The E46 M3 model from BMW was introduced in 2000 and featured two body styles: 2-door coupe or 2-door convertible.
The M3 Coupe benefited from BMW’s newly-developed 3.2L S54 engine - naturally aspired - delivering a massive 343 PS and 273 lb-ft of torque. This new-breed powerplants were mated with either an innovative SMG Drivelogic transmission, featuring steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters (rally-like), or a new 6-speed gearbox. Due to stricter CO2 emission rules, this model came with a 5-hp lower engine output on the North American market. The E46 M3 Coupe was discontinued in 2006, making room for the 4th generation BMW M3 a year later.