BMW M3. Why the E46 M3 is the best. Full review and test drive video. Amazing!
Vložit
- čas přidán 25. 08. 2024
- The BMW E46 M3, third generation and possible the best of all time.
It took the hearts of real sports car fans by storm when it launched in 2000. With a low weight construction and the high-rev concept of its inline 6-cylinder engine, for many it embodied a return to the virtues of the iconic BMW M3 E30. The following year, a convertible followed, combining a sporty experience and the luxury of open-top driving in an unprecedented way.
From a side profile, the E46 M3‘s chrome-plated gills in the upper part of the front wing are a standout feature. These were originally designed as an air duct for cooling the engine. During testing, however, it turned out that the ducts were not necessary. Nevertheless, they remained - and became such an iconic highlight that their appeal extended beyond just fans of BMW M. Not to be missed are the special side mirrors, which are aerodynamically-shaped to cut through the air. The so-called powerdome, the clearly recognizable curvature of the bonnet, created space for the engine’s powerful intake system. The design of the bonnet left no doubt that there was a real powerhouse hidden under it.
Tim take this lovely convertible model for a test drive and we get to feel what is like to be behind the wheel. Outstanding performance is provided by the typical BMW M Series 6-cylinder engine. The 3.2-litre S54B32 engine built on the legacy of its predecessor. Nevertheless, it was an almost entirely new development. It is regarded as the pioneer of BMW’s now well-established high-rev concept, where its only time for the next gear at just under 8,000 revs...
This emotional and racing-inspired combination helped the M3 to 340 hp peak power (252 kW) and 365 Nm torque - and at the same time to eight wins at the prestigious ‘Engine of the Year’ awards. A cornerstone of this successful concept: for optimum smoothness with maximum performance in various engine speed ranges, the engineers opted for a double-VANOS system.
The striking front apron ensures that water and oil always remain in the right temperature window and that full engine power is available at all times. In addition, it enables the cooling of the car’s powerful brake system. With its generous openings, the apron also gives the M3 E46 an unmistakably bold visual character.
With a subtle 20mm flare to the wheel arches and four stubby exhausts under the rear bumper the E46 retains a relatively understated appearance, while having just enough visual muscle to stand out as something special. And this combination is just as appealing now as it was over two decades ago when it launched.
Because it might not just be the best M3, it may well be one of the best all-round performance cars in living memory. In everything from looks to performance and mechanical intrigue the E46 M3 nails it all perfectly, with the ability to deliver spine-tingling performance at sky high revs or mooch along in relative luxury and comfort as your mood takes you. A Porsche 911 offers a similar blend of refinement and performance, but the M3 pulls all this off with a more exotic engine and the practicality of any 3 Series. It’s less a case of why should you buy one than why shouldn’t you!
Brilliantly review tim I have to say the e46 m3 really is a great car.
Many thanks. Still new to this CZcams thingy, getting better each time. Any chance you could subscribe? I have some great reviews coming this year.
I had the same car with a SMG with a hard top, in the past I have had E36, E46, E93, and two M4 F83 I am now driving an M4 G82.
You do love your M3s. I do prefer the old school M3s. Although the original M2 was a great drive also.
Love it Timothy, hope to see you back at Liverpool pride this year xoxo
I love mine, great lil car.
Thanks Tony. Look after it and you are Likely to see its value increase substantially over the next few years.
Nice vid and good to chat today 👍🏼
Thanks Roger. You videos are excellent.
Your car is gorgeous! Love the color combination. My ‘04 cabriolet is silver gray with black interior.
Thanks John. Not actually my car just doing a review but yes, it was in outstanding condition. Kinda wish it was mine.
Silver is a classic colour combo but this special blue paintwork was lovely. Thanks for watching.
If you are interested in these, there is a fantastic review shot by ShootingCars and they don’t get enough views but the guy really knows his stuff, I would recommend.
Having had one years ago and had much more exotic cars since, I am in the market for another M3 Cab in Black, must be manual though as easier to control the oversteer I feel and a little lighter, which is needed as they are far too heavy. (Easily sorted with a light battery, swap to light bucket seats and remove a bit of sound deadening, add a lighter exhaust and your not far from a well optioned coupe in terms of weight.
@@MrCaterhamr500 I would suggest a coupe instead as it handles far better.
@@TheTimBushChannel they do but the prices have risen too much for my liking, I’m part Scottish and like good value!
@@MrCaterhamr500
Get the coupe. Strip the weight, upgrade the brake and get some decent tyres. Bobs ya uncle
That car looks brand new.
Thanks Mocheen. Yes, it was in outstanding condition, a real credit to the owner. At the time of ordering the estoril blue paintwork was a special order (BMW Individual). Looks great with that grey leather.
I’m on my second one got her older brother too
Nice. Don’t forget to subscribe. New video out soon.
So do I!
@@scottsayer6012 Nice one Scott. Get one for yourself.
Unfortunately you didn’t let it sing to 8k in 2nd, and tickled it in 3rd at not very high revs, what a shame, would’ve been nice to hear it being given full throttle and not early gear changes.
@@MrCaterhamr500 unfortunately it wasn’t my car so didn’t want to rev the bollocks off it. If someone entrusts me with their pride and joy I will respect and treat it with kid gloves. I used to have a Caterham, loved it. An old 1.8 K Series with around 180BHP.
I was waiting for you to take the left hand off the gear handle.
Thanks and what eagle eyes you have. I think it should read “I was waiting for you to take your left hand off the gear stick”
Don’t forget to subscribe and check out the latest show filmed for the 75th anniversary of Porsche.
I'm sorry but those windows up on a convertible just screams WHY!?? It's a convertible.. These are the best convertibles ever made, IMO, though ;)
Thanks Brian. Had to have the windows and roof up for the filming, too much wind noise. Great car to drive, loved it. Any chance you could subscribe?
@@TheTimBushChannel Sorry loL of course! And back..? ;)
@@brianaust8897 👍🏻
Closing the door by pushing the window was painful to witness.
Ooops sorry. What a pain! Ha. I will remember next time, I should know better. Thanks for watching. Don’t forget to subscribe.
Best spec, worst review.
Thanks for the feedback. Yes there are much better reviews out there, but I’m a one man band and personally enjoy the process and editing, great fun.