BMW 325Ci Coupe (2004)

BMW 325Ci Coupe

The BMW E46 is a compact executive car which was produced by BMW from 1998 to 2007. It was introduced in May 1998 in the sedan body style. In 1999, a coupé and touring body style became available to all markets, and the sedan was released in the United States. A convertible and hatchback body style was released in 2000, the latter only for Europe, South Africa, Australia and New Zealand. The BMW E90 replaced the E46 sedans in late 2004, however the E46 coupe and convertible body styles remained in production until 2007.

All-wheel drive ("xDrive") was re-introduced in the 3 Series, after a break of 18 years. It was available for the six-cylinder 325xi and 330xi sedan/wagon models.

The E46 was considered the performance benchmark of its class and experienced success in many markets. The record selling year for the E46 chassis was 2002, when 561,249 vehicles were sold worldwide. The main competitors during the E46's production run were the Alfa Romeo 156, Audi A4, Lexus IS/Toyota Altezza, Mercedes-Benz C-Class, Saab 9-3 and the Volvo S60.

The M3 version of the E46 was powered by the BMW S54 straight-six engine. The M3 was released in 2001 and was available in coupé and convertible body styles. The transmissions available were a 6-speed manual or the 6-speed "SMG-II" sequential manual gearbox.

Exterior design

The E46 was developed as an evolutionary replacement for the BMW E36 chassis. In 1995, the general exterior design of the E46 by Erik Goplen was approved and as a result DesignworksUSA was contracted by BMW to work alongside BMW Group's in-house design team to create the exterior body work for the 3-Series range in February 1996. Based on the E36 body shell, the design team put an emphasis on improving aerodynamics and increasing the car's aggressive stance. Design patents were filed in Germany on July 16, 1997 and in the US on January 16, 1998. While the styling of the E46 was seen as an evolution of the extremely successful previous generation 3-series, it was not immediately embraced by either the buying public, or the automotive press. Word leaked out in the press that the BMW stylists were unhappy in raising the roof-line, and the general "rounding" of the body panels in comparison to the more squarish E36 series. Chris Bangle was responsible through January 1996 for the production saloon exterior, as evident in the 1997 design patent. Production development of the saloon took 24 months from January 1996 to January 1998. Goplen designed the production coupé and estate during 1996-1997.

Interior design

Since the production had started, the entire in-car entertainment system (Radio Function, Navigation System, Television and Telecommunications systems) is based on a very flexible automotive computer system. As a result the E46 models can all be easily upgraded with the newest BMW technologies including BMW's Bluetooth System, the DVD based Navigation system, as well as BMW's CD changers that play MP3s.

Weight and rigidity goals

An emphasis was put on reducing unsprung weight and increasing structural rigidity rather than increasing power output: the highest displacement model at release, the E46 328, had only 3 horsepower more than the E36 328. To counter this small power increase, the body shell of the E46 was claimed by BMW to be 70% more rigid than the E36's, and aluminum suspension components were used increasingly in order to decrease unsprung weight. However, with a curb weight of 1450 kg, the E46 328ci is 55 kilograms (121 lb) heavier than the E36 equivalent.

In tune with BMW's core values, the E46 was released with a front engined rear-wheel drive layout with 50/50 weight distribution. This balance allows for optimal handling in regard to the drive train layout.

This article is licensed under the GNU Free Documentation License. It uses material from Wikipedia.

