One of my good friends from high school got a Dinan stage 2 e46 m3 6spd as his first car. I fondly remember all of the late night drives, canyon runs, and stoplight pulls. For being 16, it was the first fast car I had ever been in. Sadly the car got sold on BaT after a couple years of enjoyment and the next owner totaled it a few months later. I will fondly remember all of the good times I had in that car!
@@23laxstar reminds me of my time with my e46 m3 that I got in my early 20s. First fast car I’ve ever been in let alone driven myself lol. Perfect amount of power and great handling for even a beginner to figure things out on. Had it from age 20 till 25. Hope it’s still on the road somewhere in Illinois where I sold it.
My dad had a 330i auto sedan of the same model year I was born. Apparently when my mom went into labor with me in the middle of the night, he did a 50 minute drive in 18 minutes from our house to the hospital. That was my favorite car ever and I remember how it would just glue you to the seats when we hit the highway on ramps. Of course now it doesn’t seem all that fast, but back then it was just the coolest car ever.
I’m 21 years old and just bought a E46 M3. One of my dream cars. So much hard work to afford it but worth it! Every time I drive it, it feels like the first time.
Hi bro, may i ask how much did you bought your M3 for? USD? I'm in the market for 1. I'm based in Malaysia so just want to get the idea of how much it costs in other country. Tq
My Dad has owned an E46 M3 (6-speed manual) for twenty years now. He bought the car brand new in '02 with just seven miles on it, and I believe it just reached 98K. He still drives it and enjoys it almost every day. It doesn't look like a supercar, but it still keeps up with, and in many cases, outperforms supercars which are decades newer. He's taken good care of it, and it's been completely reliable. Those E46s are absolutely amazing. Even though I haven't driven or ridden in it in a while, I can still smell the leather and hear the engine turning over as if I'm sitting right behind the wheel.
I’m on the bmw Reddit all the time and dudes post their g80s and everyone in the comments tell them how nice looking they are. It’s like a bubble of g80 owners lying to each other telling themselves the car is attractive. It’s not.
@@eyeyamjstn628 I said "one of the last", not "the last". My all time favorite bimmers are the E39 models, especially the Touring (because wagons are cool). But I've got nothing but love for the E38, E36, E9X and the E46s (and I high-key dig the E65 LCI over any of the G8Xs)
I just started daily-ing my E46 M3 after 6 years of on-and-off reliability, so this video was a real treat. Everything you described about this car is spot on; it take corners effortlessly, climbs insanely fast at high RPM, steers like butter, sounds like a growling chainsaw, and can drift like it's on rocket-powered ice skates.
Your not wrong!! I can’t get enough of the e46!!! I’m building my e46 M3 at the moment, here’s where I’ve got to so far if your interested👌 th-cam.com/video/BpOasVoBSvU/w-d-xo.html
The vice principal of my high school had an E46 330ci which I always walked by on my way in. It was a way nicer car than any other school staff drove. Just so nicely proportioned with that super clean look. When he replaced it with an E92, I was so disappointed. Yeah, it was probably faster, but it really lost something. The E46 series are still, to me, the best looking sedans ever made.
I got my 2005 E46 M3 back in February 2021 and drove it from San Francisco to Los Angeles. The joy of taking that car home from a distant town was immeasurable. I gotta admit tho the ownership of the car isn’t all candies and rainbows. The first month of ownership was notably painful, as it set me back a bit more than $5,000 on getting it right. The day after arriving from San Fran, I had the rod bearings replaced (some bearings were about to go to Belize, so that was a good call on my part). Two weeks after, I was scheduled for the VANOS job. At that time, I was getting a weird chirping noise from the hood, and I was hella scared to drive it (good thing I still had my dad’s Mini that time to take me to work). The time for the VANOS job came, and they found out that my water pump and fan clutch were shot, so they suggested having my entire cooling system redone, though I had the urgent stuff such as the water pump, thermostat, some pulleys, and fan clutch addressed by them while simultaneously working on the VANOS. That job was so expensive that at one point my bank account was hella empty. The radiator, hoses, and expansion tank were addressed a month after, the time when I got my finances together. I went for a Mishimoto radiator, so my car could handle the California heat. Ever since then, my car has been fairly solid. I got it when it was at 150.5k miles, and as of now it has 167.5k miles. It’s a solid daily driver and a canyon animal.
I've been waiting for an E46 video from you for a good while now.Great! This car for me is up there in my "utmost and utter respect" list which not many cars get on...It's just an incredible piece of engineering.
They are suck awesome cars!!! I’m building my e46 M3 at the moment, here’s where I’ve got to so far if your interested👌 th-cam.com/video/BpOasVoBSvU/w-d-xo.html
e46 m3 and e92 m3 are the two cars to make you fall in love with BMW. i think one of the reasons it's so good is that it's rewarding at any skill level.
You don't even need an M3 e90, if the regular non m3 E90 doesn't have enough power to you then you must be red light drag racing everywhere, at that point even the m3 is going to get gapped by just about any modern performance car...
@@mastwinch to be fair if you're wanting to go fast yeah the m3's aren't that good. If you want to track the car, the chassis will be the same and you can build up a 330 or 335 or something like that
Ive never driven one, but my mechanic has one sitting in the back yard, started it gave it a few revs, the feeling just that alone gave me is insane, really want one but its a bit out of budget lol, great video as always Tedward keep doing what youre doing.
It’s such a great car!!! Get a deal done with your mechanic!!! I’m building my e46 M3 at the moment, here’s where I’ve got to so far if your interested👌 th-cam.com/video/BpOasVoBSvU/w-d-xo.html
Bought my first one at 18 and over a decade later own a Dinan S3-R 6 speed.. The e46 M ride never ends. Buy at your own discretion, one of the most addictive substances on the planet.
