THE BMW M3 E46.

From a side profile, the E46 M3‘s chrome-plated gills in the upper part of the front fender are a standout feature. These were originally designed as an air duct for cooling the engine. During testing, however, it turned out that the ducts were not necessary. Nevertheless, they remained – and became such an iconic highlight that their appeal extended beyond just fans of BMW M. Not to be missed are the special side mirrors, which are aerodynamically-shaped to cut through the air. The so-called powerdome, the clearly recognizable curvature of the bonnet, created space for the engine’s powerful intake system. The design of the hood left no doubt that there was a real powerhouse hidden under it.

This emotional and racing-inspired combination helped the M3 to 343 hp peak power (252 kW) and 365 Nm torque – and at the same time to eight wins at the prestigious ‘Engine of the Year’ awards. A cornerstone of this successful concept: for optimum smoothness with maximum performance in various engine speed ranges, the engineers opted for a double-VANOS system.

The striking front apron ensures that water and oil always remain in the right temperature window and that full engine power is available at all times. In addition, it enables the cooling of the car’s powerful brake system. With its generous openings, the apron also gives the M3 E46 an unmistakably bold visual character.

The outstanding power-to-weight ratio of the BMW M3 CSL was made possible by the consistent use of lightweight materials. Composite materials found in motorsport were used in the rear diffuser, front apron, intake and some parts of the interior. In addition, the bonnet was made of aluminum and the rear window of special thin glass. Optional semi-slick sports tyres underscored the racing appeal of the model at its market launch in 2003. However, the highlight can be found above the heads of its occupants: the M3 CSL was the first M model with a visible carbon fibre roof – a feature that has since become an integral part of the BMW M repertoire.

The third generation BMW M3 achieved motorsport fame primarily through the legendary BMW M3 GTR Race. From the beginning, mighty fender extensions and a huge rear wing were the unmistakably distinguishing marks of this uncompromising vehicle. The thoroughbred racing car first caused a sensation in the American Le Mans Series (ALMS) 2001, securing BMW Motorsport titles in the driver, constructor and team championships. Later, it was able to prove itself at legendary events such as the traditional 24-hour races of the Nürburgring and Spa-Francochamps – and picked up where it left off at the end of 2001. Two double victories in 2004 and 2005 at the Nürburgring Classic were proof of this.

For the 2001 season, the regulations for the GT class of the American Le Mans Series required manufacturers to have a freely available and fully road-legal counterpart. BMW M followed suit and produced a small series of ten BMW M3 GTR Street cars. This version was almost as ferocious as its track-going sibling. The 4.0-litre V8 with a 90-degree cylinder bank angle largely matched the P60B40 engine of the racing version, which had a power output of well over 450 hp. In spite of the strict framework conditions for noise and exhaust emissions, the V8 still delivered more than 350 hp in the street-legal version. In fact, even the smallest detail showed that the extremely limited edition M3 GTR remained as close as possible to the racing car’s dynamics. That included the removal of comfort equipment, while the roof, front and rear aprons as well as the mighty rear wing were made of carbon fibre reinforced plastic, just as in the circuit model. Only then was the impressive curb weight of just 1,350 kg possible.