BMW 3 Series Sedan (E46) 328i (193 Hp)


Overall Rating

7.6 / 10
Safety 4.0 / 5
Engine 3.0 / 5
Value 4.0 / 5
Performance 4.5 / 5
Comfort 4.0 / 5
People\'s Opinion N/A / 5
Not Rated

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 280 Nm of torque, it offers ample pulling power. With a weight of 1395 kg, it falls in the mid‑range. Rear‑wheel drive offers dynamic handling and sporty feedback. Acceleration is good (0–100 km/h in 7 s). The top speed reaches 240 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.

328i (193 Hp) Verdict:

Rating 5 stars

Performance Verdict

Strong, linear power delivery and excellent refinement, making it a true driver's car, especially with the manual gearbox.

Fuel Economy

Good balance for its performance, offering respectable fuel economy for a 2.8L six-cylinder.

Best Use Case: Enthusiast / Highway Cruising

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(Coupe (E36): 1996 - 1999).

General:
Brand:BMW
Model:3 Series
Generation:Sedan (E46)
Modification (Engine):328i (193 Hp)
Start of production:1998
End of production:2000
Powertrain Architecture:Internal Combustion engine
Body type:Sedan
Seats:5
Doors:4
Engine:
Power:193 Hp @ 5300 rpm. Same horsepower
Power per litre:69.1 Hp/l [38mm more]
Torque:280 Nm @ 3950 rpm.
Engine Model/Code:M52B28TU More details about the engine M52B28TU
Engine displacement:2793
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:84 mm
Compression ratio:10.2:1
Performance:
Fuel Type:Petrol (Gasoline)
Fuel consumption (economy) - urban:12.5 l/100 km
Fuel consumption (economy) - extra urban:7 l/100 km
Acceleration 0 - 100 km/h:7 sec
Acceleration 0 - 62 mph:7 sec
Maximum speed:240 km/h
Weight-to-power ratio:7.2 kg/Hp, 138.4 Hp/tonne
Weight-to-torque ratio:5 kg/Nm, 200.7 Nm/tonne
Acceleration 0 - 60 mph:6.7 sec
Space:
Kerb Weight:1395
Max. weight:1895
Max load:500
Trunk (boot) space - minimum:440 l
Fuel tank capacity:63 l
Size:
Length:4471 mm [38mm more]
Width:1739 mm [29mm more]
Height:1415 mm [49mm more]
Wheelbase:2725 mm [25mm more]
Front track:1471 mm
Rear (Back) track:1478 mm
Powertrain:
Drivetrain ArchitectureThe Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the rear wheels of the vehicle.
Drive wheelRear wheel drive
Number of gears5
Transmission typeManual
Front brakesVentilated discs [Best for performance and cooling.]
Rear brakesDisc
Assisting systemsABS (Anti-lock braking system)
Steering typeSteering rack and pinion
Power steeringHydraulic Steering
Tires size205/55R16
Wheel rims size16
Front suspensionSpring Strut
Rear suspensionCoil spring

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