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BMW 3 Series Coupe (E46, facelift 2003) 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)
Coupe (E46, facelift 2003) Overview:
BMW 3 Series (Coupe (E46, facelift 2003)). With 290 Nm of torque, it offers ample pulling power. It has moderate fuel consumption (~11.8 l/100km). With a weight of 1490 kg, it falls in the mid‑range. Rear‑wheel drive offers dynamic handling and sporty feedback. The top speed reaches 206 km/h. A two-door car with a fixed roof, known for its sporty design and dynamic performance. Seating for 5 makes it ideal for daily use.
330Ci (225 Hp) (USA) Verdict:
Performance Verdict
A powerful and engaging engine, delivering the classic BMW inline-six experience with strong acceleration.
Fuel Economy
Moderate to high fuel consumption, depending on driving style and transmission choice.
Pros and Cons:
Pros:
- • Timeless and elegant coupe styling
- • Exceptional driving dynamics and handling
- • Wide range of smooth and powerful engines (especially inline-sixes)
- • High-quality interior materials and build
- • Strong aftermarket support and enthusiast community
Cons:
- • Common cooling system issues (water pump, expansion tank)
- • Potential for subframe cracks on earlier models (less common on facelift coupes)
- • Rust can be an issue on wheel arches and sills
- • Interior trim can show wear over time
- • Automatic transmissions can feel dated compared to modern units
Specifications:
Specifications are compared to those of the previous generation(Touring (E46, facelift 2001): 2001 - 2005).
| General: | |
|---|---|
| Brand: | BMW |
| Model: | 3 Series |
| Generation: | Coupe (E46, facelift 2003) |
| Modification (Engine): | 330Ci (225 Hp) (USA) |
| Start of production: | 2003 |
| End of production: | 2006 |
| Powertrain Architecture: | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type: | Coupe |
| Seats: | 5 |
| Doors: | 2 |
| Engine: | |
|---|---|
| Power: | 225 Hp @ 5900 rpm. Same horsepower |
| Power per litre: | 75.5 Hp/l [8mm more] |
| Torque: | 290 Nm @ 3500 rpm. |
| Engine Model/Code: | M54B30TU More details about the engine M54B30TU |
| 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: | 84.07 mm |
| Piston Stroke: | 89.66 mm |
| Compression ratio: | 10.2:1 |
| Performance: | |
|---|---|
| Fuel Type: | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) - urban: | 11.8 l/100 km |
| Fuel consumption (economy) - extra urban: | 7.8 l/100 km |
| Maximum speed: | 206 km/h, Electronically limited |
| Weight-to-power ratio: | 6.6 kg/Hp, 151 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio: | 5.1 kg/Nm, 194.6 Nm/tonne |
| Acceleration 0 - 60 mph: | 6.4 sec |
| Space: | |
|---|---|
| Kerb Weight: | 1490 |
| Max. roof load: | 75 kg |
| Trunk (boot) space - minimum: | 410 l |
| Fuel tank capacity: | 63 l |
| Size: | |
|---|---|
| Length: | 4488 mm [8mm more] |
| Width: | 1757 mm [17mm more] |
| Height: | 1369 mm [41mm less] |
| Wheelbase: | 2725 mm [Same wheelbase.] |
| Width including mirrors: | 1947 mm |
| Front track: | 1471 mm |
| Rear (Back) track: | 1483 mm |
| Powertrain: | |
|---|---|
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the rear wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 6 |
| Transmission type | Manual |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs, 325 mm [Best for performance and cooling.] |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs, 320 mm [Best for performance and cooling.] |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | Front wheel tires: 205/50 R17; 225/45 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | Front wheel rims: 7J x 17; 7.5J x 17 |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson |
| Rear suspension | Wishbone, Trailing arm, Coil spring |
Does the BMW 3 Series live up to the hype? Give us your verdict!