BMW M3 (E46) | Sports Cars

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Year (of specifications)	2006
Engine	3246 cc inline 6 cylinder
Transmission	6-speed, sequential manual
Max speed	155 mph (limited)
0-60 mph	5.2 seconds
Horsepower	343 bhp @ 7900 rpm
weight	1550 kg / 3415 lbs

Since its initial introduction the BMW M3 has been a member of an exclusive benchmark club against which all newcomers are tested.

Many purist motoring fans consider the first generation M3 (E30) to be the truest 'M' car. Built for one reason. To be driven. Although cars like the M3 GTR (E46) could hardly be described as soft.

For 2006, BMW's M3 is powered by a 343 horsepower straight 6 cylinder. Hooked up to the rear wheels via a 6-speed SMG (sequential manual gearbox).

Standard and optional fittings for the 2006 M3 also include; leather upholstery, power rear-window sunshade, and optional 19-inch forged alloy wheels.

In a high-performance sports car, instruments are of paramount importance; the 2006 BMW M3 does not disappoint. Its instrument cluster resembles that of the BMW M5 with bright rings around each of the four dials, M logo in the speedometer, and red pointers throughout. The tachometer is of great interest. The variable warning segment from 4000 to 8000 rpm reminds the driver to not approach maximum performance until the engine is warm. Based on the increase of oil temperature as the car continues to warm up, the LED display illuminates amber at 4000 rpm and shuts off in increments of 500 rpm. As the engine warms up, the segment shortens and reaches its normal 7500-8000 rpm red range, which always remains illuminated.

The tachometer’s advanced servo-motor operation is revised to keep pace with the M3 engine’s rapid rate of acceleration. In M3's equipped with the Sequential Manual Gearbox, once the engine is warm, these LEDs illuminate progressively as engine revs climb, helping the driver shift right at the redline. Also in the tachometer face is an analog oil-temperature gauge.

The next step up for the BMW M3 Coupe is optional power sport seats, with 8-way power adjustment and manual thigh support. These are included in the Coupe’s optional Premium Package and are available as a stand-alone option as well; they include a memory system for the driver’s seat and outside mirrors. Standard in the M3 Convertible are 10-way power sports seats, the added adjustment being a combined one for the head restraint and belt height; the Convertible’s front safety belts are fully integrated into the seats, optimizing belt fit on the occupants and easing entry into the rear seats.

See Also:
BMW 3-Series (E46) vs Audi A4 (B5) Buyer's Guide

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