BMW 3 Series (E46)From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

BMW 3-Series (E46)

A facelifted BMW E46

Manufacturer BMW

Production 1998–2006

Assembly Leipzig, Germany

Munich, Germany

Regensburg, Germany

Rosslyn, South Africa

Cairo, Egypt

Kaliningrad, Russia

Shenyang, China +

Predecessor BMW E36

Successor BMW E90

BMW 3 Series (E46) - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

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Class Compact executive car

Body style(s) 2-door coupe

2-door convertible

4-door sedan

5-door station wagon

Layout Front engine, rear-wheel drive / All-wheel drive

Platform BMW E46

Engine(s) 1.6/1.9 L I4; 1.9 L I4; 2.0 L I4; 2.0/2.2 L I6; 2.5 L I6; 2.8/3.0 L I6; 3.2 L I6; 2.0 L TD

I4; 2.9 L TD I6

Transmission(s) 5-speed sequential manual

6-speed sequential manual

6-speed automatic

5-speed semi-automatic

5-speed automatic

Wheelbase 107.3 in (2725 mm)

Length Sedan: 176.0 in (4470 mm)

Wagon: 176.3 in (4478 mm)

Convertible & Coupe: 176.7 in (4488 mm)

Width Sedan & Wagon: 68.5 in (1740 mm)

Convertible & Coupe: 69.2 in (1758 mm)

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Height Sedan: 55.7 in (1415 mm)

2000-02 325i Wagon: 55.5 in (1410 mm)

2000-02 325xi Wagon: 56.3 in (1430 mm)

Convertible: 54.0 in (1372 mm)

Coupe: 53.9 in (1369 mm)

xi Sedan: 56.5 in (1435 mm)

Fuel capacity 16.6 US gal (63 L; 14 imp gal)

Related BMW M3

BMW X3

The BMW 3 series is a compact executive car developed and produced by BMW. The

fourth generation 3 series, the E46, was produced from 1998 where it succeeded the

BMW E36 until it was replaced by the BMW E90 in 2006.

The E46 was released in 1998 to worldwide markets (excluding the United States) in the

sedan body style. In 1999, a coupé and touring body style became available to all

markets, and the sedan was released in the United States. A convertible and compact

body style was released in 2000. The E46 experienced enormous success in all markets

and was widely considered the performance benchmark of its class.[1]

The record selling

year for the E46 chassis was 2002, when 561,249 vehicles were sold worldwide.[2]

BMW M GmbH produced a high performance variant of the E46 chassis, designated the

M3. This version had a larger, more powerful engine, sportier suspension, a limited slip

differential, and various aesthetic modifications. The M3 was released in 2001 and was

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available only in the coupé and convertible body style. It was offered with two

transmissions; a standard 6 speed manual, or an optional sequential manual gearbox.

Contents

● 1 Design

❍ 1.1 Exterior design

❍ 1.2 Powertrain and engine design

■ 1.2.1 Petrol engines

■ 1.2.2 Diesel engines

● 2 Models

❍ 2.1 316

❍ 2.2 318

■ 2.2.1 Diesel

❍ 2.3 320

■ 2.3.1 Diesel

❍ 2.4 323

❍ 2.5 328

❍ 2.6 325

❍ 2.7 330

■ 2.7.1 Diesel

● 3 Trim levels

❍ 3.1 North American market

■ 3.1.1 Premium package (ZPP)

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■ 3.1.2 Sports package (ZSP)

■ 3.1.3 Cold weather package (ZCW)

■ 3.1.4 Performance package (ZHP)

❍ 3.2 Canadian market differences

■ 3.2.1 Luxury package

❍ 3.3 European markets

■ 3.3.1 ES

■ 3.3.2 SE

■ 3.3.3 M Sport

■ 3.3.4 M Clubsport

● 4 Model nomenclature

❍ 4.1 "i"

■ 4.1.1 "xi"

❍ 4.2 "Ci"

❍ 4.3 "Cic"

❍ 4.4 "iT"

❍ 4.5 "ti" (Compact)

● 5 Changes by Model Year

❍ 5.1 Mid-year 1998 (MY 99)

❍ 5.2 1999

❍ 5.3 2000

■ 5.3.1 Mid-year 2000 (9/99)

❍ 5.4 2001

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■ 5.4.1 Mid-year 2001 (3/01)

❍ 5.5 2002

■ 5.5.1 Mid-year 2002 (9/02)

❍ 5.6 2003

■ 5.6.1 Mid-year 2003 (3/03)

■ 5.6.2 Mid-year 2003 (6/03)

■ 5.6.3 Mid-year 2003 (9/03)

■ 5.6.4 Mid-year 2003 (10/03)

❍ 5.7 2004

❍ 5.8 2005

■ 5.8.1 Mid-year 2005 (5/05)

● 6 SULEV

● 7 E46 M3

❍ 7.1 E46 M3 CSL

❍ 7.2 North American competition package (ZCP)

● 8 Gallery

● 9 References

● 10 External links

Design

Exterior design

The E46 was developed as a modern replacement for the aging BMW E36 chassis.