- - 2015
    The progressive nature of the BMW 6-Series is also reflected in its diverse range of standard and optional driver assistance systems and mobility services...
    BMW 6-Series Coupe
  - 2015
    The new BMW M6 Coupe and new BMW M6 Gran Coupe (fuel consumption combined: 9.9 l/100 km [28.5 mpg imp]; CO2 emissions combined: 231 g/km) and new BMW M6...
    BMW M6 Coupe
  2 ⇵
- - 2012
    Its unmistakable design language gives the new BMW 6-Series Coupe an aura of athletic elegance. The sweeping bonnet, short front overhang and set-back...
    BMW 6-Series Coupe
  - 2013
    Like its predecessor, the roof of the new BMW M6 Coupe is made from carbon fibre-reinforced plastic as standard. The dark colouring of the roof gives the...
    BMW M6 Coupe
  2 ⇵
- - 2008
    Featuring highly attractive modifications to their characteristic design, an interior further refined in many details and boasting new color highlights, as...
    BMW 635d Coupe
- - 2004
    Although the BMW 6-Series designation had been last applied to a BMW in 1989, BMW has a long tradition of sport coupes and convertibles of the highest...
    BMW 645Ci
  - 2005
    With the launch of the BMW M6, BMW M GmbH is proud to present the most dynamic and sporting rendition of the BMW 6-Series Coupe. This makes BMW's large...
    BMW M6
  2 ⇵
- - 1976
    Engine: inline-6, 2985 cc Power: 182 hp (136 kW) at 5800 rpm Torque: 255 Nm (188 ft·lb) at 3500 rpm Top speed: 210 km/h (130 mph) Length: 4755 mm...
    BMW 630CS
  - 1978
    Engine: inline-6, 3453 cc Power: 215 hp (160 kW) at 5200 rpm Torque: 304 Nm (224 ft·lb) at 4000 rpm Top speed: 222 km/h (138 mph) Length: 4755 mm...
    BMW 635CSi
  2 ⇵
- - 1972
    Initially using the same engine as the 3.0 CS, the 3.0 CSL was given a very small increase in displacement to 3,003 cc (183.3 cu in) by increasing the engine bore...
    BMW 3.0 CSL
  - 1973
    This final version of the 3.0 CSL was homologated in July 1973 along with an aerodynamic package including a large air dam, short fins running along the front fenders...
    BMW 3.0 CSL
  2 ⇵
- - 2000
    The BMW Z8 revives the idea of a classic and is seen as the modern interpretation of the BMW 507 roadster dating back to the year 1955. Its breathtaking...
    BMW Z8
- - 2012
    BMW announced several modifications to the 2012 BMW 1-Series Coupe that accentuate efficiency and premium quality. The unmistakable profile of the BMW...
    BMW 1-Series Coupe
- - 2008
    BMW will introduce a modern and authentic performance coupe that draws inspiration from its iconic 2002 models of some 40 years ago. The next BMW legend,...
    BMW 1-Series Coupe
  - 2008
    The powerful BMW 135i Coupe features BMW's twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder engine that produces 300 horsepower and an incredible 300 lb-ft...
    BMW 135i Coupe
  - 2011
    With anticipation of enthusiasts around the world at fever pitch, BMW M GmbH unveiled the newest member of its intimate product family. For the first time,...
    BMW 1-Series M Coupe
  3 ⇵
- - 2006
    The new car was thrilling to behold from the very first moment - and now this thrilling encounter is confirmed in full by the actual driving experience:
    BMW Z4 Coupe
  - 2006
    The BMW Z4 M Coupe encloses its two seats and a larger cargo area in a graceful fastback body that retains the unique BMW Z4 esthetic character and the...
    BMW Z4 M Coupe
  2 ⇵
- - 2023
    BMW 8-Series Coupe comes over as a low-slung vehicle with an elongated silhouette and a roof line that flows elegantly into the powerful rear. A widely flared...
    BMW 8-Series Coupe
  - 2023
    The interior of the new BMW M8 models is a blend of unmistakable M-style cockpit design and modern luxury. The standard BMW Head-Up Display features M-specific...
    BMW M8 Competition Coupe
  2 ⇵
- - 2019
    The roof of the new BMW 8-Series Coupe takes a leaf from the book of traditional sports car design by featuring a central cutout that recalls the...
    BMW 8-Series Coupe
  - 2020
    BMW M8 Competition Coupe sprints from 0 to 100 kmh (62 mph) in 3.2 seconds and from 0 to 200 kmh (124 mph) in 10.6 seconds. The figures for the new BMW M8...
    BMW M8 Competition Coupe
  2 ⇵
- - 1989
    The BMW 8 Series stands out as a landmark model in a BMW Coupe lineage that dates back to the 1930s. A clean-sheet design, the car tagged "E31"
    BMW 8 Series
- - 1979
    Right from the start the BMW M1 was the fastest road-going sports car built in Germany, as timed by a leading car journal: In a test conducted in 1979...
    BMW M1
SHOW MORE

- 2004
  The E46 was considered the performance benchmark of its class and experienced success in many markets. The record selling year for the E46 chassis was...
  BMW 330Cd Coupe
- 2003
  In 2003 BMW introduced the series version of the Concept Car which had already hit the headlines at the 2001 Frankfurt Motor Show - the BMW M3 CSL, an...
  BMW M3 CSL
- 2004
  The BMW E90 replaced the E46 sedans in late 2004, however the BMW E46 coupe and convertible body styles remained in production until 2007.
  BMW 330Ci Coupe
- 2005
  Entering the year 2005, BMW introduced a very special feature for the M3: the Competition Package. At a price of Euro 5,300, the really discerning costumer...
  BMW M3 Competition