Thank you making this video. I love your videos and watch every one I can. I've owned my E46 M3 for 12 years after desperately wanting one for 10. Watching you drive (effectively) my car was enlightening. I don't disagree with a thing you said, except for what you said several times about the S54's torque. The engine makes ~80% of its torque already by ~2k rpm, which I think is astonishing for a relatively small, NA engine. I continue to be astonished at how well that little car gets out of its own way almost immediately. I say this as an owner of an E60 M5 (also a manual). The S85 V10 in the M5, despite its much-bigger 5 liters and 10 cylinders, has laughably little torque...until it begins to come alive around 4k rpm and beyond. The E46's S54, IMO, is a torque MONSTER when you consider that it's a relatively-small, high-strung, high-revving straight-six. I talk about all of this plenty on my channel here: th-cam.com/channels/yipgoL8ejKhxHGHhmRQaqQ.html
My favorite M3 generation is the E36, i don't care is not the best, i just love the design. The E46 also has a very special place, is definitely an improvement, but for me is E36. Awesome video as always!
The e36s are mega!!! A few friends of mine have had them and when they are clean they are 👌👌👌 I’m building my e46 M3 at the moment, here’s where I’ve got to so far if your interested👌 th-cam.com/video/BpOasVoBSvU/w-d-xo.html
Agree. I owned a 1997 and it was a terrific car to drive. I remember taking a curve at 60 (in a 30 mile zone) and recalling that it was too easy to do. My 2013 boxster doesn’t take that turn quite as easily!!
I completely agree. I daily a 99 M3 coupe, and chose it over the e46 mostly on style. The e36 is a very sharp design, the e46 is kind of a bar of soap. Additionally, the e36 is just a more raw drive, not as fast but more exciting as a daily.
Ahhhh, such a cool car. So refreshing to see how responsive the throttle response is and the lack of rev-hang compared to most new manuals. Also, absolute facts on the low rumble at idle with these BMW I6s. I love listening to the cold idle in my E90 for this exact reason. Much better than the racket of the idle in newer turbo 4 cylinders.
You can’t beat the straight 6 sound!! I’m building my e46 M3 at the moment, here’s where I’ve got to so far if your interested👌 th-cam.com/video/BpOasVoBSvU/w-d-xo.html
You can see how much work they put in to the design when you start taking it apart!!! I’m building my e46 M3 at the moment, here’s where I’ve got to so far if your interested👌 th-cam.com/video/BpOasVoBSvU/w-d-xo.html
Love it! Also rod bearing failure is EXTREMELY rare. People think it's common because all you see on forums is people with the rod-bearing failure lol. It's really not that prevalent.
The sub frame issue, however, is very real, but the Vince bar is a pretty good solution. The other thing that kind of let's it down is the iron block that weighs down the front an extra 100lbs. God, a VAC billet block sedan would be soooooooo good.
I had a silver ext, fox red int. '06 M3 (6spd) convertible a few years ago. It's the one vehicle that I TRULY miss aside from my s2k. Riding around hearing the 6 screaming with the roof down was a thing of joy.
My friend literally just bought one, in this same color, too. I have to say I am even happier for him after watching this. What a sound! And what a great-looking little car as well.
They are going up in price too!! I’m building my e46 M3 at the moment, here’s where I’ve got to so far if your interested👌 th-cam.com/video/BpOasVoBSvU/w-d-xo.html
I remember getting in one of these for the first time. Seating position, steering wheel position... Everything fit like a glove. Just like the MK4 Supra.
These cats are so well designed!!! I’m building my e46 M3 at the moment, here’s where I’ve got to so far if your interested👌 th-cam.com/video/BpOasVoBSvU/w-d-xo.html
I have a base model 325i with an auto and I absolutely love the sound and feel of that car so it would be such a treat to drive the epitome of the E46 platform.
I’ve had a few e46s so far and they all drive 👌👌 I’m building my e46 M3 at the moment, here’s where I’ve got to so far if your interested👌 th-cam.com/video/BpOasVoBSvU/w-d-xo.html
If you get a test drive you not look back!! I’m building my e46 M3 at the moment, here’s where I’ve got to so far if your interested👌 th-cam.com/video/BpOasVoBSvU/w-d-xo.html
my granddad had a 2004 e46 325ci convertible before he got dementia. that car is now mine. i'm absolutely in love with it. driving it never gets old. i imagine the m equivalent must feel like heaven.
As a kid getting into cars I was mainly into Japanese imports. But whenever I saw that "///M3" on the trunk lid I knew it was something special. I got a chance to move an e46 m3 with the smg transmission. It was all stock but it sounded like it already had headers on it, I remember the way the engine felt. That smooth rumble and vibration. It sounded and felt like a race car with a stock exhaust lol
They are mad to drive!!! I’m building my e46 M3 at the moment, here’s where I’ve got to so far if your interested👌 th-cam.com/video/BpOasVoBSvU/w-d-xo.html
Another amazing therapy drive. Always love the videos. Makes me more mindful of my own cars and appreciating their pros and cons. Typing this in my 92 legend coupe, that I bought because of your reviews! If you ever want to experience a clean 260,000 mile 5 speed legend, you're more than welcome to take it for a spin!
I accidentally bought an 04 E46 M3 when my wife spent way to long at the dealership trying to buy a car. After an hour and a half of boredom, I looked at the salesman and said “give me the keys to that car. I want to drive it while you guys Dick around.” We bought a car that night. The M3… with SMG… She hated it. I loved it. I kept it, and she got no car that day. 15 years later, I’ve rebuilt everything (stock), relocated SMG hydro pump to drug well, and handled all of the Big 3 +1, except for the RACP reinforcement-which is next. This car is a keeper… and some day it (the SMG) will be worth more than the manual 6-speed; because right now, eberybody is dissing SMG/converting to manual. BIG MISTAKE. The SMG is incredible. Don’t believe the conflicting false narrative. Modify it (SMG), maintain it, and relocate it for ease of servicing, and you’ll NEVER want this awesome car in its manual version.
