1998-2006 3 Series OverviewBMW 3 Series Overview (1998 - 2006)
E46
Tech Specs Summary
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- 124 - 183 mph
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- 4.7 - 12.4 seconds
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- 104 - 375 BHP
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- 20.8 - 50.4 mpg
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- 1,350 - 1,780 kg
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- 310 - 1,100 L (Hatchback)
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- 300 L (Convertible)
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- 410 L (Coupé)
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- 440 L (Saloon)
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- 435 - 1,345 L (Estate)
This generation of the BMW 3 Series (E46) was produced by the German manufacturer BMW between 1998 - 2006. It's a front engined car with either rear-wheel drive or all-wheel drive and came as a hatchback, convertible, coupé, saloon or estate. There are many power levels available, ranging from a 104 BHP 1.8 L Inline 4 petrol engine all the way to a 375 BHP 4 L V8 petrol engine. It has macpherson strut front suspension and multi-link rear suspension.
Performance Pick
If you're interested in performance, the best performance version of the 3 Series is the BMW M3 GTR Straßenversion which scores 3.8★ on the encyCARpedia Rating system for performance. With total power at 375 BHP and a power/weight ratio of 278 BHP/Tonne it has a top speed of 183 mph and gets to 62 mph in 4.7 seconds.
Practicality Pick
If you're more interested in practicality, then the BMW 318d touring is the best practical all-rounder with a score of 3.6★ on the encyCARpedia Rating system for practicality. It has a range of 698 miles and can store 435-1,345 litres of cargo. It also has a towing capacity of 1,600 kg.
Euro NCAP Results
