![e46 m3 specs engine e46 m3 specs engine](https://i.ytimg.com/vi/b_vWyL5rHpw/maxresdefault.jpg)
![e46 m3 specs engine e46 m3 specs engine](http://enthusiastnetwork.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/sites/11/2008/05/0805_02z-2008_BMW_M3_sedan-engine.jpg)
In 2009, Road and Track magazine announced the 2006 M3 with the SMG transmission as its favorite sports car of all time. Power was now at 333 bhp (248 kW 338 PS) due to close-coupled catalytic converters closer to the engine exhaust ports. In the U.S., the E46 M3 came with similar engine output as the European version, unlike in the E36, whose engine was derived from the M50/52 series engine. As with most M engines, the S54 again had 6 independent throttle bodies and this time electronically operated throttles (drive-by-wire throttle with no cable). Shifts are made via the SMG gear knob or the steering wheel mounted paddle shifters. This is the standard 6-speed Getrag transmission with an electrohydraulically actuated clutch (no clutch pedal). The E46 M3 was offered with a standard 6-speed Getrag transmission, but optionally came with a SMG drivelogic transmission (also known as the SMG II). It was only available in coupe and convertible bodies as the saloon version has been dropped. At the time of the car's introduction, this engine had the highest specific output naturally aspirated of any engine ever made by BMW (except in the McLaren F1), producing 343 horsepower (256 kW) and 365 N As an option, there was a 6-speed automated gearbox named SMGII, with a single-clutch system.The E46 M3, first introduced in October 2000, appeared worldwide with the new 3.2 L S54 M-tuned engine. Under the hood, the M3 Cabriolet was fitted with the same 3.2-liter S54 engine mated to a standard 6-speed manual. The dashboard and the center console were the same as for the coupe version. The soft-top was completely retractable behind the rear bench. In the back, there was not too much room for long trips. The front bucket seats were fitted as standard.
![e46 m3 specs engine e46 m3 specs engine](https://cdn.wallpapersafari.com/53/95/Qip9eO.jpg)
Inside, the M3 Convertible offered room for four occupants. From there on there was no other visible reinforcement on top of the body. The car featured a thicker A-pillar to reinforce the bodywork. On the sides, a pair of vents on the front fenders resembled, in a modern way, those found on the glorious BMW 507. Two scoops on the hood allowed a part of the hot air to escape from the engine bay. The big bumper with a lower apron and wide grille was needed to hide the big radiator and various coolers. The aggressive look of the car was due to its rounded parking lights, named “Angel Eyes” even though they looked from the opposing team. While the E30 M3 was built in a little over 17.000 units, the E46 M3 convertible alone was sold in almost 30.000 units. The 2001 M3 (E46) was the third generation. Its commercial success was so big that the car-maker decided to build offer M3 versions for the following 3-Series vehicles. The first generation of the BMW M3 was a race-purpose car built for streets to receive the FIA approval for racing. The third generation of the M3 was built in a choice of two body styles: coupe and convertible.Įven though the convertible was heavier, its performances were no joke.