- - 2011
    BMW has announced substantial enhancements to the 2011 BMW 3-Series Coupe and Convertible , including outstanding style updates for 328i and 335i models...
    BMW 3-Series Coupe
  - 2011
    With the BMW M3 GTS, BMW M GmbH now offers a truly outstanding performer based on the BMW M3 Coupé also ideal for Clubsport events - exactly the...
    BMW M3 GTS
  - 2010
    As of spring 2010, the high-performance model BMW M3 consistently combines its outstanding driving performance figures with further reduced fuel...
    BMW M3
  3 ⇵
- - 2007
    Introducing the latest expression of individual style - the all-new BMW 3 Series Coupe. With totally new looks, the newest BMW Coupe once again sets the...
    BMW 335i Coupe
  - 2008
    Entering each new season in motorsport, we feel new and fresh ambition, query formally proven recipes for success, and focus on new records and outstanding...
    BMW M3 Coupe
  2 ⇵
- - 2004
    In 1995, the general exterior design of the E46 by Erik Goplen was approved and as a result DesignworksUSA was contracted by BMW to work alongside BMW...
    BMW 325Ci Coupe
  - 2004
    The E46 was considered the performance benchmark of its class and experienced success in many markets. The record selling year for the E46 chassis was...
    BMW 330Cd Coupe
  - 2003
    In 2003 BMW introduced the series version of the Concept Car which had already hit the headlines at the 2001 Frankfurt Motor Show - the BMW M3 CSL, an...
    BMW M3 CSL
  3 ⇵
- - 1999
    Moreover, fourth-generation trendsetters include the BMW 3-Series Coupe and the 3-Series Convertible, which are now available with a diesel engine...
    BMW 328Ci Coupe
  - 2001
    The third generation of the BMW M3, this time based on the E46 model series coupé, made its debut in the year 2000. And once again, the third...
    BMW M3
  2 ⇵
- - 1996
    Sales figures for 3 Series coupes, sedans, and convertibles were at all time highs in North America and Europe. Against other competititors, the E36 would...
    BMW 3 Series Coupe
  - 1992
    The BMW M3 was exactly 31 millimetres lower than a BMW 3 Series Coupe. The values for lateral acceleration also demonstrated how well all the chassis components...
    BMW M3 Coupe
  2 ⇵

- 2003
  The 3 Series Compact was redesigned in 2000 as part of the E46 line. Build and quality of finish was much-improved over that of the E36 TI. Despite this,...
  BMW 3-Series Compact
- 2004
  An emphasis was put on reducing unsprung weight and increasing structural rigidity rather than increasing power output: the highest displacement model...
  BMW 320Cd Convertible
- 2002
  The BMW E46 is a compact executive car which was produced by BMW from 1998 to 2007. It was introduced in May 1998 in the sedan body style. In 1999, a...
  BMW 3-Series Touring
- 2002
  The E46 automobile platform is the fourth generation of BMW's highly successful 3 Series entry-level luxury car / compact executive car. It was introduced...
  BMW 3-Series

