1998-2006 3 Series OverviewBMW 3 Series Overview (1998 - 2006)
E46
Tech Specs Summary
-
- 124 - 183 mph
-
- 4.7 - 12.4 seconds
-
- 104 - 375 hp
-
- 17.3 - 42 mpg
-
- 2,976 - 3,924 lbs
-
- 15.5 ft3 (Sedan)
-
- 14.5 ft3 (Coupé)
-
- 10.6 ft3 (Convertible)
-
- 15.4 - 47.5 ft3 (Wagon)
-
- 10.9 - 38.8 ft3 (Hatchback)
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 sedan, coupé, convertible, wagon or hatchback. There are many power levels available, ranging from a 104 hp 1.8 L Inline 4 gasoline engine all the way to a 375 hp 4 L V8 gasoline 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 hp and a power/weight ratio of 7.94 lb/hp 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 15.4-47.5 cubic feet of cargo. It also has a towing capacity of 3,527 lbs.
Euro NCAP Results