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DesignWorksUSA was contracted by BMW to work alongside BMW Group's in house

design team to create the exterior body work.[3]

Based on the E36 body shell, the design

team put an emphasis on improving aerodynamics and increasing the cars aggressive

stance.[3]

Powertrain and engine design

An emphasis was put on reducing unsprung weight and structural rigidity rather than

increasing power output - the highest displacement model at release, the E46 328, had

only 3 horsepower more than the E36 328.[4]

To counter this small power increase, the

body shell of the E46 was claimed by BMW to be 70% more rigid than the E36's,[4]

and

aluminum suspension components were used increasingly in order to decrease unsprung

weight.[4]

In tune with BMW's core values[5]

, the E46 was released with a front engined

rear-wheel drive layout with 50/50 weight distribution.[4][6]

This balance allows for optimal

handling in regards to the drive train layout.

Petrol engines

Model[7] Engine Production

[8] Volume(in cc) Type

[9] Power Torque

0-100 km/

h[10]

(0-62 mph)

316i/Ci M43B16 1998-2005 1596 I4, 8v101 bhp (75 kW; 102 PS)

111 ft·lbf (150 N·m)

12.7 s

316i M43TUB19 1998-2001 1895 I4, 8v104 bhp (78 kW; 105 PS)

122 ft·lbf (165 N·m)

12.4 s

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316i/tiN42B18 2001-2004

1796 I4, 16v113 bhp (84 kW; 115 PS)

129 ft·lbf (175 N·m)

10.9 sN46B18 2004-2005

318i/Ci M43TUB19 1998-2001 1895 I4, 8v116 bhp (87 kW; 118 PS)

129 ft·lbf (175 N·m)

10.4 s

318i/Ci/tiN42B20 2002-2003

1995 I4, 16v

141 bhp (105 kW; 143 PS) 148 ft·lbf

(201 N·m)

9.3 s

N46B20

2004-2005

318Ci 2005-2007148 bhp (110 kW; 150 PS)

9.2 s

320i M52TUB20 1998-2000 1991

I6, 24v

148 bhp (110 kW; 150 PS)

140 ft·lbf (190 N·m)

9.9 s

320i/Ci M54B22 2001-2007 2171168 bhp (125 kW; 170 PS)

155 ft·lbf (210 N·m)

8.2 s

323i/Ci M52TUB25 1998-2000

2494

170 bhp (127 kW; 172 PS)

181 ft·lbf (245 N·m)

8.0 s

325i/xi/Ci/ti (US)

M54B25 2001-2005184 bhp (137 kW; 187 PS)

175 ft·lbf (237 N·m)

7.3 s

325i/Ci SULEV (US)

M56B25 2002-2005184 bhp (137 kW; 187 PS)

175 ft·lbf (237 N·m)

7.3 s

325i/xi/Ci/ti (EUR)

M54TUB25 2001-2007 2494192 bhp (143 kW; 195 PS)

181 ft·lbf (245 N·m)

7.2 s

328i/Ci M52TUB28 1998-2000 2793193 bhp (144 kW; 196 PS)

206 ft·lbf (279 N·m)

6.6 s

330i/xi/Ci

M54B30

2000-2007

2979

225 bhp (168 kW; 228 PS)

214 ft·lbf (290 N·m)

6.3 s

330i/Ci ZHP (US Only)

2003-2006235 bhp (175 kW; 238 PS)

222 ft·lbf (301 N·m)

5.8 s

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M3 (US)

S54B32

2001-2006

3246

333 bhp (248 kW; 338 PS)

262 ft·lbf (355 N·m)

5.0 s

M3 (EUR)

2001-2006343 bhp (256 kW; 348 PS)

269 ft·lbf (365 N·m)

4.8 s

M3 CSL 2003-2004355 bhp (265 kW; 360 PS)

273 ft·lbf (370 N·m)

4.8 s

M3 GTR (Street)

2001

3997 V8, 32v

350 bhp (261 kW; 355 PS)

269 ft·lbf (365 N·m)

M3 GTR (Race)

2001-2005400 bhp (298 kW; 406 PS)

271 ft·lbf (367 N·m)

Diesel engines

Model Engine ProductionVolume(in cc)

Type Power Torque

0-100 km/h

(0-62 mph)

