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BMW M3 Convertible (E46) 3.2i 24V (343 Hp)
Overall Rating
BMW M3:
The BMW M3 is a high-performance version of the BMW 3 Series, developed by BMW's in-house motorsport division, BMW M GmbH. M3 models have been produced for every generation of 3 Series since the E30 M3 was introduced in 1986.
The initial model was available in a coupé body style, with a convertible body style made available soon after. M3 saloons were offered initially during the E36 and E90 generations. Since 2014, the coupé and convertible models have been rebranded as the 4 Series range, making the high-performance variant the M4. Variants of the 3 Series since then have seen the M3 produced as a saloon, until 2020, when the M3 was produced as an estate for the first time, alongside the saloon variant....(Read more on Wikipedia)
Convertible (E46) Overview:
BMW M3 (Convertible (E46)). With 365 Nm of torque, it offers ample pulling power. With a weight of 1655 kg, it falls in the mid‑range. Rear‑wheel drive offers dynamic handling and sporty feedback. Acceleration is excellent (0–100 km/h in 5.5 s). The top speed reaches 250 km/h. A convertible car with a retractable roof, offering open-air driving experiences. Seating for 4 makes it ideal for daily use.
3.2i 24V (343 Hp) Verdict:
Performance Verdict
The S54B32 engine is a masterpiece, delivering exhilarating performance with its high-revving nature and linear power delivery, making it incredibly engaging on spirited drives.
Fuel Economy
As expected for a high-performance naturally aspirated engine of its era, fuel economy is not a strong suit, with combined figures around 12.1 l/100 km (19.4 MPG US).
Pros and Cons:
Pros:
- • Legendary S54 engine with incredible sound and power delivery
- • Timeless design and classic M styling
- • Engaging driving dynamics and precise steering
- • Open-top driving experience
- • Strong aftermarket support and enthusiast community
Cons:
- • High running costs, especially fuel and specific maintenance items (VANOS, rod bearings)
- • Subframe cracking issues (though often addressed by now)
- • Convertible adds weight and reduces chassis rigidity compared to Coupe
- • Older technology interior
- • Rear seat space is limited
Specifications:
Specifications are compared to those of the previous generation(Coupe (E46): 2000 - 2003).
| General: | |
|---|---|
| Brand: | BMW |
| Model: | M3 |
| Generation: | Convertible (E46) |
| Modification (Engine): | 3.2i 24V (343 Hp) |
| Start of production: | 2001 |
| End of production: | 2006 |
| Powertrain Architecture: | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type: | Cabriolet |
| Seats: | 4 |
| Doors: | 2 |
| Engine: | |
|---|---|
| Power: | 343 Hp @ 7900 rpm. |
| Power per litre: | 105.7 Hp/l |
| Torque: | 365 Nm @ 4900 rpm. |
| Engine Model/Code: | S54B32 [Same engine] More details about the engine S54B32 |
| Engine displacement: | 3246 |
| 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: | 5.5 l |
| Coolant: | 10 l |
| Engine layout: | Front, Longitudinal |
| Cylinder Bore: | 87 mm mm |
| Piston Stroke: | 91 mm mm |
| Compression ratio: | 11.5:1 |
| Performance: | |
|---|---|
| Fuel Type: | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) - urban: | 17.9 l/100 km |
| Fuel consumption (economy) - extra urban: | 8.8 l/100 km |
| Fuel consumption (economy) - combined: | 12.1 l/100 km |
| Acceleration 0 - 100 km/h: | 5.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 - 62 mph: | 5.5 sec |
| Maximum speed: | 250 km/h |
| Weight-to-power ratio: | 4.8 kg/Hp, 207.3 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio: | 4.5 kg/Nm, 220.5 Nm/tonne |
| Acceleration 0 - 60 mph: | 5.2 sec |
| Space: | |
|---|---|
| Kerb Weight: | 1655 |
| Max. weight: | 2100 |
| Max load: | 445 |
| Trunk (boot) space - minimum: | 300 l |
| Fuel tank capacity: | 63 l |
| Size: | |
|---|---|
| Length: | 4492 mm mm [Same length.] |
| Width: | 1780 mm mm [Same width.] |
| Height: | 1363 mm mm [9mm less] |
| Wheelbase: | 2731 mm mm [Same wheelbase.] |
| Front track: | 1508 mm |
| Rear (Back) track: | 1525 mm |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter): | 11.0 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 | 6 |
| 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 R18; 255/40 R18 |
| Wheel rims size | 8J x 18; 9J x 18 |
| Front suspension | Wishbone |
| Rear suspension | Coil spring |
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