Launched at the 2000 Geneva Motor Show, the E46 M3 was offered in coupe or convertible forms and featured more purposeful styling compared to previous iterations, with wide arches and a purposeful stance improving upon the E46 3 Series‘ already handsome styling. Under the bonnet was the S54 straight-six, a 3.2-litre unit making 343bhp and driving the rear wheels via a six-speed manual or optional SMG (sequential manual gearbox) transmission.
That motor could rev to 8000rpm and with the M3 weighing less than 1500kg, performance was more than a little brisk: the 0-60mph benchmark was cracked in around five seconds, with top speed limited to 155mph.
But while the muscular engine dominated proceedings, enjoying the E46 M3 wasn’t just about outright pace: handling and response was scalpel-sharp, yet with its controlled ride and luxurious interior this was a car that could happily be used every day.
BMW made the E46 M3 even more special in 2004 with the introduction of the limited-production M3 CSL model. Priced at £58,000 in the UK, the new car brought more power and revised suspension, plus carbon panels and thinner glass to cut around 110kg from the kerb weight. The M3 CS of 2005 was similarly special thanks to stiffer suspension, quicker steering and larger brakes.
The E46 M3’s successor would swap to V8 power, but for epic motorsport character the E46 M3 and its incredible engine take quite some beating.
