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BMW 3 Series Sedan (E46) 323i (170 Hp)
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)
Sedan (E46) Overview:
BMW 3 Series (Sedan (E46)). With 245 Nm of torque, it offers ample pulling power. With a weight of 1370 kg, it falls in the mid‑range. Rear‑wheel drive offers dynamic handling and sporty feedback. Acceleration is good (0–100 km/h in 8 s). The top speed reaches 231 km/h. A four-door car with a separate trunk, ideal for families and daily commuting. Seating for 5 makes it ideal for daily use.
323i (170 Hp) Verdict:
Performance Verdict
Smooth and responsive, a very capable engine that offers a great balance for daily driving and occasional spirited runs.
Fuel Economy
Good balance between power and fuel efficiency, making it a practical yet enjoyable choice.
Pros and Cons:
Pros:
- • Engaging driving dynamics and precise handling
- • Timeless and elegant design
- • Strong and smooth inline-six petrol engines
- • High-quality interior materials and build
- • Good balance of sportiness and everyday usability
Cons:
- • Common cooling system component failures (water pump, expansion tank)
- • Potential for rear subframe cracks on early models
- • Window regulator failures are frequent
- • Rust can appear on rear wheel arches and sills
- • Maintenance costs can be higher than average for a car of its age
Specifications:
Specifications are compared to those of the previous generation(Compact (E36): 1996 - 1999).
| General: | |
|---|---|
| Brand: | BMW |
| Model: | 3 Series |
| Generation: | Sedan (E46) |
| Modification (Engine): | 323i (170 Hp) |
| Start of production: | 1998 |
| End of production: | 2001 |
| Powertrain Architecture: | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type: | Sedan |
| Seats: | 5 |
| Doors: | 4 |
| Engine: | |
|---|---|
| Power: | 170 Hp @ 5500 rpm. Same horsepower |
| Power per litre: | 68.2 Hp/l [261mm more] |
| Torque: | 245 Nm @ 3950 rpm. |
| Engine Model/Code: | M52B25TU More details about the engine M52B25TU |
| Engine displacement: | 2494 |
| 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 mm |
| Piston Stroke: | 75 mm mm |
| Compression ratio: | 10.5:1 |
| Performance: | |
|---|---|
| Fuel Type: | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) - urban: | 12.7 l/100 km |
| Fuel consumption (economy) - extra urban: | 6.9 l/100 km |
| Acceleration 0 - 100 km/h: | 8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 - 62 mph: | 8 sec |
| Maximum speed: | 231 km/h |
| Weight-to-power ratio: | 8.1 kg/Hp, 124.1 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio: | 5.6 kg/Nm, 178.8 Nm/tonne |
| Acceleration 0 - 60 mph: | 7.6 sec |
| Space: | |
|---|---|
| Kerb Weight: | 1370 |
| Max. weight: | 1870 |
| Max load: | 500 |
| Trunk (boot) space - minimum: | 440 l |
| Fuel tank capacity: | 63 l |
| Size: | |
|---|---|
| Length: | 4471 mm mm [261mm more] |
| Width: | 1739 mm mm [39mm more] |
| Height: | 1415 mm mm [25mm more] |
| Wheelbase: | 2725 mm mm [25mm more] |
| Front track: | 1481 mm |
| Rear (Back) track: | 1488 mm |
| 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 |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 195/65R15 |
| Wheel rims size | 6.5J x 15 |
| Front suspension | Spring Strut |
| Rear suspension | Coil spring |
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