Background and Identification

The BMW M3 is a high-performance version of the BMW 3 Series developed by BMW’s motorsport division. M3 models have been manufactured for every generation of the BMW 3 Series since 1986 when the E30 M3 was introduced. BMW (Bayerische Motoren Werke AG) is a German international automaker of luxury vehicles and motorcycles. The initial M3 model was available in a coupe body style and a convertible body style was added soon afterward. Compared to the 3 Series vehicles, M3 models include upgrades to engines, handling, brakes, aerodynamics, interior upgrades, and lightweight materials.

M3 vehicles are rear-wheel-drive cars classified as compact executive automobiles. The E46 generation, which was the M3’s third generation, was introduced in 2000 and continued until 2006. The M3 version of the E46 3 Series was manufactured in a coupe and a convertible body style and powered by the S54 straight-six engine. These models included either a six-speed manual or six-speed SMG-II automated manual transmission. The SMG-II transmission used an electro hydraulically-actuated clutch, and gears could be selected with the shifter or paddles mounted on the steering wheel.

56,133 coupes and 29,633 convertibles were produced for the E46 M3 series.

The BMW emblem is generally located in the center of their vehicle’s front end. The emblem includes the letters “BMW” in a black circle surrounding an inner circle made from two white and two blue triangles with the same-colored shape opposite to each other. M3 models also include the name “M3” on the rear of the vehicles.

Technical Specifications

Body and Chassis:

  • Body style:
    • 2-door 2+2 coupé
    • 2-door convertible

Powertrain:

  • Engine:
    • 3.2 L S54 I6
    • 4.0 L P60 V8 (GTR only)
  • Transmission:
    • 6-speed manual
    • 6-speed SMG-II

Dimensions:

  • Wheelbase: 2,720 mm (107 in)
  • Length: 4,490 mm (177 in)
  • Width: 1,780 mm (70 in)
  • Height: 1,370 mm (54 in)

Additional Information