318d/td M47D20 2001-2005 1951I4, 16v

113 bhp (84 kW; 115 PS)

195 ft·lbf (264 N·m)

10.7 s

320d M47D20 1999-2001 1951I4, 16v

134 bhp (100 kW; 136 PS)

207 ft·lbf (281 N·m)

9.9 s

320d/cd/td

M47TUD20 2001-2007 1995I4, 16v

148 bhp (110 kW; 150 PS)

243 ft·lbf (329 N·m)

8.8 s

330d/xd/cd

M57D30 1999-2003 2926I6, 24v

181 bhp (135 kW; 184 PS)

288 ft·lbf (390 N·m)

7.8 s

M57TUD30 2004-2007 2993201 bhp (150 kW; 204 PS)

302 ft·lbf (409 N·m)

7.2 s

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Models

316

The 316 was introduced in 1999 with the lowest output engine available in the E46, the

1.9l BMW M43 producing 105 hp (78 kW) and 165 N·m (37 lbf).[11]

Like all 4 cylinder

models, it was not released into the United States market.[4]

In 2001, the 316 was given a

smaller, yet more powerful 1.8l BMW N42 engine producing 116 hp (87 kW) and 175 N·m

(39 lbf).[12]

318

The 318 was introduced in 1998 with the same engine as the 316, the 1.9l BMW M43.[12]

However, it was designated the M43B19TU (technical update) and had dual balancing

shafts which increased horsepower to 118 hp (88 kW) and torque to 180 N·m (40 lbf).

Along with the 316, the 318 received an updated engine in 2001 - the 2.0l BMW N42. It

produced 143 hp (107 kW) and 200 N·m (45 lbf).[12]

The 318 was also not released into

the United States market.[4]

Diesel

320

Diesel

323

The 323 was one of the first E46 models available for purchase, 1998 for the sedan

(excluding North American markets) and 1999 for the coupe (and sedan in North

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American markets). Although the model was named the 323, it obtained BMW's 2.5l M52

engine designated M52TUB25.[12]

The M52 engine was used in E36 applications,

however this 2.5l version obtained dual VANOS, BMW's mechanically continuous variable

valve timing system. This improved low end torque and fuel economy over the M52B25

used in the E36 323. The 323 had its last model year in 2000[12]

, where it was then retired

to make way for the updated E46 325.

328

The 328 was released alongside the 323 as a higher displacement version, still using the

BMW M52 engine.

325

330

Diesel

Trim levels

North American market

Premium package (ZPP)

Sports package (ZSP)

Cold weather package (ZCW)

Performance package (ZHP)

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2005 BMW 330Ci ZHP

The performance package was an option given to 2003 and upwards model year 330's.[13]

It included various aesthetic changes over the regular 3 series, as well as performance

enhancements. It received the "M-Tech II" bodykit standard, 18 inch staggered style 135

wheels, and black high gloss window trim.[13]

The interior had also been modified to give a

higher performance feel, with half cloth-half alcantara sports seats, an alcantara-wrapped

sports steering wheel, and a carbon fiber styled "cubed" interior trim. The instrument

gauge cluster was also modified with red needles and silver gauge ring accents.[14]

Performance wise, the ZHP obtained BMW's performance range camshafts and a DME

tune to increase power from 225 hp (168 kW) to 235 hp (175 kW)[13]

and the engine

redline from 6,500RPM to 6,800RPM.[14]

Suspension was modified over the standard

sports package with firmer springs and shock absorbers, larger anti-roll bars, steel front

control arm bushings, a lower ride height, and a slightly more negative camber.[14]

Car

and Driver magazine track-tested the car, which returned a 0-60 mph time of 5.6 seconds

and passed through the 1/4 mile in 14.3 seconds.[15]

Specific details on the order package include:

● Performance

❍ An increase of 10 hp (7 kW), 8 lb·ft (11 N·m) of torque

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❍ Lightweight flywheel

❍ More aggressive camshaft

❍ Free-flowing exhaust with 35 mm matte stainless steel dual exhaust pipes

❍ 6-speed short-throw manual transmission

❍ 3.07 final drive gear ratio in rear differential

❍ Tachometer with a 300 rpm-higher redline increase to 6,800 rpm (from 6,500 in

the standard 330i)

❍ Top speed limiter removed. Drag limited to 155 mph (250 km/h) (up from standard

128 mph (206 km/h))

● Suspension

❍ Firmer springs (front +6%, rear +8%)

❍ Firmer shocks (jounce: front +50%, rear +20%), (rebound: front +35%, rear -8%)

❍ Larger diameter anti-roll bars: 23.5 mm front (v. 23.0), 18.5 mm rear (v. 18.0)