My mom had a325 when u were in highschool and I let her sell it because it was an automatic. 2nd buggest regrets in my life, today it's the tattoos on my arm and I almost cried watching this video hearing that motor. One day, ima have it one day
This design really was an end to an era for BMW. The 3 series that followed after were still great looking but there was something so CLOSE to perfect it was something of a fever dream. The E46 was amazing in so many ways and will forever be a classic. The subtle widebody was something else that's for sure!
My favorite car of all time for everyday and track. Had mine forever and don't plan to sell it any time soon 156k miles. Had rod bearings done while back they found no issues with the ones they took out. But better safe than sorry. Might be the most underrated car, not sure why it's not skyrocketing in prices yet.
Mines been sitting for 4 months I really need to drive it! I had an 2002 and have a 2005 now, I had my rod bearings done at 160k miles by Rogue Engineering and they were all severely worn, so all years need replacements
Great video! I had a 2005 BMW 352i. With only "184 hp", it was and absolute blast to drive. I fell in love with BMW in high school. My friend had a hand me down 1987 E30 covertible. Silver with red leather seats. We would drive and drive and drive.......From that point I told myself I had to get one. In 2009 I bought my 2005 3 series with 80k miles on it. Put another 80k on it before I sold it. Feel the itch to get another one!
I just bought a 2012 BMW 128i M Sport pkg and I think it's the closest thing I can get to the E46 M3 without selling a kidney. Would love to see you review a 128i ;)
I have a 320d daily and I’m building my e46 M3 at the moment, here’s where I’ve got to so far if your interested👌 th-cam.com/video/BpOasVoBSvU/w-d-xo.html
2 friends of mine had one of these for a few years. One had one that used to be turbo'd..... yeah that blew a hole in the block after a year and a half. The other was stock and is still running, just with another owner. Great cars.
Oooft that is a bad day!!! I’m building my e46 M3 at the moment, here’s where I’ve got to so far if your interested👌 probably won’t end up turboing it tho haha th-cam.com/video/BpOasVoBSvU/w-d-xo.html
UK viewer here. A long way off but I do miss my E46 320D sometimes, was such a good size compared to cars today, and that steering... still haven't found anything that replaces it. Too bad it was only ES spec and starting chucking up huge bills at 150k miles else I'd still have it! Would love to drive the M3
Definitely for me, I’ve decided it is better to skip exhaust and go to intake mods for the nice induction sound under load. Truly a dream car, great video Tedward!
Always a pleasure to see you drive , with respect and also the narration is really good with in depth knowledge of the machine and the history. keep doing the good work
My favorite car, I grew up on this car, idc about people don’t buy bmw since I use to own a 3 series e46. Drive is worth now I have the money to macitence it
My son has a 2002 M3 Individual, 6-speed manual, manual seats w/cloth inserts, and no sunroof. He's the second owner. He too busy to drive it much anymore. I've been on him to sell it while the prices are high.
I had a coupe and vert e46 m3. Both 6 speeds. I now own an e92 m3 dct. I miss the e46 and I will own another one in the future. E46 is a classic. Probably my fav design
Totally agreed, this is peak M3 for me even though it isn't the best at everything. That ENGINE, it is peak inline 6, the rasp is fantastic, the powerband is just right. It is a true gem. 😘👌
I test drove one today, and i really think its my next car coming from a GT86. Absolutely adored these cars for years and the induction noise is incredible. Does feel oddly similar to my 86 tho just more premium
@@4our6ixkwvmz E46 definitely is more exciting and raw. E92 is more calming to drive fast which can be really nice. The E92 makes a pretty incredible daily and has a more premium feeling interior. Both are awesome cars, wish I could have both. The ZF 6 speed in the E92 is way better than Getrag in the E46 in my opinion. The transmission sold me on the E92 when I first drove it.
Every time I see one of these all I can think about is how awesome Need For Speed: Most Wanted (2005) was. I'm pretty sure that game was also a reason people wanted to rip around in one of these gorgeous monsters.
As I continue the endless fight of chassis slop in my Benz c207 chassis & know that a 6 speed will never happen as long as I stick to Benz, I REALLY needed this today. I'll keep getting my wrenching skills up to par to be ready for BMW ownership as soon as my bank account is also ready. Thanks!
My roommate back in college 2004-2005 had a at the time brand new M3 with the smg trans. That car was crazy fun I got to drive it a few times. I’m currently in the market for a 04-06 m3.
I have been looking for what first car to get when I get the money and for the past three days have watched a ton of content on the BMW E46 - out of a sudden, you post this. The universe is trying to tell me something 👀
You need to hop into a Camaro ZL1 with the 6 speed I feel like you'll enjoy that car massively. Big power and torque with great driver feel and shifter feel.
I fell in love with the E39 and owned a 540i and M5 (when new). I enjoyed the V8s more than the raspy E46 M3, although I have driven a few. On track too. I believe there are 5 or 6 still owned by local CCA member friends. Most are well maintained and kept immaculate. Regarding modern BMWs, test drive the latest X3M. I just did quite well at an autocross in my 2020 X3M. Amazing high revving performance & great handling, while bowing to the luxury SUV crowd. And the latest LCI has improved the ride and low-end performance. PS: My friend does E39 head unit swaps with a more modern one (E70 X5 era I think). E46 swap should be the same.
I also prefer the e39 m5 or even a 540i 6 speed over an e46 m3. I tried hard to find an e39 m5 when I finally started making real money in my 20s. Couldn’t make it happen but I did end up with a 68k mile e46 m3 6 speed. Was actually pretty reliable compared to my f80 m3 that I have currently. Wish the market didn’t blow up on both the e39 and e46 generation. I’d definitely own another. Also, I absolutely agree with you on the X3M. One day I’ll grab one of those now that I’ve started a family. That X3M is the best blend of performance and family hauler.
I’m interested in that head unit swap, do you details/ website of your friend?? I’m building my e46 M3 at the moment, here’s where I’ve got to so far if your interested👌 th-cam.com/video/BpOasVoBSvU/w-d-xo.html
I sold my 911 turbo for a 2022 toyota tacoma because dad life is coming soon, but this is my dream second car! I had an s54 in my z4m... That engine screams!
