The Legendary E46 BMW M3: I Can't Be The Only One Who Thinks This...

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Today I revisit the mighty BMW E46 M3. Having owned one in the past, and reviewed several, it is a car that has always disappointed - but have I been too harsh on it? Let's find out today with this nicely cared for example
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[@JayEmmOnCars]

CarVertical: The History Checking Service Use this link or code "JAYEMM" for a discount! www.carvertical.com/gb/landing/v3?b=1e4c9523&a=JayEmm&voucher=jayemm&chan=jayemm

[@Sid3300]

This era of BMW was great, the styling was pretty much bang on.

[@JayEmmOnCars]

Style wise, they're fantastic

[@malcolmhardwick4258]

@@JayEmmOnCars Shame I didnt age as well as this beemer

[@derekschipper8721]

Not Bang-gle…

[@Sid3300]

@@derekschipper8721 Yeah Bangle era divides people greatly.

[@R04drunner1]

​@@derekschipper8721 💯

[@moh2502]

E38, E39 & E46 was peak Bmw

[@kevinsetiawan2147]

But E 82 1m is one of the best car bmw ever made

[@moh2502]

@@kevinsetiawan2147 N54 LoL

[@Ap-gk4rs]

E31 those pop up headlights

[@bekabeka71]

E36 and e34 the best ever Rip Giorgi tevzadze

[@MontgomeryPisswhistle]

E46 330d coupe owner, here. 10 years and over 100K miles of ownership and I love the car as much as rhe day I bought it. Im never selling.

[@OdyTypeR]

Overrated? Absolutely. Still amazing? Alsolutely.

[@user-ym5mw8ft6d]

Will be more and more overrated(but more like in a deserved way) seeing BMW-s new design route...Newest BMW's are ugly AF with their enormous grilles.

[@jean-charlesweyland129]

@@user-ym5mw8ft6d The E9 was a perfect design, the E46 looks just like a Rover of the same period

[@ThrottleBody]

@@jean-charlesweyland129tell me which rover you’re referring to 😂

[@jean-charlesweyland129]

@@ThrottleBody a 93-96 200 coupé without the rear spoiler and the two part grill

[@nvl2691]

@@jean-charlesweyland129 Yeah no.

[@larryjimbob]

Visually it's still a beautiful looking car.....BMW, pleeeeeease take note! 😢😔

[@BPoweredLove]

The BMW designers are all well aware of the E46 and continue in their current trajectory.

[@Beer_Dad1975]

Even if they paid attention design wise - engineering would still be "lease don't buy".

[@Beer_Dad1975]

It's a 3 box Euro sedan - nothing that amazing.

[@rckrckrckrck]

Last truly great design they did IMO.

[@m3ooyay]

I've owned mine for 5 years now, spent over 3 years getting it back up to scratch. I've spent well over £10k on it to get it up to spec. A year ago it all finally come together and drove it on track. All the money, pain and stress was well worth it. It's incredible. No matter where I go, it attracts everyone from all different age groups. The amount of people I've met through this car and hobby is incredible.

[@jmsjms296]

Good. May I ask you: How many of these people are now your "friends"?

[@m3ooyay]

@@jmsjms296 The trip we just went on, 15 were friends made from cars/groups since owning the Bmw. 10 of those were on the previous couple of trips. Outside of the trip I speak to most every week, if not daily. It’s a great community 👍

[@jmsjms296]

@@m3ooyay Great! Enjoy 💕

[@shammi13]

Nowhere near an M3, but I have a low mileage pre facelift E46 330i Touring in Silver. It has all the extras (black leather, cruise control, heated seats, parking sensors). Perfect second car, it can do anything and is fun to drive and sounds great. Not the fastest car by any measure, but still powerful enough to enjoy. Will never sell it.

[@R03333]

I've recently got a 330i touring for some road tripping & its perfect. 6 cylinder note, manual (even if it's so loose it feels like stirring soup), comfortable on the motorway cruising but also perfectly capable navigating overgrown Welsh valleys & the boot is genuinely big enough to sleep in if you put the rear seats down. Its not modern day "quick" but perfectly adequate for most UK traffic & overtaking you might require.

[@missogyny4921]

@@R03333If you feel so inclined at some point to remove the gearbox (or have to for a clutch replacement), the sloppy gearchange issue is easily fixed by replacing the several rubber bushes external to the gearbox. Did it on my E85 3.0 Z4 (essentally the same car) and it transformed it.

[@tryshe93]

Got the same touring in silver 😂 for the trips with the familly. Love it!

[@TheKirky]

Nice bro

[@lawriemillerdrums888]

Couldn’t agree more. Love my 30i manual touring. SE spec with sport seats. Maximum comfort but with maximum power. 🎉

[@user-qn6yt3zx3w]

Drove one of these in my favourite twisty road and was blown away - stunning car. Then I drove a 997 Carrera on the same road and realised the BMW couldn’t hide its humble family car origins. Still want one - that classic BMW’ness is just so right.

