The M3 concealed much of its performance capability by avoiding superfluous body add-ons (ass a rear-wing would be), there were nonetheless, many distinctive M touches that were setting it apart from the standard E46 3 Series coupe. In addition to the 18-inch M-style wheels that were poised below larger wheel arches, there were the trademark four polished stainless-steel exhausts, vent gills in the front fenders and a power dome on the aluminium hood. Also M exclusives were the special front bumper covering incorporating a deep spoiler with large air intakes and the rear bumper covering incorporating an integrated air diffuser are. Finally, electrically-folding M exterior mirrors, exclusive rocker panel mouldings and clear turn signal and side marker lenses were helping distinguish the M3 from standard 325Ci and 330Ci counterparts.
The distinctive front spoiler ensemble featured three openings: Center, with screen, for the engine oil cooler; sides, for the fog lights. These outer openings were in fact air intakes for brake cooling.
The M3’s aluminium hood differed sharply from the 3 Series’ steel hood (and contributed to the excellent weight distribution). It featured a "power dome" and contours that swept up from the grilles’ flanks to the A-pillars. As on the regular models, Xenon low-beam headlights were optional. Clear turn signal lenses were used in front and at the rear as another distinction from the 3 Series coupe.
The wheel openings were flared out fully 0.8 in more on each side, accenting the 18-in. wheels and tires and keeping them inboard of the sheet metal. Overall, the body was 0.9 in. wider than the 330 Ci’s.
Other specific side elements were the side "grills" that recalled the E9 (2.5CS – 3.0 CSi) coupes of the 1960-70s. The rear bumper/apron was also all-new. A lateral ridge stretched all the way across, and openings for the four exhaust outlets lined up with the trunk lid sides. A discreet spoiler topped the lid’s top edge, but could be deleted at no extra cost if customers desire.
One thing that came on early M3s is missing: a rear wing. There’s just a teens y little spoiler on the rear deck
The body colours available were: Alpine Weiss II, Alpine Weiss III, Immolator II, Laguna Seca, Schwarz II, Carbon Schwarz Metallic, Inter logos blue Metallic, Mystic blue Metallic, Phoenix Gelb Metallic, Silver-grey Metallic and Titan Silber Metallic.
Vehicle Dimensions
weight 3461 lbs
wheelbase 107.5 in
front track 59.4 in
rear track 60.0 in
length 176.9 in
width 70.1 in
height 54.0 in