Coupes
- - 2005
    Performance is electronically limited to 135mph in the CLK350 and CLK500 models, and to 155mph in the CLK55 model. The electronic limitation is felt as...
    Mercedes-Benz CLK350
  - 2008
    The Mercedes-Benz CLK63 AMG Black Series is making its global debut at the New York International Auto Show, open to the public April 6-15, 2007 at the...
    Mercedes-Benz CLK63 AMG Black Series
  - 2006
    In the CLK 63 AMG Coupé and Cabriolet models too, which are likewise making their world debut in Geneva, the AMG 6.3-litre V8 engine creates an...
    Mercedes-Benz CLK 63 AMG
  3 ⇵
- - 2004
    A special version of the CLK is the CLK DTM AMG sports car, which looks similar to the full race car for the German Deutsche Tourenwagen Masters racing...
    Mercedes-Benz CLK DTM AMG
- - 1998
    The Mercedes-Benz CLK-Class is a series of mid-size luxury coupés and convertibles produced by German car manufacturer Mercedes-Benz in two...
    Mercedes-Benz CLK Coupe
  - 1999
    Mercedes-Benz CLK GTR was powered by a 6.8 liter V12 engine developing 720 bhp and 572 lb/ft of torque. It had a price tag of $1,573,000 and only 25 were...
    Mercedes-Benz CLK GTR
  2 ⇵
- - 2020
    The exterior design is based on the S line and features additional, eye-catching black elements such as a roof dome in brilliant black with the A5 Coupe.
    Audi A5 Coupe
  - 2020
    An eight-speed tiptronic and permanent quattro all-wheel drive transfer the power in the S5 Sportback and S5 Coupe. A taut S sport suspension is standard...
    Audi S5 Coupe TDI
  - 2020
    Without the driver, the Audi RS5 Coupe weighs just 1,707 kg (3,763.3 lb); the Audi RS5 Sportback weighs 1,742 kg (3,840.5 lb). In particular, this is because of...
    Audi RS5 Coupe
  3 ⇵
- - 2017
    The new Audi A5 Coupe sports a fresh, modern and honed look. It is nevertheless true to its DNA with the sporty and elegant character being passed down...
    Audi A5 Coupe
  - 2017
    The new Audi S5 Coupe combines dramatic design with the performance of a sports car. Its newly developed, turbocharged V6 engine produces 260 kW (354 hp)...
    Audi S5 Coupe
  - 2019
    Audi S5 Coupe TDI and S5 Sportback TDI make driving even more relaxed and comfortable with a wide range of driver assistance systems. Some of the solutions are...
    Audi S5 Coupe TDI
  - 2018
    The new Audi RS5 Coupe demonstrates its sporty character as a gran turismo at first glance. The designers drew inspiration for the car from the...
    Audi RS5 Coupe
  4 ⇵
- - 2012
    In the Audi A5 Coupe, the high-end four-cylinder unit consumes on average just 5.7 liters of fuel per 100 km (41.27 US mpg). This best-in-class value...
    Audi A5 Coupe
  - 2012
    Advanced technologies are being added to the Sportback, Coupe, Cabriolet and Audi S5 models in the areas of the engine, quattro drive and infotainment for...
    Audi S5
  - 2012
    The Audi RS5 Coupé has gained some new design accents for an even sharper shape. The elegant two-door model impresses with commanding performance.
    Audi RS5
  3 ⇵
- - 2008
    Audi A5 successfully unites the acclaimed Audi design language and thrilling dynamic driving performance, and combines generous refinement with the brand's...
    Audi A5
  - 2008
    The Audi S5 is a unique competitor among high-performance coupés, thanks to its combination of V8 FSI technology and quattro permanent four-wheel...
    Audi S5
  - 2011
    Unbridled power lurking in a classically elegant coupé: the Audi RS5 will debut at the 2010 Geneva Auto Show. The high-revving 4.2-liter V8 with its...
    Audi RS5
  3 ⇵
- - 2005
    Sportiness and elegance packaged in a unique, exclusive style. Harmony of shape and volume that add up to a good-looking, powerful and solid car...
    Alfa Romeo Brera
- - 2003
    Guts and character are the attributes of the powerful 220 bhp (162 kW) 3.0 V6 24V power unit fitted to the Alfa Romeo GTV on view. This engine, combined...
    Alfa Romeo GTV
- - 2003
    The Alfa Romeo GT, a new sports coupé derived from the Alfa Romeo 156 and indisputable star of the recent Geneva and Frankfurt Motor Shows, is due...
    Alfa Romeo GT
- - 2011
    The 2011 Infiniti IPL G Coupe builds on the foundation of the second-generation Infiniti G Coupe rear-wheel drive model with extensive modification...
    Infiniti IPL G Coupe
- - 2008
    The all-new 2008 Infiniti G37 Coupe, which made its world debut at the 2007 New York International Auto Show, combines the exhilarating performance,...
    Infiniti G37 Coupe
- - 2006
    The 2006 models received minor updates. On the exterior there were new headlights, taillights, spoiler, and front bumper. Bluetooth capability was added...
    Infiniti G35 Sport Coupe
- - 2003
    For the 2003-04 model years, the V6 produced 260 horsepower and 260 ft-lbf of torque in the sedan, 280 horsepower and 270 ft-lbf in the coupe.
    Infiniti G35 Sport Coupe
- - 2001
    Volvo C70 Coupe and Convertible embody a strikingly unique synthesis of power, grace and aesthetic proportions. Even at rest, their aggressive lines impact...
    Volvo C70 Coupe
- - 2003
    Torrance, Calif. 01/04/2002. For the 2003 model year, Acura's goals for the 3.2 CL were to: Increase performance Update styling for a sleeker, more...
    Acura 3.2 CL Type-S
- - 2001
    Torrance, Calif. 02/23/2000. On the heels of the successful launch of the 3.2 TL luxury performance sedan, Acura has introduced an all-new, completely...
    Acura 3.2 CL Type-S
SHOW MORE