[@mrivantchernegovski3869]

I had a E46 M3 that got stolen and insurance payed out so i got a real cheap E36 M3 4 door in bland silver with a blown motor ,happen to have a Nissan RB25DET aqnd a R33 box lying around so it got jammed in the E36 with a bigger turbo and Haltech ECU ,now i got a reliable non vanos RB that pumps 290 kw at the rears all day every day ,its happy to do traffic no worries or out on the back roads ripping it up at night ,Its actually a better chassis that handles way more than my old S13 Silvia ,great channel that i watch here in New Zealand

[@Sawubona2007]

What's the channel mate?

[@mrivantchernegovski3869]

@@Sawubona2007 I was refering to this channel lol

[@Sawubona2007]

@@mrivantchernegovski3869 ah whoops 🙏

[@kallekas8551]

RB25det is an amazing engine!

[@Whatisthisstupidfinghandle]

I have no idea what you just said

[@andrewpercival1427]

As an owner of a coupe manual E46 M3 for many years and i have no intention of selling i can admit that it's by no means a perfect car in standard form but...and it's a big but....just owning one puts a smile on my face and they sound and look great, they are high maintenance but any performance car of this era you can pretty much say the same and the odd big bill will arise but general maintenance really isn't that bad, when i first got mine i found it abit underwhelming at slow speed and wondered what the fuss was about, these are cars to be driven fast and they really come alive, keep it over 3000 revs and it's a stunner, not a perfect car but a special one imo.

[@JayEmmOnCars]

If you enjoy, that's all that matters

[@dividedbyzero96]

@@Angus_____ Coupe and convertible

[@andrewpercival1427]

@@Angus_____ no convertible aswell

[@K1dPhresh1]

What? A convertible is not a coupe. Sure it has 2 doors but the top comes off. Just as different as if it had 4 doors.

[@mikebader3863]

Couldn’t agree more, every drive in mine is an event

[@mcgherkinstudios]

At least the owner has done the right thing here. The best noise in an E46 comes from the front, and the worst comes from the back. Sadly most E46 owners seem to have not got the message and drive around everywhere sounding like a pissed off wasp in a tin can.

[@energymc22]

When these first came out I thought they sounded stupid, like a rattling heat shield. As time went on, I started to like that buzzy sound 😅

[@stefanfreestylez]

I had a set up(check on channel) that sounded almost like some sort of exotic but its very very easy to fuck it up. With muffler alone you have a honda civic. Same with headers alone. But with right headers and right muffler you have something unreal haha

[@y2ksierra]

The actual CSL replica boxes make one of the best affordable sounds in the automotive world. Takes a flat plane V8 to outdo them, at least in my opinion.

[@gmain1977]

​@@y2ksierra no any V8 NA can out do them. Cannot beat a V8 sound

[@Ethylmorph]

@@gmain1977 so much beats a V8 .. to name a few Any Rotary Any inline 6 Any inline 5 Any v10 Any vr6

[@samcas707]

Nostalgia is a helluva drug

[@Richjtj]

Bronze Bola reps on a 46 M3 should be illegal.

[@williamfence566]

Had an E36 version years ago and you're right about always needed something . Found a local specialist who's colleague once joked that he was glad I was in the workshop again as he needed a bit more money for a holiday. Running right it was lovely.

[@27lacuna27]

My E46 was fantastically reliable but my E36 was much more fun.

[@DjNikGnashers]

This ^ !

[@user-ue6iv2rd1n]

They're not all that reliable if you're buying one now, you have to remember they're classic cars. I get a new issue with mine every week and that's after overhauling just about everything.

[@27lacuna27]

@@user-ue6iv2rd1n well yeah, thats to be expected. Both my E36 and E46 were final year versions so were about as sorted as they were going to be

[@ftffighter]

@@user-ue6iv2rd1n Exactly, one word... PLASTIC.

[@hatespeach9835]

Got a e46 330ci Coupe in silver... Just makes me miss my 1986 totally standard 2.8i original wedge shaped supra... Two fingers on the steering any speed turns instantly... Super smooth ride No body roll... Blip the throttle and tug the steering resulted in an instant wheel spinning 180 turn from a standstill or just hold the throttle for doughnuts... Had it 12 years everything always worked....

[@matteightytwo]

Totally agree and this has been my view for 20 years. I was a 36 fanboy, my uncle had a modified one growing up, wide arches and all. I remember the article in EVO, I remember the front cover, and I was in awe... I was now a 46 fanboy, it had the same wide arches we put on my uncles 36 Then I drove one. Maybe I was used to "harder" cars but it felt very ordinary. Good, but not special. The engine is a sensation but it felt over hyped The 36 was smaller, more wieldy, more compact, underrated

[@MrSanjeevsan]

Exactly. The E36 is much better to drive. Its more hunkered down and more nimble. Although, having said that, both the E46 and E36 really needs to be driven hard to be enjoyable. Driven hard in the dry, they're awesome. If you're just mucking about doing 6 tenths, they're really nothing special and not worth the hassle of maintenance.

[@OzSaudarna]

@@MrSanjeevsantalking my language m8. E36 ALL DAY but none of m8s will hear me tho… 😅

[@varsas10]

This applies to the non M cars too. Went from an e36 328 coupe to an e46 330 Msport coupe and the later car felt numb in comparison. Yes, it looked better inside and out and the engine was great but the e36 felt like a sports car, the e46 only came alive on track.