These cars were quirky in terms of the reliability/dependability but with the right care there's no reason you couldn't drive one for 200k+ miles. Great size, styling and the S54 does sound legendary.
I had a E46 and at the time I absolutely loved it I thought it was the best-looking car on the road I had offset 18in BBS wheels on coilovers it was beautiful...... But now I have an E 92 I think the e92 platform looks a lot better but I like them both but the lines on the e92 are just hard to beat they killed it with that design
Don't have an BMW, let alone an E46 M3 (would love one) but having a working ancient navigation system is great, feels like you are back in the early 2000s with your 20 year old navigation system guiding you in your car. (experience from my dad's b5 RS4, which you as an American have surprisingly reviewed which is amazing 👍)
7:52 actually, one of the first ever sport sedans is the Alfa Romeo Giulia TI Super introduced in 1963. It was one of the first ever 4 door cars to be produced with lighter weight and more power to double as a mass manufactured family sedan and a touring car. I always thought the M3 was genesis and the last word for a car you can fit 4 people in and scare them to death when you step on it. I only know that because I've been a rabid M3 fan my whole life and always wanted one, but then, the new Alfa Romeo Giulia QV came out, and I ened up getting that instead. It wasn't until becoming a huge Alfista that I learned about how much Alfa has given the world, and the first Giulia is no exception to what they could achieve. Of course, Alfa never got the recognition or sales they deserved, and have always just been a niche thing amonst a small cross section of car fans. But, I do agree that BMV perfected the super saloon. Its crazy tha the new Giulia Quadrifoglio has been called "the M3 killer", when many years after the first Giulia was gone, forgotten, and basically killed, BMW took that idea and brought it back to life.
What are your first e46 M3 memories? This one is actually for sale and you can reach out to Justin If you want it! Justin@bondgroupusa.com
In need for speed MW
One of my good friends from high school got a Dinan stage 2 e46 m3 6spd as his first car. I fondly remember all of the late night drives, canyon runs, and stoplight pulls. For being 16, it was the first fast car I had ever been in. Sadly the car got sold on BaT after a couple years of enjoyment and the next owner totaled it a few months later. I will fondly remember all of the good times I had in that car!
@@23laxstar reminds me of my time with my e46 m3 that I got in my early 20s. First fast car I’ve ever been in let alone driven myself lol. Perfect amount of power and great handling for even a beginner to figure things out on. Had it from age 20 till 25. Hope it’s still on the road somewhere in Illinois where I sold it.
@@F80mthree Such amazing cars and the symphony of the s54 still resonates in my mind!
My dad had a 330i auto sedan of the same model year I was born. Apparently when my mom went into labor with me in the middle of the night, he did a 50 minute drive in 18 minutes from our house to the hospital. That was my favorite car ever and I remember how it would just glue you to the seats when we hit the highway on ramps. Of course now it doesn’t seem all that fast, but back then it was just the coolest car ever.
I’m 21 years old and just bought a E46 M3. One of my dream cars. So much hard work to afford it but worth it! Every time I drive it, it feels like the first time.
life goal for real
love that for you
Congratulations ! 💪⭐️
Hi bro, may i ask how much did you bought your M3 for? USD? I'm in the market for 1. I'm based in Malaysia so just want to get the idea of how much it costs in other country. Tq
Good for you buddy. That's awesome. Reminds me or when I was 17 and I saved all my money to buy a 98 328is
Such a timeless design, the perfect amount of power, and sound. Thank you Tedward for driving my dream car 💯
ah shit here we go again
I agree!!! I’m building my e46 M3 at the moment, here’s where I’ve got to so far 👌 th-cam.com/video/BpOasVoBSvU/w-d-xo.html
@@Unknown-vv1td haha
My dream car too, it makes me happy that it's still affordable
All you had to do was follow the damn train
My Dad has owned an E46 M3 (6-speed manual) for twenty years now. He bought the car brand new in '02 with just seven miles on it, and I believe it just reached 98K. He still drives it and enjoys it almost every day. It doesn't look like a supercar, but it still keeps up with, and in many cases, outperforms supercars which are decades newer. He's taken good care of it, and it's been completely reliable. Those E46s are absolutely amazing. Even though I haven't driven or ridden in it in a while, I can still smell the leather and hear the engine turning over as if I'm sitting right behind the wheel.
Hopefully he leaves that to you and you get to cherish it forever.
Most importantly, it has a soul, it gives you emotions, feelings that modern cars don’t
Ah yes, one of the last BMWs before BMW designers went cuckoo for Cocoa Puffs
I disagree, the e92 and the f82 are gorgeous
Imo the e92 is more beautiful than E46 but both are beauties
I’m on the bmw Reddit all the time and dudes post their g80s and everyone in the comments tell them how nice looking they are. It’s like a bubble of g80 owners lying to each other telling themselves the car is attractive. It’s not.
@@eyeyamjstn628 I said "one of the last", not "the last". My all time favorite bimmers are the E39 models, especially the Touring (because wagons are cool). But I've got nothing but love for the E38, E36, E9X and the E46s (and I high-key dig the E65 LCI over any of the G8Xs)
@@jaioncebollero1168 if a car is truly attractive, you wouldn't need to convince yourself it is
I just started daily-ing my E46 M3 after 6 years of on-and-off reliability, so this video was a real treat. Everything you described about this car is spot on; it take corners effortlessly, climbs insanely fast at high RPM, steers like butter, sounds like a growling chainsaw, and can drift like it's on rocket-powered ice skates.
I really wish my E46 that I had was manual, I can't imagine what the driving experience would be like!!
Nothing like a good old N/A Inline 6. Despite being 30 years old, the 2 litre in mine is still smooth as silk.
Your not wrong!! I can’t get enough of the e46!!! I’m building my e46 M3 at the moment, here’s where I’ve got to so far if your interested👌 th-cam.com/video/BpOasVoBSvU/w-d-xo.html
I have 320ci and i love it either. It is soooo smooth.
