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BMW E46 M3 Review: Will This Iconic Car Become a Future Classic?
Introduction
The BMW E46 M3, produced from 2000 to 2006, is widely regarded as one of the best M3 generations. Its combination of performance, handling, and timeless design has made it a favorite among enthusiasts.
Specifications
- Engine: 3.2-litre inline-6 (S54B32)
- Power: 338 PS @ 7,900 rpm
- Torque: 355 Nm @ 4,900 rpm
- 0-62 mph (0-100 km/h): 4.8 seconds
- Top speed: 155 mph (250 km/h, electronically limited)
- Transmission: 6-speed manual or 6-speed SMG-II
- Weight: 1,549 kg (coupe), 1,715 kg (convertible)
- Wheelbase: 2,731 mm
- Length: 4,491 mm
- Width: 1,781 mm
- Height: 1,372 mm
- Original UK MSRP (2001): £38,465 (coupe), £42,370 (convertible)
- 2010 average used price: £10,000 - £17,000
- 2015 average used price: £13,000 - £20,000
- 2020 average used price: £18,000 - £30,000
- 2023 average used price: £22,000 - £45,000 (low mileage, well-maintained examples can fetch even more)
- Compression ratio: 11.5:1
- Bore x stroke: 87 mm x 91 mm
- Valvetrain: DOHC, 4 valves per cylinder
- Fuel system: Multi-point fuel injection
- Redline: 8,000 rpm
- Differential: M Variable Differential Lock
- Suspension: MacPherson strut (front), multi-link (rear)
- Brakes: 325 mm ventilated discs (front), 328 mm ventilated discs (rear)
- Wheels: 18-inch (standard), 19-inch (optional)
- Tyres: 225/45ZR18 front, 255/40ZR18 rear
- CSL (Coupe Sport Leichtbau): Limited production (1,383 units), 365 PS, 110 kg lighter
- GTR: Racing version, 500 PS
- 30th Anniversary Edition: Limited to 30 units for the UK market
The E46 M3 is already considered a modern classic, and its status is likely to grow for several reasons:
- Last naturally aspirated inline-6 M3
- Perfect balance of analogue driving feel and modern performance
- Timeless design that has aged exceptionally well
- Strong enthusiast following and aftermarket support
- Limited production numbers compared to newer generations
- Increasing prices indicate growing collector interest
The BMW E46 M3 represents a sweet spot in the M3 lineage, combining raw performance with driver engagement in a way that later turbocharged models struggle to match. Its appreciating values and strong enthusiast following suggest that it's well on its way to becoming a highly sought-after classic. For those looking to invest in a future classic that's also a joy to drive, the E46 M3 is an excellent choice.
