2000 BMW M3 Pictures, Specifications, Information

Contrary to its predecessor, the E46 M3 accentuates its outstanding performance and dynamic driving qualities even more than before through its exciting, eye-catching design. But is almost goes without saying that the car remains just as practical and appropriate for everyday motoring: It is still the same unique high-performance automobile destined to lead the way in its class through the sum total of its outstanding features.

The Engine

The 3.2-liter straight-six with double-VANOS and individual throttle butterflies is featured for the first time with the same configuration and specifications in all national versions the world over, providing maximum output of 343 bhp in ECE trim (333 bhp in the US version) at 7900 rpm. The BMW M high-speed concept applied in the development of this power unit follows the same standards and criteria applicable to the most demanding racing engines in the world featured in Formula 1.

With engine capacity being increased by only 1.4 per cent over the previous model, the high-speed concept nevertheless boosts engine output by 6.9 and engine torque by 4.3 per cent. Consistent fine-tuning of the cylinder charge cycle and elimination of all throttle losses has increased output per litter from 100 to almost 106 bhp.

The Transmission The six-speed gearbox has been carried over virtually unchanged from the previous M3. Interacting consistently with the final drive, the transmission allows the driver to exceed the 100 km/h mark in second gear, while sixth gear provides the electronically limited top speed of 250 km/h or 155 mph at moderate engine revs.

The Chassis/Suspension

The chassis and suspension of the new M3 marks a consistent evolution of the previous system and its components. Despite the slight increase in the car's dimensions, BMW M's chassis engineers have succeeded in enhancing the previous model's handling features to an even higher standard, while retaining all the everyday driving qualities so important on the road.

The Variable M Differential Lock

These qualities are also ensured by DSC Dynamic Stability Control with an optional switch-off function and the newly developed Variable M Differential Lock able to provide significantly better traction even in very demanding driving situations, for example with the drive wheels running on surfaces with a different frictional coefficient (split µ). In combination with the finely tuned DSC system and its well-balanced axle load distribution, the Variable M Differential Lock thus gives the new M3 driving qualities in winter previously regarded as quite impossible with a rear-wheel-drive sports car.

Design

The new BMW M3 is extremely muscular, wide, but nevertheless elegant at first sight. Through its new front air dam complete with integrated fog lamps in ellipsoid design and the large cooling air intake scoops, the new M3 stands out clearly from all other models in the BMW 3 Series. Another outstanding new feature is the new graphic design of the M3's engine compartment lid featuring a powerdome in the middle to provide sufficient space for the power unit of the new car.

Interior

The new M3 leaves hardly anything to be desired also through its wide range of interior features. Automatic air conditioning with separate temperature selection for the driver and front passenger comes as standard, and in terms of passive safety the new BMW M3 offers all the superior features so typical of the BMW 3 Series: frontal, side and head airbags are all fitted as standard for the driver and front passenger, two side airbags are available as an option on the rear seats. The interior courtesy lights package also featured as standard even comprises the illuminated gearshift lever with its six-gear pattern and M logo, as well as the interior mirror with its automatic anti-dazzle function.