I'm a bmw e46 330ci user, really 23 years old, same age but still very beautiful and very fast
The vice principal of my high school had an E46 330ci which I always walked by on my way in. It was a way nicer car than any other school staff drove. Just so nicely proportioned with that super clean look. When he replaced it with an E92, I was so disappointed. Yeah, it was probably faster, but it really lost something. The E46 series are still, to me, the best looking sedans ever made.
Yeah, it's a horrible shame they didn't make an M3 sedan.
@@apodski You can make an m3 sedan ;)
This generation might have been peak BMW design. Although the V8 and V10 may have been their most glorious engines
@@--LZ--- I'm well aware, but wrecked e46 m3 parts donor prices keep climbing. Quickly becoming a collector car.
I got my 2005 E46 M3 back in February 2021 and drove it from San Francisco to Los Angeles. The joy of taking that car home from a distant town was immeasurable.
I gotta admit tho the ownership of the car isn’t all candies and rainbows. The first month of ownership was notably painful, as it set me back a bit more than $5,000 on getting it right. The day after arriving from San Fran, I had the rod bearings replaced (some bearings were about to go to Belize, so that was a good call on my part). Two weeks after, I was scheduled for the VANOS job. At that time, I was getting a weird chirping noise from the hood, and I was hella scared to drive it (good thing I still had my dad’s Mini that time to take me to work). The time for the VANOS job came, and they found out that my water pump and fan clutch were shot, so they suggested having my entire cooling system redone, though I had the urgent stuff such as the water pump, thermostat, some pulleys, and fan clutch addressed by them while simultaneously working on the VANOS. That job was so expensive that at one point my bank account was hella empty. The radiator, hoses, and expansion tank were addressed a month after, the time when I got my finances together. I went for a Mishimoto radiator, so my car could handle the California heat.
Ever since then, my car has been fairly solid. I got it when it was at 150.5k miles, and as of now it has 167.5k miles. It’s a solid daily driver and a canyon animal.
I’d take this over any brand new economy car any day fr no cap
Big facts
I've been waiting for an E46 video from you for a good while now.Great!
This car for me is up there in my "utmost and utter respect" list which not many cars get on...It's just an incredible piece of engineering.
They are suck awesome cars!!! I’m building my e46 M3 at the moment, here’s where I’ve got to so far if your interested👌 th-cam.com/video/BpOasVoBSvU/w-d-xo.html
e46 m3 and e92 m3 are the two cars to make you fall in love with BMW. i think one of the reasons it's so good is that it's rewarding at any skill level.
I’m building my e46 M3 at the moment, here’s where I’ve got to so far if your interested👌 th-cam.com/video/BpOasVoBSvU/w-d-xo.html
For me the E85/86 M Coupe and Roadster.
i don't have m3 money but even my 2003 320ci cabrio has made me fall in love with BMW.
You don't even need an M3 e90, if the regular non m3 E90 doesn't have enough power to you then you must be red light drag racing everywhere, at that point even the m3 is going to get gapped by just about any modern performance car...
@@mastwinch to be fair if you're wanting to go fast yeah the m3's aren't that good. If you want to track the car, the chassis will be the same and you can build up a 330 or 335 or something like that
Ive never driven one, but my mechanic has one sitting in the back yard, started it gave it a few revs, the feeling just that alone gave me is insane, really want one but its a bit out of budget lol, great video as always Tedward keep doing what youre doing.
It’s such a great car!!! Get a deal done with your mechanic!!! I’m building my e46 M3 at the moment, here’s where I’ve got to so far if your interested👌 th-cam.com/video/BpOasVoBSvU/w-d-xo.html
The best looking M3 without a doubt! The one to have!
Wanted one of these for 14 years. It will be 3 years with mine in December. Laguna seca blue with cinnamon interior - best car ever!
hey sell me your m3 bro
Bought my first one at 18 and over a decade later own a Dinan S3-R 6 speed..
The e46 M ride never ends. Buy at your own discretion, one of the most addictive substances on the planet.
This is one of those “perfect cars” that will go down in history. Such a treat
Drove one of these when they were new. What an engine! Didn’t realize at the time how the things that make it great would no longer be on M3s.
g80 m3 is a super car styling is just different
Thank you making this video. I love your videos and watch every one I can. I've owned my E46 M3 for 12 years after desperately wanting one for 10. Watching you drive (effectively) my car was enlightening. I don't disagree with a thing you said, except for what you said several times about the S54's torque. The engine makes ~80% of its torque already by ~2k rpm, which I think is astonishing for a relatively small, NA engine. I continue to be astonished at how well that little car gets out of its own way almost immediately. I say this as an owner of an E60 M5 (also a manual). The S85 V10 in the M5, despite its much-bigger 5 liters and 10 cylinders, has laughably little torque...until it begins to come alive around 4k rpm and beyond. The E46's S54, IMO, is a torque MONSTER when you consider that it's a relatively-small, high-strung, high-revving straight-six. I talk about all of this plenty on my channel here: th-cam.com/channels/yipgoL8ejKhxHGHhmRQaqQ.html
My favorite M3 generation is the E36, i don't care is not the best, i just love the design. The E46 also has a very special place, is definitely an improvement, but for me is E36.
Awesome video as always!
The e36s are mega!!! A few friends of mine have had them and when they are clean they are 👌👌👌 I’m building my e46 M3 at the moment, here’s where I’ve got to so far if your interested👌 th-cam.com/video/BpOasVoBSvU/w-d-xo.html
Agree. I owned a 1997 and it was a terrific car to drive. I remember taking a curve at 60 (in a 30 mile zone) and recalling that it was too easy to do. My 2013 boxster doesn’t take that turn quite as easily!!
@@stms4411 haha and that with stock suspension, I’ve put some aftermarket coil overs on mine and it sticks to the road now 🙌🙌🙌
I completely agree. I daily a 99 M3 coupe, and chose it over the e46 mostly on style. The e36 is a very sharp design, the e46 is kind of a bar of soap. Additionally, the e36 is just a more raw drive, not as fast but more exciting as a daily.