❍ Lower ride height by 15 mm (.6 inches) utilizing shorter auxiliary springs

❍ -.5 degrees of camber

❍ Reinforced right & left front lower control arms with all-metal ball joints (more rigid

forward bushings)

● Aesthetics

❍ Interior

■ Sport seats in Alcantara/cloth combo (optionally in leather)

■ Anthracite interior headliner

■ Thicker M 3-spoke multi-function steering wheel in perforated leather or

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Alcantara with fingertip cruise, audio, and accessory phone controls

■ Short & weighted M shift knob

■ Aluminum black/silver cube interior trim

❍ Exterior

■ M-Tech II aerodynamic package

■ M-Tech II front bumper with M-tech fogs and M-tech reflectors

■ M-Tech II rear bumper with diffuser

■ M-Tech II side sills

■ M-Tech lip spoiler

■ Double-spoke (Styling 135M) cast alloy wheels

■ 18 x 8.0 front with 225/40R-18 performance tires

■ 18 x 8.5 rear with 255/35R-18 performance tires

■ High-gloss shadowline trim around the windows

Canadian market differences

Luxury package

European markets

ES

The ES trim level was the base level available for the European E46s. It included various

safety features as standard equipment, such as anti-lock brakes, 6 airbags, dynamic

stability control, and a factory installed alarm which were not common as standard

features when the E46 was released.[16]

Comfort items such as heated and electric

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mirrors were also fitted standard.[16]

The ES trim did not include a leather interior

standard, it was offered as an "at-cost" option.[16]

SE

The SE trim level included the options the ES trim level was given, but added cruise

control, electric adjustable front seats, headlight washers, parking sensors, and a full

leather interior as standard.[16]

It was the mid-range trim level that offered luxury items, but

lacked the performance items the M Sport and M Clubsport trim levels had.

M Sport

The M Sport trim level included the options given on the ES and SE trim levels, but had

additional performance-orientated items added. It came with the "M-tech" I or II bodykits

(depending on when the car was ordered), half leather-half alcantara sports seats, sports

suspension, and 17" style 68 wheels.[16]

M Clubsport

A 330Ci M Clubsport

The M Clubsport trim level is aesthetically similar to the United States Performance

Package.[16]

The main difference is that the M Clubsport trim was not given the BMW

performance camshafts that the ZHP obtained. Instead, it had 20 kilograms (44 lb) of

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sound deadening removed from the car. The M Clubsport trim shares the same

suspension set up as the performance package (ZHP) in America, as well as the "cubed"

interior trim and 18 inch style 135 wheels.[17]

However, changes from the ZHP include

plastic front splitters on the M-Tech II bumper, a M-tech II styled rear spoiler (instead of

the M3 trunk lip), and clubsport door sills.[17]

The M Clubsport also came with two "BMW

Individual" colour options that were carried throughout the car, Estoril Blue and Velvet

Blue.[17]

Unlike the other trim levels, the M Clubsport trim was only available on the 330.[16]

Model nomenclature

"i"

Sedan

"xi"

With the introduction of the xi models in 2001, BMW brought back AWD which hadn't been

an option in the 3-series since 1991 when the E30 325iX was discontinued. BMW

produced the 325xi and 330xi in the US between 2001-2005, but only in Sedan (4-door)

trim.

The AWD models were well received by reviewers for giving customers in severe winter

climates the option of an AWD 3-series. At the same time, the xi was criticized for its

added weight, slower acceleration, decreased gas mileage, softer suspension, and poor

original equipment tires. [18][19]

The transfer case used in all BMW E46 xi models is manufactured by New Venture Gear,

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Inc., which is owned by Magna Powertrain. The NV 124 transfer case used in the E46 xi

models is a full-time four-wheel-drive gear driven transfer case.[20]

The xi models have a permanent front/rear 38:62 torque split which differs from the E46's

successor, the E9X, which incorporated BMW's new xDrive platform. Both the front and

rear differentials in the E46 xi are open differentials which are aided by DSC (Dynamic

Stability Control) to control wheel spin and oversteer/understeer.

"Ci"

Coupe

"Cic"

Convertible (the last "c" is implied)

"iT"

"ti" (Compact)

Changes by Model Year

Mid-year 1998 (MY 99)

● 316, 318, 320, 323, and 328 sedans are released to worldwide markets, designated

"i"(excluding the US).

1999

● 323 and 328 E46 Sedans introduced in the US (The 316 to 320 models were not

released in the US to the general public at any point).

● E46 Coupe is launched into worldwide markets, designated "Ci" (excluding the US).

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● E46 Touring is launched into worldwide markets, designated "iT" (excluding the US).

2000

● E46 Coupe is launched into the US.

● E46 Touring is launched into the US.

