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BMW 3 Series Convertible (E46) 330Ci (225 Hp) (USA)
Overall Rating
BMW 3 Series:
The BMW 3 series is a line of compact executive cars manufactured by the German automaker BMW since May 1975. It is the successor to the 02 series and has been produced in seven generations.
The first generation of the 3 Series was only available as a 2-door saloon; the model range expanded to include a 4-door saloon, 2-door convertible, 2-door coupé, 5-door estate, 5-door liftback and 3-door hatchback body styles. Since 2013, the coupé and convertible models have been marketed as the 4 Series; these styles no longer being included in the 3 Series....(Read more on Wikipedia)
Convertible (E46) Overview:
BMW 3 Series (Convertible (E46)). With 290 Nm of torque, it offers ample pulling power. With a weight of 1645 kg, it falls in the mid‑range. Rear‑wheel drive offers dynamic handling and sporty feedback. Acceleration is good (0–100 km/h in 6.9 s). The top speed reaches 247 km/h. A convertible car with a retractable roof, offering open-air driving experiences. Seating for 4 makes it ideal for daily use.
330Ci (225 Hp) (USA) Verdict:
Performance Verdict
Virtually identical performance to the 231 Hp European model, delivering strong, linear power and excellent acceleration for a convertible.
Fuel Economy
Good fuel efficiency for a 3.0L engine, matching the European 231 Hp manual version, offering a balance of power and practicality.
Pros and Cons:
Pros:
- • Timeless and elegant design, especially with the top down.
- • Engaging driving dynamics and balanced chassis.
- • Smooth and powerful inline-six engines across the range.
- • High-quality interior materials and build.
- • Strong aftermarket support and enthusiast community.
Cons:
- • Potential for age-related maintenance issues (cooling system, VANOS, subframe).
- • Rear seat space is limited, typical for a 2+2 convertible.
- • Fuel economy can be high, particularly for larger engines or automatics in city driving.
- • Scuttle shake can be present on rougher roads due to convertible body.
Specifications:
Specifications are compared to those of the previous generation(Sedan (G20 LCI, facelift 2022): July, 2024 - ).
| General: | |
|---|---|
| Brand: | BMW |
| Model: | 3 Series |
| Generation: | Convertible (E46) |
| Modification (Engine): | 330Ci (225 Hp) (USA) |
| Start of production: | June, 2000 |
| End of production: | March, 2003 |
| Powertrain Architecture: | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type: | Cabriolet |
| Seats: | 4 |
| Doors: | 2 |
| Engine: | |
|---|---|
| Power: | 225 Hp @ 5900 rpm. Same horsepower |
| Power per litre: | 75.5 Hp/l [235mm less] |
| Torque: | 290 Nm @ 3500 rpm. |
| Engine Model/Code: | M54B30 More details about the engine M54B30 |
| Engine displacement: | 2979 |
| Number of cylinders: | 6 |
| Engine configuration: | Inline |
| Number of valves per cylinder: | 4 |
| Fuel injection system: | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration: | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain: | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity: | 6.5 l |
| Coolant: | 8.4 l |
| Engine layout: | Front, Longitudinal |
| Cylinder Bore: | 84 mm |
| Piston Stroke: | 89.6 mm |
| Compression ratio: | 10.2:1 |
| Performance: | |
|---|---|
| Fuel Type: | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) - urban: | 13.4 l/100 km |
| Fuel consumption (economy) - extra urban: | 7.3 l/100 km |
| Fuel consumption (economy) - combined: | 9.6 l/100 km |
| Acceleration 0 - 100 km/h: | 6.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 - 62 mph: | 6.9 sec |
| Maximum speed: | 247 km/h |
| Weight-to-power ratio: | 7.3 kg/Hp, 136.8 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio: | 5.7 kg/Nm, 176.3 Nm/tonne |
| Acceleration 0 - 60 mph: | 6.6 sec |
| Space: | |
|---|---|
| Kerb Weight: | 1645 |
| Max. weight: | 2045 |
| Max load: | 400 |
| Trunk (boot) space - maximum: | 300 l |
| Trunk (boot) space - minimum: | 260 l |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%): | 1600 kg |
| Fuel tank capacity: | 63 l |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes: | 730 kg |
| Permitted towbar download: | 75 kg |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (8%): | 1600 kg |
| Size: | |
|---|---|
| Length: | 4488 mm [235mm less] |
| Width: | 1757 mm [70mm less] |
| Height: | 1372 mm [71mm less] |
| Wheelbase: | 2725 mm [126mm less] |
| Front track: | 1471 mm |
| Rear (Back) track: | 1483 mm |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter): | 10.5 m [above average] |
| Powertrain: | |
|---|---|
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the rear wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 5 |
| Transmission type | Manual |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs [Best for performance and cooling.] |
| Rear brakes | Disc [above average] |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 225/45 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 8J x 17 |
| Front suspension | Wishbone |
| Rear suspension | Coil spring |
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