[@MrSanjeevsan]

@@OzSaudarna It's all good m8. The more the E36 goes unnoticed, the better it is for us. Buy and keep good examples while you can m8. The E36 driven in anger is a beutiful thing to experience. The car says "Oh yeah? Bring it on" and it challenges you and dares you to push even more. Usually, I'll give up before the car does. The E36 scares me at times; there is more performance available to it than what most people believe. Set it up properly and that car can really² take fast corners. You just need the cajones to do so. E36 = best car 💕

[@OzSaudarna]

@@MrSanjeevsan you’re right there. Long may it continue. I’m still searching for another, hopefully I’ll be back behind the wheel of one again. Biggest regret letting the last one go. Enjoy yours m8!

[@akerr911]

I was going to comment before watching, I waited! I have owned mine for 10 years, it has eaten my wallet annually and exactly as you said when it wasn’t having major surgery I was doing the brakes, suspension the csl air box etc. recently the rear arches had to be cut out and re fabricated, this was a huge bill…. The thing is i own and have owned far greater cars, I’m so upside down in this one I wouldn’t let it go. Would I change any of this no, I love cars I have enjoyed the process with mine. Owning my perfect e46 m3 gives me so much joy. Buyers beware!!!!

[@ca9968]

I owned both an E36 M3 German Spec Coupe and an E46 M3 Coupe and still to this day insist that the E36 was the better all rounder for daily use...it wasn`t as powerful as the E46 but it somehow just felt lighter on its feet and easier to drive...I always found the manual box in the E46 to be a little difficult to live with, the gear throw was too long and the clutch was horrendous to use in Johannesburg traffic (where I was when I owned both cars)...

[@OzSaudarna]

100% agree with you m8 but for some reason, the e46 got all the hype over the better handling e36…

[@SpiritedDriving]

A fellow South African! I think the E36 sounds better too, at least from the exhaust.

[@ca9968]

@@SpiritedDriving I agree with that statement too Bru...raspy under 3000rpm and then a banshee wail after 3500rpm all the way to the redline...

[@DjNikGnashers]

Always loved the E46 M3 shape, but slightly prefer the E36 M3 shape even more. I think they are the perfect fun car, not too big, not too powerful, just perfectly right to exploit everything on a public road. The only thing even better is the OG M2, which is like a better looking, slightly better handling, slightly more powerful, and better sounding car.

[@targaR32]

I honestly felt the same way. Drove an E46 M3 and the E92 335i back to back. The 335i felt more like what I thought an M3 should be. Still love the way the E46 looks...

[@SicSemperBeats]

hard to beat a 335 in value. when maintained, they are one of the best overall bmw's

[@lloydgriffiths1847]

I think for many people (but speaking for myself at the moment), like a lot of cars, it’s a recipe of nostalgia + looks. When I was a wee boy, 5/6 years old I remember my dad coming down the driveway in a then fairly new E46 3 series, not an M or even a 6 cylinder but just a really tastily spec’d saloon. And that memory is imprinted in my brain. That, plus the looks and intake noise of the of the M model and getting more into cars as I got older, meant that despite knowing its flaws, it is my dream car. Despite being overrated in the driving department and not even being much of a “high end” car, it just is one of the cars I’ve lusted for the most. I did hear they rectified the handling with the CS model but they’re unbelievably rare.

[@huwprice881]

Thank you for curing me of that itch! I love my E39 525 to death, I've done 120,000 miles in 12 years of ownership, and I still love its looks and the way it drives, and it hasn't bankrupted me - yet. I just wish I'd bought that M5 in carbon black, 55,000 miles, with the caramel heritage interior, and BMW FSH for £8k 😭

[@nimilieber]

I think that 25 years after , the M3 biggest problem is the 330ci zhp , way cheaper , still has a glorious m52 and it would be way more reliable and easy to own, yes it's not quite the drama or the firepower of the m3 but it would get you most of the way unless you really going to push the car to it's limit, and if you must do that and have something sportier than a 330 ci go buy a 996 or 997.

[@Whatisthisstupidfinghandle]

Loved my 2002 Imola Red 330 Ci Did a 3 day BMW track course on this M3

[@jurcicmax237]

M54*

[@posniknelb6114]

Correct. Definitely someone who doesn't know what he's on about.

[@rare6499]

In many respects it is overrated, but that doesn’t take from so many of the aspects that fuelled that legacy. It’s a timeless wonderful piece of design (E46 in general). In terms of proportions, subtlety, it’s handsome, it’s just right. Nothing is overdone. It’s in stark contrast to current BMW designs. Then the interior is a masterclass in ‘just right’. The quality was a massive step over the e36, everything felt good. I’ve owned multiple 330Ci’s and I think they are a beautiful car, great noise, feel like a mini GT car in terms of weight and ability to cruise at good speed quite effortlessly.

[@JayEmmOnCars]

I disagree with nothing you've said

[@mc1703]

How can the 330ci be great and the M3 mediocre if they share the same steering?