● Dynamic Stability Control replaces Automatic Stability Control.

● Auto Recirculation becomes standard.

● The 323 has 15" Alloy wheels standard (replacing hub caps for no-option package

323s).

● The Premium Package has wood trim and moonroof standard, with 16" wheels only

(no more 15" offered).

● The 323 gets the Sport/Premium combo package offered.

● Power seats are a stand-alone option on 323.

Mid-year 2000 (9/99)

● Power seats with driver's seat memory upgraded to include exterior mirror memory.

● Radio has clock function; as a result, an onboard computer function and the time can

be displayed at the same time.

● Child seat tether anchorages added as standard equipment.

● Center console buttons redesigned.

● New key design

● Automatic transmission changes to Steptronic

2001

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● 323i is replaced by the 325i and receives a the new M54B25 engine

● 328i is replaced by the 330i and receives a the new M54B30 engine

● New sport steering wheel with circular airbag cover.

● New dual exhaust from headers to muffler.

● 325i sports package gets 17x8 style 44 wheels.

● 330: 17" rims are standard

● 330: Sports package rims are changed to syle M68 with 17x7.5 up front and 17x8.5 in

the rear.

● 330: Brakes are 1" larger

● 330: Headlight washer jets standard on cold-weather package

● 330: Silver trim around headlights

● 330: "Updated" steering (more power assist)

● Coupes get titanium front spoiler trim.

Mid-year 2001 (3/01)

● 325i and 325iT: New standard equipment: foglights, cruise control, & automatic

climate control

● 325Ci and 325Cic: New standard equipment: automatic Climate Control

● 330: Due to customer feedback, there was a midyear change back to a steering

system with less boost, although more than 323s and 328s had. BMW offered a free

"steering retrofit" to reduce the boost for some time. You now must pay for this retrofit.

This only affected 2001 cars.

● 330i: New standard equipment: power Seats, Harman Kardon stereo, & sport

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suspension

● 330Ci & 330Cic: New standard equipment: Harman Kardon stereo

2002

● NAV systems now have a widescreen 16x9 display.

● E46 Sedans and wagons receive a facelift: New headlight and taillight designs, side

directional marker moved and re-shaped, new wider grille, new hood, new front

bumpers for 325i and 330i without sport package.

● 330: 18" wheel option offered

● 320d: Receives new engine 148 bhp (110 kW; 150 PS)

Mid-year 2002 (9/02)

● Sirius satellite radio now pre-wired on non-navigation cars

2003

● NAV system becomes DVD based (Mark IV NAV system). In addition, the navigation

system will now be available with in-dash CD-player or cassette player.

● The sound system head unit now has a new auxiliary input (aux input kit required)

● Sedans receive third rear headrest and 3-point seatbelt.

● 325: Rain sensor and automatic headlight control will now be part of the Premium

Package.

● 325: Front armrest will be standard in the sedan and sport wagon.

● 325: Moonroof will be standard in the sport wagon.

● 325: SULEV 325i, 325Ci, and 325iT are introduced with the M56 motor to meet new

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emission requirements. The SULEV M56 motor was offered optionally and only

comes with the Steptronic transmission.

● 330: Tire Pressure Monitor replaces the Flat Tire monitor on vehicles with run-flat

tires. The alarm display and button in the middle console remain unchanged.

● 330xi with Sport Package will come with 17" all-season run-flat tires with styling 98

wheels (same as the current run-flat tire option).

Mid-year 2003 (3/03)

● Performance package introduced on the 330i sedan. It's only offered with a manual

transmission and NOT offered with the premium package.

● All E46s are now pre-wired for the BMW Bluetooth kit

● All 330 manual transmissions now 6-speed instead of 5-speed

Mid-year 2003 (6/03)

● M3 CSL production (1400 units)

Mid-year 2003 (9/03)

● All 330i/330xi Sedans, and 330Ci Coupes must be ordered with option 403 -

moonroof.

● All 330Ci Convertibles must be ordered with ZPP - premium package.

● Myrtle wood is no longer available as a stand-alone option. It will only be available

when the Premium Package is ordered.

● A new interior trim will be made available on all 3 Series. SA 426 or Aluminum

"Brushed Columns" trim will be available as a no cost option when the Premium

Package is ordered. If the Premium Package is ordered and SA 426 is not specified,

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the car will be equipped with Myrtle Wood trim (as before)

● Cars equipped with Navigation are now pre-wired for Sirius

Mid-year 2003 (10/03)

● SMG or Sequential Manual Gearbox available in conjunction with the sport package

(not available in conjunction with the Performance Package or all-wheel drive

models).

2004

● Performance package now available on coupes and convertibles, as well as with the

automatic transmission and the premium package (on all 330s).

