Bmw m3 e46

Bmw m3 e46

Bmw m3 e46

For enthusiasts of ultimate automotive performance, it’s a magic name: BMW M3. Combining the all-around excellence of the BMW 3 Series with the spectacular performance and handling prowess that could only come from BMW M, the M3 is the formidable BMWsports car that has won - again and again - the accolades of the world’s motoring critics while providing its buyers with real performance and equally real practicality. Less than a year ago, BMW M, creator of all things M, brought forth a new M3 - an all-new generation of this legendary sports car.As has been traditional with the M3, it was the coupe model that appeared first; a convertible variant followed soon thereafter. Predictably, the independent experts took notice. In a June 2001 comparison test of the M3 coupe and a key competitor, Car and Driver declared the M3 the winner. "Incredible engine, sweet steering, silky gearbox, hi-fi driving experience" was how the magazine characterized BMW M’s new ultra-performance coupe.

Bmw m3 e46

Bmw m3 e46

In another comparison test, pitting the M3 against two key rivals, Automobile Magazine (May ’01) gave the BMW the edge and characterized it thus: "The BMW is a more tactile car, more responsive and fractionally quicker. It’s a bigger challenge to drive, and that, ultimately, makes it a more rewarding purchase."In August ’01, Motor Trend compared the M3 coupe with two sports-car competitors and concluded, "It’s ironic that the M3 can do all that it does so extremely well and still be a four-place machine with a useable back seat and a real trunk."

Bmw m3 e46

Bmw m3 e46

And in its July 23, 2001 issue, AutoWeek found that the M3 convertible would outperform BMW’s own 0-60-mph time (5.1 seconds, vs. BMW’s claim of 5.4 sec.). "But numbers can’t measure the grins this car elicits. We’re talking ear to ear. Toss it around a turn or through some cones and you’re in danger of grinning the whole top of your head off. Around here, we call the M3 simply ’The Car.’ Says a lot, no?"

Bmw m3 e46

Bmw m3 e46

With this new engine and the also new 6-speed transmission, the M3 achieves true sports-car performance. Factory data for the European version indicate acceleration from zero to 100 km/h (62 mph) in around 5 sec.; 80-120 km/h (50-75 mph) in 4th gear takes just 5.9 sec., indicating that this engine delivers not just brilliant performance through the gears, but also usable response at everyday driving speeds. Top speed is electronically controlled to 155 mph.

Bmw m3 e46

 Bmw m3 e46

 Bmw m3 e46

 Bmw m3 e46

Bmw m3 e46