[@JayEmmOnCars]

@@mc1703 expectations

[@ShedLifeUK]

@@mc1703330 had a purple tag rack which is slightly quicker than the M3 which has a slight dead zone in the middle for higher speeds.

[@cologne2792]

My friend has a similarly propelled Z3M roadster. It's hysterical!

[@MrElnuno]

Hello James, well you place me in a quandary here because I know you have driven many many cars over your time and I do value your opinion, but then I factor in that I owned an E46 M3 some years ago which I thought was just amazing. It could be that I just remember the car more fondly than it actually was good. Hmmm. I've always been a Porsche person and I know I wouldn't sell my 911 for an E46 M3, but I do still love them, and if a good CSL can up for sale in my area I would be in all sorts. Good video all the same, so well done once again!

[@stevojohn]

Think the console was even more driver focussed in the E36.

[@howarddavies136]

You're pretty much bang on tbh. Once I've done my solid steering coupler and a 4.1 diff I'll be done with mine from a driving feel perspective. After that, I just need to make it breathe better.

[@RiperSnifle]

The problem i have with these cars, and a lot of cars at the moment, is the ridiculous pricing in the used market. 20,25, 30 thousand pounds for a 25 year old beemer in good condition but with 100k+ miles that costs thousands a year to run? What?? Its MENTAL. I cannot believe people are paying these prices. Like Jay said, its just not special enough to afford that price tag.

[@thedetailingdoctor5746]

Plenty for 10/14k

[@RiperSnifle]

@@thedetailingdoctor5746 yeah that'll need thousands spent to perform and be reliable enoguh like a modern car

[@james.james99]

A new G80 is 80,000 pounds and you won’t see any of those running around in 25 years time. The running costs on the e46 are also tiny compared to the deprecation on the new G80. I know which one is the smarter long-term ownership prospect

[@amospizzey1]

100% this

[@marcust123]

Spot on its a joke

[@christopherrose626]

I sold my E46 M3 CiC with SMGII last year because I was no driving it enough to justify the pain of living in Manhattan. Specified and built to order in 2002, Carbon Black paint on Cinnamon interior. Drove it just under 60k miles in 21 years. When new it was something special in terms of performance and even after 20 years it still sounded great and was more than quick enough if you revved it. I am not sure what James means about the steering and roadholding as I always felt you could throw it around country bends with no worries. Have to agree about the suspension being a bit harsh although a next gen 3 series on runflats was far worse on the same roads. Now here is the thing: I had almost zero problems in 21 years of ownership. No VANOS issues, no rod bearing issues (mine was original faulty batch which they did under warranty the year it was released so maybe that's why). Had one cracked rear spring but I think I did that by running off the end of my road one night half asleep. Only when it was 19 years old did anything even break - first the alternator (cheap) and then the SMG pump (expensive). Incredibly inexpensive to maintain other than insurance and the routine maintenance.

[@fransb8543]

I own a 2002 330ci convertible which I have converted to a 6-speed manual with all the right OE bits. No expenses spared on maintenance, inside, outside, underneath and under the hood. All seals, critical sensors etc. are new. Most recently I've installed new B4 dampers, eibach springs, bushings and assorted bits all round. No other tuning bits other than a matt black strut brace which makes all the difference. It's no M3 but I love the performance, sound, relative usability and suspension setup. I think a decent E46 will eventually become a rarity so I'm happy I got one 8 years ago.

[@dungaman90]

I owned a '01 330i convertible and thought the only thing it really needed was a 6 speed. I think the E46 really suits convertible styling. Beautiful looking cars.

[@fransb8543]

@@dungaman90 I agree. Mine was an automatic and it was the only thing that consistently let it down a bit in my opinion. I already have 2 automatic daily drivers so for a weekend car I wanted a manual. And once you commit to going through all the trouble to convert auto to manual it doesn't make sense to go with a 5sp if you can reasonably afford to go for a 6sp.

[@jamesdreeveaudio5538]

I'm 21 and I recently got myself a 330CI, it's so great to hear you speak of it so highly!

[@simonjones3886]

Every time I get in my e46 m3 I love it! 12 years of ownership! I always click the sport button and click traction control off before moving, maybe that’s where you’re going wrong! ;) I wish I hade that interior colour though ✨

[@energiam880]

I never thought I'd see Cranfield Village in a motoring show :D I can attest to that corner being called a rollercoaster on the bus to Cranfield University

[@F41LZZz]

I own a e46 m3. Do i agree with every problem you put forward? Yes. Do i think its over rated? No. Of your three complaints steering is a big one for me also. My previous car was a mk7.5 golf gti with electric steering which had more feeling through the steering than the stock hydraulic rack in the m3. Luckily it can be noticeably improved by switching to a standard non m3 steering rack (no longer progressive). Still feels numb but way faster and no longer dead on center. And I also agree strongly with you about the stock suspension. it is pointlessly harsh, and overall not well controlled. I don't know of any aftermarket alternatives that make the car softer. Mine has KW v3 coil overs on it, which has made the ride at least more controlled. Ultimately these are not deal breakers for me or the cost of maintenance but i completely understand why any one of them would be for some one. to me its always special to drive. and when I get to drive it hard i have a smile ear to ear. maybe that will change in a few years.