● The climate control head unit has a new control button layout (temp, fan and

recirculate control buttons) for simpler operation and ease of use.

● The rain sensor and automatic headlight control standard for all Sedans and Sports

Wagons. These features were previously only available with the Premium Package

(ZPP).

● Automatic STEPTRONIC transmission will be available in conjunction with the

Performance Package.

● New Sport Package wheel for 325i Sedan and Sports Wagon. Styling 119 replaces

Styling 96.

● New base wheel for the 330i/330xi Sedan and 325xi Sedan/Sports Wagon when

equipped with the Sport Package. New wheel replaces Styling 73.

● Titanium exterior trim on the front grille and headlights is no longer different for 330i

and 330xi Sedans. (The headlights are black and the front spoiler is a combination of

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black and body color.)

● Coupes and convertibles receive a face lift with a new front grille (larger "BMW

kidneys"), revised lower bumper design and front/rear light redesign including LED tail

lights, repositioned side turn signal lights and clear front corners on sport package

cars.

● The Xenon headlight package was upgraded to the Adaptive Xenon package for

coupes/convertibles only.

● 325i and 325iT: Styling 119 (17 x 8) with performance tires replaces Styling 96 when

the sport package (ZSP) is ordered.

● 330i/330xi get a new base wheels. 325xiT and 330xiT get new Sport Package wheels.

● Styling 137 (17 x 7) with all-season tires replaces Styling 73, also known as the Radial

spoke.

2005

● Lumbar seat support added to the premium package on the 325.

● CD shuttle became MP3 compatible

Mid-year 2005 (5/05)

● Performance package 330s get a perforated leather steering wheel instead of

Alcantara

SULEV

BMW introduced a super ultra low emission vehicle (SULEV) into the select regions of the

United States to meet stricter emission standards. California, New York, and

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Massachusetts received the SULEV E46's in 2003, and Vermont in 2004.[21]

They

received a variant of the M54 engine, the BMW M56.[21]

The M56 meets SULEV

standards, as well as partial zero emission vehicle (PZEV) and zero evaporative

emissions requirements.[21]

The M56 is claimed to have identical power as its M54

counterpart.[21]

E46 M3

E46 M3 CSL

A silver BMW M3 CSL.

The BMW M3 CSL (coupe sports lightweight)[22]

was a limited edition version of the M3,

with only 1,400 cars being produced for its 2004 model year run.[23]

The CSL was never

released into the North American market,[24]

and was only available in two colours - Silver

Grey Metallic and Black Sapphire Metallic. [25]

As its name suggests, an emphasis was put on reducing weight. The M3 CSL has a kerb

weight of 1,385 kg (3,050 lb), 110 kg (240 lb) lighter than the regular M3.[26][27][28]

The

CSL features many weight saving technologies taken from Formula 1 racing applications.

[29] A large proportion of the M3's sound insulation has been removed, as have the power

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windows, electric seats, and navigation systems.[24]

. Air conditioning and stereo systems

could be retrofitted free of cost, but were not available standard.[27]

The CSL's unique

body pieces are all crafted from carbon fiber reinforced polymer.[26]

Glass-reinforced

plastics are used throughout structural points in the car.[27]

The rear glass window was

replaced with lightweight plastic.[27]

Although the CSL loses a considerable amount of

kerb weight from its original version, the focus was put on strategically reducing or moving

the weight in the car rather than the raw amount of weight that could be lost.[30]

This is to

retain the ideal 50:50 weight distribution characteristics the E46 has.[26]

For example, the

roof is constructed from carbon fiber reinforced plastic.[26]

While this only reduces the kerb

weight of the car by 7 kg (15 lb), it lowers the center of gravity of the car and decreases

body flex.[30][25]

A black M3 E46 CSL.

In order to improve the handling ability of the car, the entire suspension system was

further refined.[26]

Specially developed racing springs and dampers are given to the CSL,

and a tightened steering ratio (14.5:1 vs 15.4:1 on the regular M3) improves

responsiveness.[29]

The braking system is also modified, with larger front and rear floating

rotors and calipers from the E39 M5.[24][25]

The CSL is given a retuned dymanic stability

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control system with a "M track mode" setting that allows the car to be pushed to its

absolute limits before being activated.[29]

The 3.2l engine used in the M3, the BMW S54, has been modified to increased output by

17 hp (13 kW) and 5 N·m (1 lbf) over the European M3.[25][29]

This is achieved through a

high flow carbon fiber air intake, modified valve and camshaft timing, and a retuned DME.

