, which concerns, first of all, powerful sedans and universal: Drawn with the root of the fastening point of the subframe rear axis. The defect is characteristic of cars collected until March 2000. However, when inspected, make sure that there are no cracks on the bottom, and there are no extraneous noises when changing the load.
The durability of the suspension for BMW 3 E46 is the most sore question, which is aggravated by the roads of dubious quality. For the Bavarian 3rd series, the following problems with the chassis are typical: Worn levers and broken back axes, which sometimes do not even withstand even a small load. Loud terrible sounds from the front suspension flashes about wear of the ball supports. They change only assembled with transverse levers. In addition, in age copies, it is often necessary to replace the brake hoses, and tweeted brakes.
Another common problem is a proper differential. If the car pulls when gears switches, then most likely you will need to replace hinges cardanian Vala and semi-axes.
Common problems
Age takes its own. On the old BMW. 3 series E46 The first years of release detects corrosion foci on the edges of body panels: wheel arches, doors, hood and thresholds. The driver's door can be broken. Sometimes refuses the climate control control unit (replacement of about 10,000 rubles).
Conclusion
BMW 3 E46 - very much like drivers who are important to the car management process. E46 is one of the most popular BMW models, so the choice is on secondary market huge. Unfortunately, most of the instances put up for sale are no longer conscious. Often this is the result of poor-quality service, garage tuning or dubious past. To find a good option It will take a lot of time. But the result is worth it.
Test drive August 08, 2008 Fresh Air Music (M3 Convertible)Last generation The Bavarian Supercar has gained another modification. Having lost the roof-reinforced roof, "M3" received a much more interesting folding top, allowing to have, in fact, two cars under one vehicle. A retractable steel roof is capable of only 22 with turn a rapid coupe into an elegant convertible. In addition to the side dish, absolutely new robotic box Transmissions.
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Test Drive December 9, 2007 Race behind the leader (M3 Nordschleife) While alone is involved in a large motor racing, sitting in front of the TV or on the visual rostrum of the car, others seek to personally meet the world of racing. The benefit that such an opportunity is. And not somewhere, but on the legendary highway "Nürburgring", with the help of top-class professionals, former and current champions of various international series of instructors of the driving school "BMW DRIVING EXPERIENCE". The correspondent of "Klakson" was trained in this school ..
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The sports modification of the BMW M3 (E46) debuted in October 2000, and in addition to the version of the coupe, the Bavarian automaker also offered a car in the bodies of a convertible.
By tradition, external distinctive attributes of the BMW M3 E46 model are more aggressive bumpers, side "skirts" and air intakes in the front wings. In addition, the car is put on 19-inch alloy wheels BBS.
Under the hood of the BMW M3 in the Body E46, a new 3.2-liter engine, developing in the European Specification 343 hp And the maximum torque in 365 nm. At the time of his appearance, this engine was the highest performance atmospheric company.
The engine is aggregated or paired with a 6-speed mechanical boxor in a pair with a new robotic transmission SMG DriveLogic, which allows you to switch transmissions using stealing petals.
From the spot until hundreds of BMW M3 E46 Coupe accelerates in 5.1 seconds, and a more severe convertible is required to 5.5 s. Maximum speed The car is limited at 250 km / h, but with optionally deactivated "collar" maximum speed reaches 308 km / h.
Buy BMW M3 E46 in Russia can now at a price of an average of 700,000 to 1,000,000 rubles. Tuning models will be more expensive.
BMW M3 E46 GTR
In February 2001, the light saw racing coupe bmw. M3 GTR in the Body E46, which was equipped with a 4.0-liter V8 engine with a return to 500 "horses". For the American Le Mans Series series (ALMS), 16 such cars were built.
And at the end of the racing season of 2001, the automaker released 10 road modifications BMW M3 (E46) GTR, the price of each of which was 250,000 euros.
Such a car has seriously extended wheeled arches, more massive bumpers, a different hood with additional ventilation holes, a large rear spoiler on the trunk lid, and in the cabin - safety frame and chairs.
BMW M3 E46 CSL
In 2004, the M3 coupe (E46) was acquired by the CSL version, which was released by limited edition in the amount of 1,400 pieces. The car was suggested only two body painting options: Silver Gray Metallic and Black Black Sapphire Metallic.
The basic engine of the model has been subjected to minor upgrades, due to which its power has grown to 360 hp, and only a robotic box remains available as a transmission for BMW M3 CSL.
In addition, the car received reconfigured pendant and steering, reinforced brakes, but the main efforts were thrown into weight cuts. Compared with the usual coupe M3 E46, the CSL version "Lew" is 110 kg - up to 1,385 kilograms.
It was possible to achieve this due to carbon focus, carbon hood and roof, more subtle rear windows, removal of a part of noise insulation from the cabin, as well as the refusal of electrically regulated chairs, navigation, air conditioning and audio system.
Externally, the BMW M3 CSL (E46) can be recognized by front bumper With a splitter and an increased central air intake, another trunk lid with a more pronounced spoiler and 19-inch BBS discs, "shirt" in Michelin Pilot Sport Cup polishes.
The price of the used BMW M3 CSL in Russia is from 2,500,000 to 3,000,000 rubles.
Which was designed to compete in the American Le Man Series (BMW M3 GTR ALMS E46).
History
In 2001, BMW registered the factory team of four cars for speaking in the GT class in the American Le Man Series. Machines, equipped with four-liter V8 with a capacity of 450 hp, in the first year they achieved amazing success: Jorg Muller won the champion title on them in a personal event, and the brand received the designer cup.
During the year, this M3 won on seven of the ten tracks and took six pole positions. Its advantage was so high that other teams turned with a complaint. And not without reason. The essence of the complaint was reduced to the fact that BMW put cars that did not respond to the spirit of the Regulations: despite the fact that it was about M3, the racing GTR was built on the basis of the serial M3, since it carried non-row six, but the V-shaped eight (in the ALMS rules It was indicated that the public version was supposed to be produced at least two continents within 12 months).
Before the 2002 season, Mark made the necessary changes to reassure the organizers. The series went a small limited series M3 GTR for roads common useThereby replacing the coupe.
The price for the car was 250,000 euros
BMW announced the construction of ten BMW M3 GTR E46 for selected clients, but in the same 2002, the American Le Man Series changed the regulations (the requirements of oligation now needed to sell 100 road versions and 1000 engines), and BMW refused to participate in competitions.
Apparently the management of the BMW company decided to regret competitors, which the fact and the case "crushed" pointing to the finger on going confidently to the victory of BMW
In the 2003 season, the same cars did not participate in the American Le Man Series and went to explore the "24 Hours of Nürburgring".
Assessing the possibilities of M3 GTR on the new track, the BMW team returned to the victory and achieved it in 2004 and 2005.
Design
The car was painted in metallic silver (Titanium Silver Metallic), and the design acquired a much more aggressive design.
Body details, such as bumper, roof, hood, trunk with two cooling lines and wings are made of light carbon fiber reinforced plastic (GFP).
In addition, the car was equipped with a double-dipped clutch.
Interior
BMW M3 GTR E46 video
