The E46 M3 is powered by the S54 straight-six engine and has a 0-100 km/h (62 mph) acceleration time of 5.1 seconds for the coupé, with either the manual or SMG-II transmission.

The E46 M3 is one of the best-driving BMWs of all time. ... Some people consider the E46-generation BMW M3 the greatest M car ever built. Its stylish, understated looks, combined with a world-class straight-six engine and expertly tuned chassis dynamics, make it a true joy to drive

BMW M3 (E46) 3.2 343 hp

The other reasons include the sound the car makes, the handling and the price. All of them are valid points as to why this is a best buy these days. Prices for mint E46 M3 models have been going up recently and this might actually turn out to be a good investment on the long run

The E46 M3 has had quite a checkered past with a few major issues plaguing the otherwise relatively spotless reliability of this oddly simple car. First and foremost, check the rear subframe for cracks or tears in the metal surrounding the mounts.It's not just the fact that's it's a blast to drive that makes it so expensive, it's also the fact that it was built in limited numbers. With only under 1,400 ever made, seeing one is a rare occurrence. The car we're showing you today then, should be pretty interesting.Legacy. Whilst it is very probable that this will one day be considered a classic, the E46 M3 is now between 15 and 20 years old. We like to call this the 'minefield phase' here at The Car Investor.With the E46-generation,