Ahhhh, such a cool car. So refreshing to see how responsive the throttle response is and the lack of rev-hang compared to most new manuals. Also, absolute facts on the low rumble at idle with these BMW I6s. I love listening to the cold idle in my E90 for this exact reason. Much better than the racket of the idle in newer turbo 4 cylinders.
You can’t beat the straight 6 sound!! I’m building my e46 M3 at the moment, here’s where I’ve got to so far if your interested👌 th-cam.com/video/BpOasVoBSvU/w-d-xo.html
Agree on the rev hang. The manuals of the early 2000s just seem so much easier to nail gear changes
A wonderful piece of German engineering! Great video Tedward!
You can see how much work they put in to the design when you start taking it apart!!! I’m building my e46 M3 at the moment, here’s where I’ve got to so far if your interested👌 th-cam.com/video/BpOasVoBSvU/w-d-xo.html
Love it! Also rod bearing failure is EXTREMELY rare. People think it's common because all you see on forums is people with the rod-bearing failure lol. It's really not that prevalent.
Not letting the oil warm up completely before revving hard is thought to be the reason they fail.
Completely agree!! I’m building my e46 M3 at the moment, here’s where I’ve got to so far if your interested👌 th-cam.com/video/BpOasVoBSvU/w-d-xo.html
The sub frame issue, however, is very real, but the Vince bar is a pretty good solution. The other thing that kind of let's it down is the iron block that weighs down the front an extra 100lbs. God, a VAC billet block sedan would be soooooooo good.
picked one of these up 2 weeks ago. absolutely stellar car, and got it for a pretty good price. near mint condition too
how much u pay? miles? color combo? clean title?
Finally! The M3 with the MOST torque! 😍
I had a silver ext, fox red int. '06 M3 (6spd) convertible a few years ago. It's the one vehicle that I TRULY miss aside from my s2k. Riding around hearing the 6 screaming with the roof down was a thing of joy.
My friend literally just bought one, in this same color, too. I have to say I am even happier for him after watching this. What a sound! And what a great-looking little car as well.
They are going up in price too!! I’m building my e46 M3 at the moment, here’s where I’ve got to so far if your interested👌 th-cam.com/video/BpOasVoBSvU/w-d-xo.html
"little"
12:16 I can't be the only one that witnessed the hot mess that Camry made of the merge
I remember getting in one of these for the first time. Seating position, steering wheel position... Everything fit like a glove. Just like the MK4 Supra.
These cats are so well designed!!! I’m building my e46 M3 at the moment, here’s where I’ve got to so far if your interested👌 th-cam.com/video/BpOasVoBSvU/w-d-xo.html
Learned to drive stick on an e46 M3. It will forever be my favorite car
Those geese were not impressed... but we always are! Keep up the great content!
Hahaha I’m building my e46 M3 at the moment, here’s where I’ve got to so far if your interested👌 th-cam.com/video/BpOasVoBSvU/w-d-xo.html
I have a base model 325i with an auto and I absolutely love the sound and feel of that car so it would be such a treat to drive the epitome of the E46 platform.
I’ve had a few e46s so far and they all drive 👌👌 I’m building my e46 M3 at the moment, here’s where I’ve got to so far if your interested👌 th-cam.com/video/BpOasVoBSvU/w-d-xo.html
Great review! I have never had the opportunity to drive in an E46 M3 yet, so it was cool to see this.
If you get a test drive you not look back!! I’m building my e46 M3 at the moment, here’s where I’ve got to so far if your interested👌 th-cam.com/video/BpOasVoBSvU/w-d-xo.html
my granddad had a 2004 e46 325ci convertible before he got dementia. that car is now mine. i'm absolutely in love with it. driving it never gets old. i imagine the m equivalent must feel like heaven.
As a kid getting into cars I was mainly into Japanese imports. But whenever I saw that "///M3" on the trunk lid I knew it was something special.
I got a chance to move an e46 m3 with the smg transmission. It was all stock but it sounded like it already had headers on it, I remember the way the engine felt. That smooth rumble and vibration. It sounded and felt like a race car with a stock exhaust lol
They are mad to drive!!! I’m building my e46 M3 at the moment, here’s where I’ve got to so far if your interested👌 th-cam.com/video/BpOasVoBSvU/w-d-xo.html
Another amazing therapy drive. Always love the videos. Makes me more mindful of my own cars and appreciating their pros and cons. Typing this in my 92 legend coupe, that I bought because of your reviews! If you ever want to experience a clean 260,000 mile 5 speed legend, you're more than welcome to take it for a spin!
I’m building my e46 M3 at the moment, here’s where I’ve got to so far if your interested👌 th-cam.com/video/BpOasVoBSvU/w-d-xo.html
Thanks for reviewing older cars like this 🤙👏👏👏
Thanks for appreciating the cars!
I’m building my e46 M3 at the moment, here’s where I’ve got to so far if your interested👌 th-cam.com/video/BpOasVoBSvU/w-d-xo.html
I accidentally bought an 04 E46 M3 when my wife spent way to long at the dealership trying to buy a car. After an hour and a half of boredom, I looked at the salesman and said “give me the keys to that car. I want to drive it while you guys Dick around.”
We bought a car that night. The M3… with SMG…
She hated it.
I loved it. I kept it, and she got no car that day.
15 years later, I’ve rebuilt everything (stock), relocated SMG hydro pump to drug well, and handled all of the Big 3 +1, except for the RACP reinforcement-which is next.
This car is a keeper… and some day it (the SMG) will be worth more than the manual 6-speed; because right now, eberybody is dissing SMG/converting to manual. BIG MISTAKE. The SMG is incredible. Don’t believe the conflicting false narrative.
Modify it (SMG), maintain it, and relocate it for ease of servicing, and you’ll NEVER want this awesome car in its manual version.
the best m3 bmw ever made, absolutely sensational car imo.
