01 · Überblick
The golden mean
The third M3 is considered by many to be the most well-rounded: the S54 inline-six produces 343 PS at 7,900/min from 3.2 litres — naturally aspirated, with individual throttle bodies and an 8,000rpm rev range. Add to that a manual gearbox or the sequential SMG II, a limited-slip differential, and bodywork that clearly distinguishes itself from the series Coupé with widened fenders and a power dome.
It was built from September 2000 to August 2006 as a Coupé and Convertible — there was no Sedan in this generation. It formed the basis for the radical CSL, the Competition package, and the V8 homologation exotic, the GTR.
02 · Historie
Six years, three derivatives
- 2000 Market launch of the Coupé in September with the new S54 — 343 PS instead of the predecessor's 321.
- 2001 The Convertible follows; in parallel, BMW homologates the V8 GTR for its American Le Mans Series campaign.
- 2003 The CSL takes the concept to the extreme: 110 kg lighter, 360 PS, 1,383 units.
- 2004 In December, the Competition package (ZCP) appears with CSL-derived features for the series Coupé.
- 2006 In August, production ends after 85,766 units.
03 · Karosserievarianten
Karosserievarianten
Coupé
The core form: widened fenders, power dome, four exhaust tips. 56,133 units.
Cabrio
With a classic soft top, around 130 kg heavier. 29,633 units.
04 · Motoren
S54B32 geprüft
The final stage of the M inline-six with individual throttle bodies: a high-revving concept with double VANOS. In the CSL, with 360 PS.
Technische Daten anzeigen
| Hubraum | 3.246 cm³ |
| Leistung | 343 PS (252 kW) at 7,900/min |
| Drehmoment | 365 Nm at 4,900/min |
| Bauart | Inline-six, naturally aspirated, individual throttle bodies, double VANOS |
Wikipedia EN, BMW M3
05 · Technik
Technik
SMG II
Chassis and brakes
06 · Sondermodelle
Sondermodelle
Three derivatives, three characters: lightweight construction, sharpening, homologation.
M3 CSL (2003)
360 PS, 1,385 kg, carbon roof and semi-slicks from the factory — 1,383 units.
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M3 Competition (2004)
ZCP package with 19-inch wheels, quicker steering and larger brakes.
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M3 GTR (2001)
The only E46 with a V8 — a homologation model for the American Le Mans Series.
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07 · Kaufberatung
Buying advice in brief
Classic issues are the S54’s conrod bearings and cracks at the rear axle mounts on the body — check both before buying, or purchase only with documented repairs.
08 · Die Konkurrenz
Die Konkurrenz
Porsche 911 Carrera (996)
The benchmark for driving experience — the M3 countered with everyday usability and price.
Audi RS4 (B5)
Twin-turbo all-wheel-drive model with 380 PS, but as an Avant, a different concept.
09 · Galerie
The M3 Convertible
Photos of an M3 Convertible from the E46 model line. Images: MOTORSPORT24.
10 · Quellen