[@JayEmmOnCars]

Glad to hear I'm not too far off!

[@galazoulay8498]

Koni yellow/dinan springs

[@ShedLifeUK]

KW street comfort are probably best for our roads. Have them on my 46 330 estate

[@KC-lg8qf]

Do you miss the GTI?

[@F41LZZz]

​@@ShedLifeUK arr ok, I got a mate thinking of switching his suspension out on his m3. i'll recommend him these. thanks for the suggestion I've really grown to love the v3's. on a good bit of back road, it handles everything beautifully.

[@romerosneck]

The 3, 5 and 7 series of this era were all iconic

[@ericlovett9022]

I have to say I agree with almost everything James had to say about this version of the M3. Having owned mine since 2004, I can assure you they demand constant attention. Head Gasket, Vanos. Differential, Leaking Mirror, Broken Springs, susceptible to corrosion if not paying attention underneath. Electrical glitches. You name it. They require constant investment and if not made they are heading to the scrap heap quite quickly. That said the interior is great and miles better than the E90. Its a troubled love affair but she is still here and will have the RACP repair in few months time just in case. A very good review James. Many thanks.

[@classiccarssp]

Years ago looking for an E46 M3 until I tested the 330CI M Sport manual 6 speed from a friend... loved it and got one exactly the same ❤

[@UmbreonMow]

I love the honesty of this review. I've never driven one, so I have no idea how accurate you are but- it kind of doesn't matter. I appreciate your version of the truth.

[@JDCALDECOTT]

It’s absolutely not overrated. I went from a 318ci, to a 330ci and now an M3. It’s all about that S54, it’s just a beautiful engine, the rasp is addictive. It’s a great car to drive, steering issues are usually down to the guibo being shot, suspension can be fixed easily, brakes upgraded, all things every M3 owner should do. (I’ve also sound deadened the interior, worth it!) Okay, money needs spending, but it’s a wonderful car.

[@mustanglover1923]

Great video James. Always loved the idea of the E46 M3 and was considering one recently. So great to get your take on it. If you recall I posted on one of your vids recently asking which I should choose between a 996 turbo or an Evora S. You said the Evora is much more special. I’m pleased to tell you that I picked up an Evora 400 last week and it’s amazing.

[@MarkFritscher]

Great video as usual, I appreciate it!

[@chrisdooley1184]

I actually preferred my E36 M3 tbh. Call me a Philistine but I preferred the handling over the E46 version. Sure it had that US-spec M engine and was way down on power but I just had more fun in the E36 😊

[@mikeyap4159]

James you are absolutely right on the steering lack of feel and on center there is a big freeplay. Strange as I cannot remember them to be this 10 years ago..... The handling was quite spot on though, check the bushes and a set of KWV3 will make them ride properly with improved grip and Handling!

[@malthusg1115]

I would say the csl has the legendary status. This is still a classic though and an ageless design.

[@LifeStartsAtrpm-ru1xo]

Beautiful car, sadly with an awful SMG gearbox.

[@user-ym5mw8ft6d]

@@LifeStartsAtrpm-ru1xo SMG's biggest advantage is still being a manual---> perfect candidate for a manual conversion, haha.😂

[@dagnut]

Put it up against its rivals in 2000 and it's was an amazing car for the money. You can't say that about the recent M3s

[@user-ei4wk8yw3v]

Amazing straight line autobahn blaster, if that’s your thing then amazing. Most people have not driven a Lotus or good Ferrari , so have no reference to steering, feel and handling. Love your work.

[@paulk8888]

I've the SMGII and the rasp of the NA engine through the exhaust is a sound that never fails to disappoint. I have a "sensible" car for every day, but it will never give smiles per gallon like the E46 M3 does. Like you say some will love it some will hate it.

[@MrM3bmw]

Owned one of these for 3 years and it never missed a beat but it was only 3 years old at the time. I do miss the highly addictive sonorous rasp of that straight 6 and you do have to drive them fast to get the most out of them but to me I loved the car in general.However I now have a manual e92 M3 and that is even better !

[@lancegallant3647]

Deff agreed We have comp cars b7 rs4 love her :-)

[@jamesowendesign]

I’ve got an e85 Z4 M and it’s fantastic. BMW gave it some CSL parts and I think that makes a big difference. The S54 is what Honda wish they could’ve made with all of their VTEC engines and I owned two versions of those previous to my M Roadster.

[@johnshaw359]

E39 530is is the sweetest.

[@MrSanjeevsan]

Hell yeah. E39 = ❤ I have an E39 530i for daily commute and a modified E36 328i for shenanigans. Best 2 car combo.

[@Asgard2693]

E39 is an amazing car! 540! Is peak car imo especially in touring form

[@tcaudiobooks737]

530i club checking in. Giving it all the love it needs, never selling it.