I’m building my e46 M3 at the moment, here’s where I’ve got to so far if your interested👌 th-cam.com/video/BpOasVoBSvU/w-d-xo.html
My mom had a325 when u were in highschool and I let her sell it because it was an automatic. 2nd buggest regrets in my life, today it's the tattoos on my arm and I almost cried watching this video hearing that motor.
One day, ima have it one day
This design really was an end to an era for BMW. The 3 series that followed after were still great looking but there was something so CLOSE to perfect it was something of a fever dream. The E46 was amazing in so many ways and will forever be a classic. The subtle widebody was something else that's for sure!
My favorite car of all time for everyday and track. Had mine forever and don't plan to sell it any time soon 156k miles. Had rod bearings done while back they found no issues with the ones they took out. But better safe than sorry. Might be the most underrated car, not sure why it's not skyrocketing in prices yet.
Folding mirrors was an optional extra, some E46 M3's do have it but not many.
Mines been sitting for 4 months I really need to drive it!
I had an 2002 and have a 2005 now, I had my rod bearings done at 160k miles by Rogue Engineering and they were all severely worn, so all years need replacements
My first car was a '00 323i. I dreamed of a M3. Got the chance to drive one, and that is the best vehicle I have EVER driven.
Great video! I had a 2005 BMW 352i. With only "184 hp", it was and absolute blast to drive. I fell in love with BMW in high school. My friend had a hand me down 1987 E30 covertible. Silver with red leather seats. We would drive and drive and drive.......From that point I told myself I had to get one. In 2009 I bought my 2005 3 series with 80k miles on it. Put another 80k on it before I sold it. Feel the itch to get another one!
I just bought a 2012 BMW 128i M Sport pkg and I think it's the closest thing I can get to the E46 M3 without selling a kidney. Would love to see you review a 128i ;)
I just bought a 325xi E46 and while it's not fast, the E46 chassis is really good.
I’ve got an E85 Z4 and love it and have been looking at E46 325i’s for a daily. Are there issues with the awd system?
I have a 320d daily and I’m building my e46 M3 at the moment, here’s where I’ve got to so far if your interested👌 th-cam.com/video/BpOasVoBSvU/w-d-xo.html
2 friends of mine had one of these for a few years. One had one that used to be turbo'd..... yeah that blew a hole in the block after a year and a half. The other was stock and is still running, just with another owner. Great cars.
Oooft that is a bad day!!! I’m building my e46 M3 at the moment, here’s where I’ve got to so far if your interested👌 probably won’t end up turboing it tho haha th-cam.com/video/BpOasVoBSvU/w-d-xo.html
@abcdefghijk wise words my friend!! 👍
new sub ,love your videos bro, keep it up, informative and entertaining
Thanks!
UK viewer here. A long way off but I do miss my E46 320D sometimes, was such a good size compared to cars today, and that steering... still haven't found anything that replaces it. Too bad it was only ES spec and starting chucking up huge bills at 150k miles else I'd still have it! Would love to drive the M3
Definitely for me, I’ve decided it is better to skip exhaust and go to intake mods for the nice induction sound under load. Truly a dream car, great video Tedward!
This is the best looking BMW ever made and think thats one of reasons why its still popular
100% agree!!! I’m building my e46 M3 at the moment, here’s where I’ve got to so far if your interested👌 th-cam.com/video/BpOasVoBSvU/w-d-xo.html
Always a pleasure to see you drive , with respect and also the narration is really good with in depth knowledge of the machine and the history. keep doing the good work
My favorite car, I grew up on this car, idc about people don’t buy bmw since I use to own a 3 series e46. Drive is worth now I have the money to macitence it
My son has a 2002 M3 Individual, 6-speed manual, manual seats w/cloth inserts, and no sunroof. He's the second owner. He too busy to drive it much anymore. I've been on him to sell it while the prices are high.
Not a fan of BMW but when this came out. I was really impressed. I am more so Honda and Toyota fan. These E46 M3 are such a timeless beautiful design.
Proud owner of basically the same car from the same year. Love it more than my F30 daily.
I bought an M3 new back in 2004 and this really brings back memories. Thanks for posting!
Its so insane how the value of E46 M3’s have just skyrocketed
And e36 m3 😝
Tedward really needs to make a Porsche 944 video. An extremely underrated car that deserves more love
I had a coupe and vert e46 m3. Both 6 speeds. I now own an e92 m3 dct. I miss the e46 and I will own another one in the future. E46 is a classic. Probably my fav design
Excellent video my friend - spot on about the size; E46's are perfect!
Favorite TH-camr with one of my dream cars! Great video!
Appreciated!!
S54 engine itself is iconic as 333hp was pretty big when it was released I love in-line 6
Best video of the E46 I’ve seen, as an owner I have the same reaction to you going quiet as you go through the revs ❤
bmw was pumping out bangers left and right during this era
Totally agreed, this is peak M3 for me even though it isn't the best at everything. That ENGINE, it is peak inline 6, the rasp is fantastic, the powerband is just right. It is a true gem. 😘👌
finally bro drives my fav car of all time.
I test drove one today, and i really think its my next car coming from a GT86. Absolutely adored these cars for years and the induction noise is incredible. Does feel oddly similar to my 86 tho just more premium
One of the best cars ever made. I replaced mine with an E92 M3 but still miss the E46 a lot.
Your not wrong!!! I’m building my e46 M3 at the moment, here’s where I’ve got to so far if your interested👌 th-cam.com/video/BpOasVoBSvU/w-d-xo.html
What differences have you found?
@@4our6ixkwvmz E46 definitely is more exciting and raw. E92 is more calming to drive fast which can be really nice. The E92 makes a pretty incredible daily and has a more premium feeling interior. Both are awesome cars, wish I could have both.
The ZF 6 speed in the E92 is way better than Getrag in the E46 in my opinion. The transmission sold me on the E92 when I first drove it.
@@ricegarage Nice. Thank you
Sold the E92 and went back to an E46.