[29][25] However, the engine is further modified in order to reduce weight - it features a

lightweight exhaust manifold and thinner exhaust piping.[29]

Additionally, the intake and

exhaust manifolds are slightly straightened to improve engine responsiveness.[24]

The CSL also has various aesthetic modifications over the standard M3. It received an

aerodynamic lightweight body kit which included carbon fiber front splitters that improved

downforce at high speeds by 50%,[26]

as well as a carbon fiber rear diffuser. The front

bumper has a distinct hole that is used to draw cool air into the newly designed air intake.

[26] The boot lid is redesigned to incorporate a raised lip, unlike the standard M3 where

one is simply added on to a flat boot.[26]

The CSL was sold with distinct 19 inch lightweight

forged BBS alloy rims that came with Michelin Pilot Sport Cup semi-slick racing tires.[25]

[31] The interior of the CSL is redesigned with a sporty-weight saving theme. The CSL

obtains fiberglass front racing bucket seats,[26]

and fiberglass backed rear seats.[26]

The

center console, door panels and trim, and headliner are all formed from carbon fiber[26][25]

,

and the steering wheel is redesigned with cruise control, stereo, and phone controls

removed to include just a single button that activates the M track mode.[25]

Unlike the standard M3, which was offered with a standard 6-speed GETRAG

transmission, or optionally a SMG drivelogic transmission (also known as the SMG II), the

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CSL was offered only with the SMG II transmission.[29]

This is the standard 6-speed

GETRAG transmission with an electrohydraulically actuated clutch pedal, similar to an

Formula 1 style transmission.[25]

However, the CSL received a more advanced drivelogic

unit than the standard M3 that was capable of making shifts in 0.08 of a second.[29][25]

North American competition package (ZCP)

As the M3 CSL was not available to the North American markets, BMW released an

optional "competition package" (option code ZCP) to fill the market void. It upgraded the

normal M3 by way of 19 inch forged lightweight CSL style wheels, detuned CSL

suspension components, a tighter steering ratio, and the CSLs brakes.[32]

It also included

a detuned version of the CSLs dynamic stability control.[32]

Gallery

Coupe Front Coupe Rear Coupe Side (Facelift) Coupe ZHP (Euro)

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Sedan Front Sedan Front

(Facelift)

Sedan Rear

(Facelift)

Sedan ZHP (US)

Cabriolet Cabriolet (Facelift) Touring Front

(Facelift)

Touring Rear

(Facelift)

Compact Front Compact Rear Front M3 CSL Rear M3 CSL

References

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1. ^ MAYERSOHN, NORMAN (2009-06-24). "2006 BMW 3 Series: The Benchmark Settles

Into Comfortable Middle Age". pp. 2. http://www.nytimes.com/2005/07/24/

automobiles/24AUTO.html. Retrieved on 2009-07-08.

2. ^ "Successful 2003 Financial Year for the BMW Group". The Auto Channel. http://www.

theautochannel.com/news/2004/01/27/178201.html. Retrieved on 2006-07-24.

3. ^ a b "DesignworksUSA". BMW Group. http://www.designworksusa.com/design/carsbikes/

BMW3Series/index.html. Retrieved on 2009-07-08.

4. ^ a b c d e f "BMW 3 Series". Edmunds. 2003-08-01. 1. http://www.edmunds.com/insideline/

do/Features/articleId=66153. Retrieved on 2009-07-09.

5. ^ "BMW Innovations Lounge". BMW. 1. http://www.bmw.co.za/innovations/weight/overview.

asp. Retrieved on 2009-07-08.

6. ^ "BMW E46 3 series buyers guide specs features". reveuro. 1. http://www.reveuro.com/

buyers_guide/bmw/3series/e46.html. Retrieved on 2009-07-08.

7. ^ An "i" stands for fuel injected, present on all petrol models. A "d" stands for diesel

powered, "Ti" is the 3-door hatchback (compact). "Ci" stands for Coupe, while "Cic" stands

for convertible. An x means all-wheel drive.

8. ^ Model year production.

9. ^ The I indicates an Inline/Straight engine, followed by the number of cylinders and the total

amount of valves.

10. ^ Figures are for saloons/coupes with manual transmission. Acceleration may be slightly

faster for compacts (ca. -0.1 seconds) and slower for tourings (ca. +0.2 seconds),

convertibles (ca. +0,4-1 seconds), automatics ca. (+0.2-0.5 seconds) and all-wheel drives

(ca. +0.2-0.5 seconds).

11. ^ "BMW World - 4-Cylinder Engines". BMW World. http://www.usautoparts.net/bmw/

engines/4cyl.htm. Retrieved on 2009-07-09.

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BMW 3 Series (E46) - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

12. ^ a b c d e "BMW Information". BMWinfo. http://www.bmwinfo.com/23480.html. Retrieved on

2009-07-09.

