2002 e46 M3

2002 e46 m3
The E46 broadened its horizons when it came to 2002. There were two modifications that were to be seen in this year, one in the Spring and one in the Fall.

To learn more about the E46 M3, click here: E46 M3 Video Guide

One of the principal changes came at the beginning of 2002, in March, to be exact. The BMW engineers introduced a strut brace for the E46 model. Now, strut braces were not something that had not been seen before in the M series, as there was a strut brace which was added to the front shock tower of the E36 during the second-generation era. There is a significant difference which should be noted between the strut brace seen in the second generation and the one seen in the third: the fact that the E46 strut brace is adjustable.

When most people think of strut braces, they think of race cars. In a way, BMW went to some extent to dispel these rumours when they offered braces with the E46 M3. This was because it they were trying to push it to the cars which were more likely to be driven on the streets.

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There are benefits to be had to using a strut brace. These include a consistent amount of suspension which will not be compromised by any potholes or fluctuations that are seen on the driving surface. Over time, it can be found that there can be expensive damage to the car which could have been prevented should a strut brace have been used.

Looking for a 2002 model with a strut brace is likely to be an investment – the car is likely to be more expensive than others as some strut braces cost hundreds of dollars. However, the condition of the car mechanically and aesthetically is going to be better. What’s more, from a cosmetic perspective, strut braces can look pretty cool.

BMW became a fan of making additional features an option to the cars. The E46 M3 had many of these, most notably in North America. March 2002 also saw 19-inch forged alloy wheels as an option when purchased. It may be worth having a look out for those when on the used cars trail.

Transitioning into the Fall, there was more choice when it came to the interior of the BMW, with a new Aluminum interior trim becoming available. 2002 saw the choice of interior trims for buyers of the E46 M3 when it came to the interior of their car a lot more elevated, with the type of interior available increasing to four. Having a brushed effect, the new aluminum design would go on to be available right through to the product being discontinued.

The previous year had seen an in-dash CD player introduced into the standard E46 model. A DVD-based navigation system was soon to become standard in the car. The in-dash CD player which was seen in the previous model of the E46 last year became incorporated into this navigation system.

2002 was a significant year for the E46 M3 from BMW.