[@willmagruder2861]

the one problem I have with mine is its old and there isnt a newer equivalent thats even close to as good that i could upgrade to

[@SPANNERRASH]

Having owned one for something like 8 years, and having just got back from taking the long way home from work in it, I have to say they're wonderful cars if your expectations are reasonable. Ultimately, if you're expecting TVR character from a 3 series, or are expecting porsche steering from a 3 series, you're going to be disappointed. Equally, if you're expecting Volvo reliability and frugality from a 3 series, you're going to be let down too. M cars can be famously needy, some more than others. Despite that there is something truly magical about these cars, the S54 is a masterpiece of an engine and the looks get better and better with age. If you're prepared to throw some money at one, you can also remedy most if not all of the issues. The steering is far too slow, I agree. And maybe they are overhyped somewhat. Keep in mind that BMW designed these cars for daily driving duties and for that they're excellent, you also see many used on track which is testament to their competence. Makes you realise that as an all-rounder enthusiast car, compromises don't get much better than this. Each to their own though, we all have our different tastes and that's what makes the hobby so interesting. Cheers! 😃

[@D4Z3Dii]

Always wanted one of these when i was young, been out in one on track and they are very capable. Ended up picking an E92 manual for the road as i think the steering is a bit better ( although still not a lotus).

[@Paul-D]

I think your bang on about the steering, I used to drive one of these (not owned by me) quite regular and I did love it but ALWAYS felt the steering was wrong.

[@ziginox]

The sunroof plus tilting rear windows combo is ace. My Isuzu Impulse is that way; even in the summer it's enough airflow to keep the interior cool. Roll down the (massive) windows and it's outstanding! I haven't owned another car like that since.

[@Jakes_Cars]

I’ve got a E46 325i manual and I think it’s brilliant, value for money is close to unbeatable and it’s still quick for what it is! 😎

[@chrissloan8953]

I have owned a lot of cars over my 47 yrs on this planet personal and company cars, i now have a old BMW E46 2 DOOR COUP 330ci M sport topaz blue best car i ever owned! yes when i first had it it was about 1k per year for about 4 yrs to get it right but now its great only 110k miles on a 2006 i Dailey it round town 23mpg -26mpg motorway ive have up to 38mpg fair play happy with that, its fast enough and has the toys. car tax well that's a different mater at £62 a month. Keep up the great work James mate.

[@daysofgrace2934]

It’s styling, isn’t trying too hard. It’s just the right amount of brawny and beauty…

[@petewigley9985]

I’ve owned an E46 for 16 years. It really isn’t over rated. It’s still under rated. It rivals some much more expensive modern cars. Not in speed but you aren’t going 0-60 in 3.5 seconds all the time are you? So imo it’s still underrated.

[@sclimbaugh9144]

I think your impressions are spot on. I had a E46 330 CI that I loved and drove for 15 years but I bought it twice in maintenance. Tried the M3 variant when it first came out and didn’t much care for it. The 330 CI seem to be better balanced. Great styling as well.

[@rabmc]

Owned a manual coupe for 7yrs and it’s a labour of love, it has its quirks granted and with every passing year it gets more and more attention which is interesting. On the road visually it’s fantastic, that much so my wife picked me up from work a few weeks back in the car and i rarely see it in this aspect let alone let anyone else drive it, but I was actually in awe of it visually. Now currently or well in 2 months she goes in to get the rear inner and outer arches fixed both sides, 2/3k of work to do correctly with the csl lip and so on done, rod bearings have been done, subframe not touched and as you say always something needing done. I’m fortunate that I can do majority of the work myself, and if you’re relatively handy it is a really easy car to work on if you do your research.

[@Will_M600]

They made sense when cheap

[@tyler951]

I’ve had my Mystic Blue on grey 2006 E46 330ci ZHP 6spd for almost 12 years and still love it. I have a shark tune, a Vibrant Streetpower 1149 muffler and 2nd resonator delete. I run the stock style 135 staggered 18in wheels with continental extreme contact sport tires. It’s a wonderfully balanced machine that you can enjoy driving spiritedly on public roads without destroying speed limits. Has 127k miles and In generally good health. Has cost me about $1100 usd per year in maintenance including everything with me DIYing most maintenance and repairs which I feel is very reasonable.

[@marcdavis2840]

I had my M3 SMG back in 2003 or 2004 ran it for 3 years as a company car. It never broke down or had any issues other than servicing and tyres. I loved the SMG box. The induction noise was addictive. I put a set of CSL alloys on it and it looked the dogs dangly bits. Maybe I was just lucky or James is just out of time to have had the best of one.

[@ThunderChunky101]

One of the most beautiful cars ever made. It's perfect looking. It's what pops into my head when I think of the word "car"!

[@jjjnout6778]

Had a 00 328ci in 2002 for a couple of years. Every single extra except sunroof. Still wonder why i sold it.

[@Blade1310]

James, I have never found myself nodding in agreement with any of your videos more than this one. Not quite in the league of an M3 but I have an M340i which suits me perfectly. Great enjoyment when I want and 45mpg cruising in luxury when being sensible. If only I could also have the steering and brakes from my previous Cayman S then I would be in heaven!