13. ^ a b c "BMW 330i ZHP". Brazeau Racing. http://www.brazeauracing.com/330i/index.html.

Retrieved on 2009-07-09.

14. ^ a b c "BMW 330i with Performance Package". Car and Driver. http://www.caranddriver.

com/reviews/hot_lists/car_shopping/entry_luxury/

bmw_330i_with_performance_package_road_test/%28page%29/1. Retrieved on 2009-07-

09.

15. ^ "BMW 330i with Performance Package - Road Test". Car & Driver. http://www.

caranddriver.com/layout/set/print/reviews/hot_lists/car_shopping/entry_luxury/

bmw_330ci_and_330xi_first_drive_review. Retrieved on 2008-01-31.

16. ^ a b c d e f g "BMW 3 series coupe car review". parkers.co.uk. http://www.parkers.co.uk/

cars/reviews/bmw/3-series-coupe-1999.aspx?page=7. Retrieved on 2009-07-09.

17. ^ a b c "Clubsport review". EVO magazine. http://www.evo.co.uk/carreviews/

evocarreviews/28052/bmw_3series.html. Retrieved on 2009-07-09.

18. ^ "BMW 330Ci and 330xi - First Drive Review". Car & Driver. http://www.caranddriver.com/

layout/set/print/reviews/hot_lists/car_shopping/entry_luxury/

bmw_330ci_and_330xi_first_drive_review. Retrieved on 2008-01-31.

19. ^ "BMW 330xi vs. Subaru Impreza WRX, Audi S4". Car & Driver. http://www.caranddriver.

com/layout/set/print/reviews/comparison_test/sedans/

bmw_330xi_vs_subaru_impreza_wrx_audi_s4_comparison_test. Retrieved on 2008-01-31.

20. ^ "The xi resource. » Transfer Case". XI FTW. http://www.xiftw.com/?page_id=16.

Retrieved on 2009-05-02.

21. ^ a b c d "M56sulev". BMW. http://www.ge39.com/files/M56sulev.pdf. Retrieved on 2009-07-

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10.

22. ^ "BMW Cancels Lightweight M3 CSL". Automobile Mag. http://blogs.automobilemag.

com/6291366/car-news/bmw-cancels-lightweight-m3-csl/index.html. Retrieved on 2009-07-

10.

23. ^ "BMW M3 CSL". Autoblog. http://www.autoblog.com/tag/bmw+m3+csl/. Retrieved on

2009-07-10.

24. ^ a b c d "BMW M3 CSL Performance". Automobile Magazine. http://www.automobilemag.

com/reviews/coupes/0210_bmw_m3_csl/performance.html. Retrieved on 2009-07-10.

25. ^ a b c d e f g h i j "BMW M3 Parts CSL". US auto parts. http://www.usautoparts.net/bmw/

models/m3_csl.htm. Retrieved on 2009-07-10.

26. ^ a b c d e f g h i j k "BMW M3 CSL". Cartorque. http://www.cartorque.co.za/0001.htm.

Retrieved on 2009-07-10.

27. ^ a b c d "BMW M3 CSL (E46)". diseno-art. http://www.diseno-art.com/encyclopedia/

vehicles/road/cars/bmw_m3_csl.html. Retrieved on 2009-07-10.

28. ^ "Car reviews - BMW M3 CSL". http://www.carenthusiast.com/reviews.html?

mode=article&id=855. Retrieved on 2009-07-10.

29. ^ a b c d e f g h "[Glass-reinforced plastic The New M3 CSL]". Car pages. Glass-reinforced

plastic. Retrieved on 2009-07-10.

30. ^ a b "BMW M3 CSL". Automobile magazine. http://www.automobilemag.com/reviews/

coupes/0210_bmw_m3_csl/index.html. Retrieved on 2009-07-10.

31. ^ "BMW M3 CSL - Auto Shows". Car and driver. http://www.caranddriver.com/buying_guide/

bmw/m3/bmw_m3_csl_auto_shows__1+type-news_by_make+mode-collection+id-259.

html. Retrieved on 2009-07-10.

32. ^ a b "BMW M3 Zine - BMW M3". M3Zine. http://www.m3zine.com/index.php/E46-M3.html.

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Retrieved on 2009-07-10.

External links

● BMW's Super factory

● BMW E46 Wiki at Bimmerfest

● BMW 3-series at the Open Directory Project

● BMW Video: Making of an BMW E46

Categories: BMW platforms | Vehicles introduced in 1998 | Euro NCAP large family cars | 1990s automobiles | 2000s automobilesHidden categories: Articles actively undergoing construction

● This page was last modified on 20 July 2009 at 23:28.

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