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BMW M3 E46 Convertible

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The BMW M3 E46 convertible is an extremely capable sports car, with first-class chassis dynamics and engine performance. If the BMW M3 E46 coupe is a laser scalpel for the carving of corner apexes, the convertible is merely a finely-honed conventional surgical scalpel. It's still sharp enough, and then some.

2001-2006 BMW M3 E46 Convertible photo gallery

BMW M3 E46 Convertible - front bumper and hood

2001-2006 BMW M3 E46 Convertible
Type	M3 E46
Engine
Code	S54 B32
Displacement	3246cc
Cylinders	6
Fuel type	Gasoline
Power	252kW \| 343HP
Torque@RPM	365Nm@4900rpm
Performance
Top Speed	250km/h \| 155mph
Acceleration 0-100km/h 0-60mph	5.5s
Fuel Consumption (l/100km \| mpg)
City	17.9 \| 13.1
Highway	8.8 \| 26.7
Combined	12.1 \| 19.4

Dimensions
Length	4492mm
Width	1780mm
Height	1364mm

Source for technical specifications: BMWheaven

Versions and Production Numbers

BMW produced three official versions of the E46 M3 Convertible: The M3 convertible was offered in both ECE-spec (left-hand drive and right-hand drive) and North American-spec forms:

ECE M3 convertible (LHD): 4,822 examples produced from 02/01 through 08/06
ECE M3 convertible (RHD): 7,234 examples produced from 04/01 through 08/06
NA M3 convertible (LHD): 17,577 examples produced from 03/01 through 08/06

The M3 E46 convertible does have a slightly broader focus than the coupe. It's perfectly happy to have the top dropped (quickly, at the touch of a button, no manual latching or unlatching necessary, thank you) for a spirited but not excessively fast drive on a sunny day. With 343 horsepower to the rear wheels from its unique high-revving 3.2-liter inline six-cylinder engine by way of a six-speed transmission, and a precisely-tuned sports suspension that is also quite comfortable on less than perfectly-paved roads, plus room for four people and a bit of luggage - or two and plenty - it's a grand car for touring less-explored and more interesting roads.

While an BMW M3 E46 convertible can be enjoyed on an uncrowded back road, or even club track day, it's also completely at home in everyday traffic. Its broad powerband, quick reflexes, and excellent brakes add safety as much as performance. The optional SMG sequential automatically-controlled gearbox, gives the ability for automatic shifting in traffic, and quick manual control when desired, with no clutch pedal. The SMG can improve both sport and luxury aspects of the car.

Comfort

Firm leather covers both the power-adjustable front seats and the rear bench. The front sports seats are firmly and provide excellent comfort and support, and any driver can find the perfect driving position. The rear seat is spacious enough for two adults under 5-10 or so, and there is even a reasonable amount of trunk space. Top up, the convertible has the usual large rear quarter panel blind spots, but judicious use of the mirrors helps considerably. Top down, visibility is excellent, and there is just the right amount of wind in the hair.

Safety

Additionally to the coupe, the convertible has the Rollover Protection System, two rollover bars behind the front seats that deploy automatically if sensors detect an impending rollover.

Source: The Auto Channel

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