Every time I see one of these all I can think about is how awesome Need For Speed: Most Wanted (2005) was. I'm pretty sure that game was also a reason people wanted to rip around in one of these gorgeous monsters.
I’m building my e46 M3 at the moment, here’s where I’ve got to so far if your interested👌 th-cam.com/video/BpOasVoBSvU/w-d-xo.html
I love my 2004 m3.
As I continue the endless fight of chassis slop in my Benz c207 chassis & know that a 6 speed will never happen as long as I stick to Benz, I REALLY needed this today.
I'll keep getting my wrenching skills up to par to be ready for BMW ownership as soon as my bank account is also ready. Thanks!
Just jump on it!!! I’m building my e46 M3 at the moment, here’s where I’ve got to so far if your interested👌 th-cam.com/video/BpOasVoBSvU/w-d-xo.html
My roommate back in college 2004-2005 had a at the time brand new M3 with the smg trans. That car was crazy fun I got to drive it a few times. I’m currently in the market for a 04-06 m3.
I have been looking for what first car to get when I get the money and for the past three days have watched a ton of content on the BMW E46 - out of a sudden, you post this. The universe is trying to tell me something 👀
Do it mate!!! I’m building my e46 M3 at the moment, here’s where I’ve got to so far if your interested👌 th-cam.com/video/BpOasVoBSvU/w-d-xo.html
You need to hop into a Camaro ZL1 with the 6 speed I feel like you'll enjoy that car massively. Big power and torque with great driver feel and shifter feel.
Owned 3 of these before. I find myself looking for my 4th
I think this is my dream car, Absolutely love the E46
I fell in love with the E39 and owned a 540i and M5 (when new). I enjoyed the V8s more than the raspy E46 M3, although I have driven a few. On track too. I believe there are 5 or 6 still owned by local CCA member friends. Most are well maintained and kept immaculate. Regarding modern BMWs, test drive the latest X3M. I just did quite well at an autocross in my 2020 X3M. Amazing high revving performance & great handling, while bowing to the luxury SUV crowd. And the latest LCI has improved the ride and low-end performance. PS: My friend does E39 head unit swaps with a more modern one (E70 X5 era I think). E46 swap should be the same.
I also prefer the e39 m5 or even a 540i 6 speed over an e46 m3. I tried hard to find an e39 m5 when I finally started making real money in my 20s. Couldn’t make it happen but I did end up with a 68k mile e46 m3 6 speed. Was actually pretty reliable compared to my f80 m3 that I have currently. Wish the market didn’t blow up on both the e39 and e46 generation. I’d definitely own another. Also, I absolutely agree with you on the X3M. One day I’ll grab one of those now that I’ve started a family. That X3M is the best blend of performance and family hauler.
I’m interested in that head unit swap, do you details/ website of your friend?? I’m building my e46 M3 at the moment, here’s where I’ve got to so far if your interested👌 th-cam.com/video/BpOasVoBSvU/w-d-xo.html
Look at that GOAT E46 M3 💪
the golden era of BMW-s.
This is the last true Bmw M3. Just a masterpiece!
Used to watch you before i had a car and license and it really scratched the itch i had to drive , great video
I sold my 911 turbo for a 2022 toyota tacoma because dad life is coming soon, but this is my dream second car! I had an s54 in my z4m... That engine screams!
These cars were quirky in terms of the reliability/dependability but with the right care there's no reason you couldn't drive one for 200k+ miles. Great size, styling and the S54 does sound legendary.
I had a E46 and at the time I absolutely loved it I thought it was the best-looking car on the road I had offset 18in BBS wheels on coilovers it was beautiful...... But now I have an E 92 I think the e92 platform looks a lot better but I like them both but the lines on the e92 are just hard to beat they killed it with that design
Hopefully will be getting an E46 as my law school graduation present to myself :)
Don't have an BMW, let alone an E46 M3 (would love one) but having a working ancient navigation system is great, feels like you are back in the early 2000s with your 20 year old navigation system guiding you in your car. (experience from my dad's b5 RS4, which you as an American have surprisingly reviewed which is amazing 👍)
I had a built S54B33 with a CSL airbox thrown in my E30 and it's an absolute riot
My favorite M3.
Absolutely my favorite bmw so gorgeous
7:52 actually, one of the first ever sport sedans is the Alfa Romeo Giulia TI Super introduced in 1963. It was one of the first ever 4 door cars to be produced with lighter weight and more power to double as a mass manufactured family sedan and a touring car. I always thought the M3 was genesis and the last word for a car you can fit 4 people in and scare them to death when you step on it. I only know that because I've been a rabid M3 fan my whole life and always wanted one, but then, the new Alfa Romeo Giulia QV came out, and I ened up getting that instead. It wasn't until becoming a huge Alfista that I learned about how much Alfa has given the world, and the first Giulia is no exception to what they could achieve. Of course, Alfa never got the recognition or sales they deserved, and have always just been a niche thing amonst a small cross section of car fans. But, I do agree that BMV perfected the super saloon. Its crazy tha the new Giulia Quadrifoglio has been called "the M3 killer", when many years after the first Giulia was gone, forgotten, and basically killed, BMW took that idea and brought it back to life.
Very interesting!! I’m building my e46 M3 at the moment, here’s where I’ve got to so far if your interested👌 th-cam.com/video/BpOasVoBSvU/w-d-xo.html
12:10 was the best pull. didnt touch limits but it was significant
My favorites BMW M3 E46 🤩
I was literally just looking at buying one of these yesterday lol
Do it!!! I’m building my e46 M3 at the moment, here’s where I’ve got to so far if your interested👌 th-cam.com/video/BpOasVoBSvU/w-d-xo.html
Yep .. much love for the S54. I have an E85 Z4 M Roadster ..awesome car.
I love m3 gtr e46 just because of nfsmw 2005
I own one, and what you said about it wanting to be driven hard is so true! It's so hard to drive slow.
Hey this looks just like mine! Great vid as always!
Lucky!