[@Yadzay]

Really interesting review! I've had 2 330ci's and they remain in my mind the best car I've ever owned. Like you say they do sporty normal car really well, they sound epic and look brilliant too. I went looking for an E46 M3 as an upgrade but it didn't feel different enough to warrant the extra 10k at the time. I bought a z4m instead which is a different proposition but one that it actually rather great as a fair weather car.

[@retrocarsyndicate8867]

Another excellent review really enjoyed this one must get in touch and see if you wanna test drive my legacy GTB E tune S edition think you did see it at the festival of the unexceptional blue estate

[@thezakie123]

I currently have an E46 manual Cab an 03 Carrera and an 05 Carrera S. The M3 easily has the best seats, steering weight/feel and general build quality. Amazing cars.. I also love the optional 19” wheels the M3 came with!

[@marccusumano1138]

E46 M3 Vert manual and 03 Carrera C4S owner here too...cheers! E46 M3 vert for me is the best looking E46, and the 911 coupe shape is achingly beautiful, so much more so than E46 coupe. I think they're both awesome cars and my dream garage has been achieved 🙂

[@BlueBullettM3]

I had an E46 M3 for nearly 10 yrs and it was my daily. Lots of track days and 2 Targa Tasmania events. I was impressed by it and it definitely made me smile.. I thought that the M car formula was to combine well a comfortable cruiser and a fun car. My test was to put the track tyres on the back seat, drive 900km after work on a Friday night and arrive reasonably refreshed. Saturday morning put the track tyres on and drive it like it’s stolen and then cruise back on Sunday in a quiet comfortable car. I did over 200,000km in it and I thought that the running costs were in keeping with the type of car and use. Fuel consumption was reasonable, 9.5ltr /100km. I live out of the city. I’ve not driven a Porsche, Lotus or Aston, so I don’t have that comparison.

[@simonh870]

This era of BMW was a high point in terms of interior quality. I like the later E92 in terms of exterior shape (it's another design classic) but the interior quality was a step back.

[@wccmarcus]

About all the things you highlighted (complained about) was eliminated with the CSL and later the CS (that used some of the parts from CSL). The original M3 had a steering rack that was designed for high speed stability (the initial dead zone). This was adjusted for CSL and later the CS (because CS has the CSL steering rack). The brakes on CS were CSL also. The springs was refined on CS (beneficial for UK roads).

[@janstaes2172]

lovely car, i liked the e36 better design wise. the 1st smg was introduced in the E36 M3 these are super rare.. (these 1ste boxes where not so good... )

[@hoodwinker7932]

Several years ago, I used to own a 2005 330d manual touring, a great car that brought me 4 years of enjoyment and practicality. 50ish mpg and it went quite quickly after a stage 1 remap gave me monster torque. Also a manual, and for the bargain price of £1500!

[@kitvexed8229]

my brother bought a 2001 M3 back in 2011 for $25,000 w/ 40k mi. thing was fresh! i had a modified volvo T5-R and we raced once and were dead even up to 100mph.. i think he could've beat me if he were a better driver as mine was automatic. anyhow, he drove it cross country and by the time he got to CA, he had engine leaks and rearend leaks at around 44-46k mi.. everyone romanticizes about that chassis and S54 motor, but really they were super high maintenance and would suck you dry the more you drove the car.. he got rid of it by 50-52k mi and never missed it .

[@dasstig5274]

I too had an e46 330ci and loved it and naturally lusted after the M3. Now the prices are getting a bit silly for worn out examples, this is a good reality check.

[@pshep138]

I bought a secondhand manual 2005 E46 M3 coupe in 2015. Drove it for ~ 22,000 miles in 15 months before hydroplaning and totaling it out. I've never wanted to own another one, never had the itch. This video perfectly explains why. My driver's side strut tower cracked. Water pump was seeping. VANOS was rattling. Strut tower brace itself cracked. The car was just constantly broken, and not just little mechanical issues - major structural issues. I never even looked at the rear subframe mounting points because I was so sure they were probably cracked and broken along with everything else.

[@armoris66]

😥

[@carlosbonilla1637]

100% agreed with you.. had one for 2 years, spent so much $$$ on it, and it was pretty much perfect after I was done with it.. although the shifter was less than optimal… typical BMW 6 speed transmission…but it just never “clicked” with me.. sold it and never regretted it at all.. got me a nice Miata and never looked back 👍

[@savots3812]

An interesting question then. What would be good average car that you can have fun with? I'm currently with Renault Megane 4 with 1.3 TCE 140HP and it feels a bit underpowered sometimes but my main problem with it is that it's not much communicative. It goes much better than I initially thought it will but I'm wondering if there is anything ordinary of that class that is quite better. I was thinking about Kia Ceed GT but KIA said they stopped selling them in Europe and the used prices are nearly enough to get entry level BMW 3 series.

[@kristianellis7061]

I currently have an e46 325ci and absolutely love it. Would be interested to hear your opinion on the steering on mine as it’s had all the tie rods etc replaced. Feel free to have a spin if your up N Wales any time soon. That said, this time next year I think I’ll be swapping for an m3. Be a sad day the 325 leaves that’s for sure it’s been brilliant

[@carlelfgren6395]

You might say "U turn if you like, the JayEmm is not for turning".I owned a E46 330Ci from 2000 to 2004. An absolutely brilliant car; I agree with you.

