2001 BMW M3 Convertible (E46) Dimensions, Size & Specs

The curb weight of the BMW M3 Convertible (E46) is 1655 kg (3649 lbs), which reflects the weight of the vehicle with standard equipment and all necessary operating consumables, such as fuel, oil, and coolant. The maximum weight, also known as the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR), is 2100 kg (4629 lbs). This includes the weight of the car plus passengers, luggage, and any additional accessories or cargo. The weight characteristics ensure that the M3 Convertible maintains the performance dynamics expected from a high-performance sports car while also supporting practicality and safety.

Yes, the BMW M3 Convertible (E46) generally fits into a standard residential garage. Typical standard garage dimensions are around 2.4 to 2.7 meters in width (7.9 - 8.9 feet), 5.5 to 6 meters in length (18 - 20 feet), and 2 to 2.4 meters in height (6.5 - 7.9 feet). Given that the E46 M3 Convertible measures 4492 mm (4.49 meters or 14.7 feet) in length, 1780 mm (1.78 meters or 5.84 feet) in width, and 1363 mm (1.36 meters or 4.47 feet) in height, it fits comfortably within these dimensions. This makes it convenient for typical garage parking without the need for specialized space.

The BMW M3 Convertible (E46) offers a luggage capacity of 300 liters (10.6 cubic feet). This is quite reasonable for a high-performance convertible, as the convertible design typically reduces cargo space due to the folding roof mechanism. Compared to other sports convertibles of the early 2000s, the E46 M3 offers competitive storage space that accommodates everyday use as well as touring purposes. While not as spacious as sedans or SUVs, this luggage capacity balances performance and practicality, making it suitable for weekend trips or city driving.

The BMW M3 Convertible (E46) comes with front rims sized at 8J x 18 inches and rear rims at 9J x 18 inches. Corresponding tire sizes are 225/45 R18 for the front and 255/40 R18 for the rear. These wider rear tires provide increased traction and stability, especially during spirited driving or acceleration. The 18-inch wheels contribute to better handling, responsiveness, and road grip. Overall, this tire and rim setup enhances the vehicle’s sporty handling characteristics while ensuring a balanced and controlled ride.

While specific interior dimension measurements for the BMW M3 Convertible (E46) are not always detailed, the vehicle is designed to comfortably seat four occupants with two front bucket seats and a smaller rear bench suitable for two passengers. The convertible layout slightly reduces rear-seat headroom compared to the coupe variant due to the folding soft-top mechanism. However, the car offers a sporty and ergonomic interior experience with well-bolstered seats suitable for dynamic driving. Overall, it balances sporty aesthetics with functionality for four adults or two adults with additional rear passenger flexibility.

The BMW M3 Convertible (E46) improved both dimensionally and performance-wise compared to its predecessor, the E36 M3 Convertible. The E46 is slightly longer and wider, contributing to a more aggressive and planted stance. The E46 measures 4492 mm (176.7 inches) in length and 1780 mm (70.1 inches) in width, compared to the E36 which was roughly 4470 mm (176 inches) long and 1725 mm (67.9 inches) wide. Performance-wise, the E46 introduced the iconic S54 3.2-liter inline-six engine producing around 343 hp, a considerable upgrade over the E36’s M3 powerplants. The newer model also incorporated enhanced suspension and chassis rigidity, improving handling and ride quality significantly.

Compared to contemporaries such as the Porsche 911 Cabriolet (996) and the Audi RS4 Convertible (B5), the BMW M3 Convertible (E46) sits comfortably in the mid-size sporty convertible category. For instance, the Porsche 911 Cabriolet is slightly shorter and lower, while the Audi RS4 Convertible is slightly wider but similar in length. The E46’s dimensions strike a balance, offering a somewhat broader stance than some competitors, contributing to its excellent stability while maintaining manageable size for urban and spirited driving. Its weight, around 1655 kg (3649 lbs), is competitive for a convertible offering solid structural rigidity and performance.

The BMW M3 Convertible (E46) is renowned for blending high-performance with everyday usability. Its precision-engineered 3.2-liter inline-six engine provides exhilarating responsiveness and power. The convertible soft top is electrically operated, enabling quick roof retraction or closure, enhancing the open-air driving experience. The car features a well-balanced chassis with adaptive suspension and limited-slip differential, offering superior handling. Practical aspects include a 300-liter (10.6 cubic feet) trunk capacity, rear seats for occasional passengers, and reasonably good comfort levels inside. These features make the E46 M3 Convertible a desirable choice for enthusiasts seeking a versatile yet thrilling sports car.

The convertible roof mechanism in the BMW M3 Convertible (E46) slightly affects interior and cargo space compared to the coupe. When the roof is down, it occupies some trunk space, effectively reducing available luggage capacity from the coupe’s larger 350-liter (12.4 cubic feet) trunk to 300 liters (10.6 cubic feet) in the convertible. Furthermore, the roof reduces rear headroom because the soft-top folds into a compartment behind the rear seats. This alteration restricts rear passenger comfort somewhat, making the convertible less spacious for rear occupants than the coupe variant. However, the open-air driving experience is a key trade-off for this reduced space.