[@BionicRusty]

Great video 👍

[@Dan23_7]

I’ve never owned or driven an M3, I’d love to. I know a lad who owned the CSL that was featured on Top Gear eons ago. I have owned an e46 but the 2.0d compact, it was a fantastic car I wish I’d have kept. Was great speaking with you at ShedFest last week. I was telling you about the red GT4 my mate used to have, your drip tray under your Ferrari was brilliant 😂

[@malthusg1115]

Could you revisit the csl. Would love to know how you feel about that one.

[@djdrastic1]

Just the looks of this thing Gosh looks amazing even after all these years

[@stevesas632]

Nice interesting review Jay. How would you compare these with the 1M you drove?

[@drock852]

Keen to hear his thoughts on this too. Personally having gone from a sorted stock E46 m3 to 1m, there is no comparison, the 1m actually feels special from the perspective of the driving experience and feels more bespoke. Ofc the engines are totally different in character.

[@TML34]

The 1m has a twin turbo N54, totally different power delivery. The 1m feels like a muscle car, it’s awesome when tuned a bit.

[@marcust123]

1m is unreal way better car in every way

[@micksingh6711]

Absolutely loved this car. Really enjoyed it back in the day. 👍🏽👍🏽👍🏽❤️

[@ckm-mkc]

A friend had bought one new and it would randomly never start, the dealer never could figure out why. So he would ride his motorcycle to work.... One day his motorcycle was stolen, so he had it towed to the dealer and badgered them. They had to fly someone in from Germany to figure it out. Turns out the fog in his area would short the starter electronics (!). Good luck keeping these on the roads going forward..... Note: I own a Z3 Coupe 3.0 so not out of the woods.

[@lorddoosworth8175]

"Windscreen wipers work really well though." 🤣. Lucky I didn't take a swig of my coffee when you said that or my laptop screen would need windscreen wipers too 😆

[@ThexMJT]

Love the sound of E46's that raspy metallic sound is just something else.

[@eastbaystreet1242]

These are very, very nice daily driver sports cars, street cars, even family cars, which is what really matters - I think most car reviews put way too much emphasis on the extreme handling/racing capabilities of cars meant to be driven to work and out to dinner at night. And this design has held up better than almost any other car from that period. But it is funny that if you watch any of the zillion Nurburgring videos of customer street cars, these are among the top, if not the top spinners. Who knows, maybe not the car's fault, but you will see so many of these spinning that you will come to expect the spin as soon as the car appears on screen.

[@Psych0technic]

In fairness, the car has new shorter springs and dampers, and sport contact 7 are very harsh tires, hence jittery behavior. Not to mention that they are square. Steering rack is also probably a bit loose after all these years, tie rods could be the culprit, too.

[@JayEmmOnCars]

When I drive an E46 that's significantly better I may recant my opinion, but this far I have not

[@mikehertz6507]

Exactly what I was thinking

[@egirlsareruiningmylife]

I have those tyres in a way thinner size on my 46, they don't jitter at all

[@captainkirk1983]

​@@JayEmmOnCarsI am in the process of a full rebuild and restoration of a facelift E46 M3 coupe manual. I am adamant that it should be updated as close to stock as possible, so it's having a full OEM suspension overhaul, the rod bearings, vanos, head gasket, diff, gearbox bushings etc are all being done too. I've updated some bits in the interior, and the bodywork is being sorted too. If you wanna have a drive of it in the summer, let me know, it will likely be the closest to stock completely updated and overhauled car you'll drive, so it may be the definitive stock experience of a 20 odd year old car. The only exception is the intake which I've also done...

[@joemarch2863]

@@JayEmmOnCars I had a stock one with relatively low miles. I sold it after 6 months. I didn't like the steering (too light), the stock suspension was horrendously harsh and it was frankly a big and heavy car in comparison to my old e30s and 993. I swapped it for an e39 m5 which still adore to this day. Big and heavy as well, but the S62 engine is glorious, the ride is perfect for what it is and it's better built with fewer issues. BMW used to do sport sedans really well.

[@DanPyjamas]

Gorgeous car. The best looking E46 for sure. I had a 330ci, I had a choice when I sold that to either get an M3 or a 987 Boxster S. I went with the latter and to be honest, I don't regret that choice

[@roylanfernandez3640]

What would you rather have from this era and price range? I just fully refreshed an e46 and after driving an NA miata the e46 feels pretty numb. It starts to feel decent once it's pushed hard but on the street it feels like any other small sedan. I think a model 3 feels sportier.

[@jworpington]

I understand your point on “forgiveness factor”. I had a mk5 Golf Gti. Towards the end of my ownership it always needed something. But, I could always forgive the damn thing because it was so good to drive.

[@wilpeachy9749]

Completely agree Jay. Recently drove one of these with 52k miles, looked and felt brand new. Steering is completely dead and you feel isolated from the drivetrain. Not a special enough of an experience for me to put up with the maintenance. With current pricing a 987 blows this away!

[@CraigK80]

The 330ci is another one now becoming a classic. Arguably more car for the money as well. Can’t fault either!