The E46 has a great mix of style and performance, making it highly sought after by car enthusiasts decades after ending production. While more powerful M3 models have gone on sale since the early 2000s, the E46 remains one of the top-ranked M3 models of all time. BMW introduced the fourth generation of the 3 Series, the E46, for the 1999 model year. The E46 was offered in a variety of body styles including coupe, convertible, sedan, and wagon. The BMW E46 3 Series (1997-2006) became an instant classic. Explore the history, models, performance, buying guide, and future collectability of BMW's iconic sports sedan. The BMW 3 Series (E46) is the fourth generation of the BMW 3 Series range of compact executive cars manufactured by German automaker BMW. Produced from 1997 to 2006, it was the successor to the E36 3 Series, which ceased production in 2000. E46 is a billable/specific ICD-10-CM code that can be used to indicate a diagnosis for reimbursement purposes. The 2026 edition of ICD-10-CM E46 became effective on October 1, 2025. Discover top BMW E46 modifications for performance, handling, and style. From turbo upgrades to suspension mods, explore proven upgrades that transform your E46 into a personalized masterpiece while honoring BMW's engineering excellence. E46 Fanatics Forum Verdict: Buy an E46 in 2025? Oh yes, absolutely. The E46 3 Series is still one of the best ways to get into the brand and one of the best bang-for-buck cars on the road today. Discover the legendary BMW E46 3 Series—its history, performance, and why it remains one of the most beloved BMWs ever made. Future Classic Car, the E46 BMW (fourth generation of the BMW 3 Series) Distinctively classic designed car that is truly the ultimate driving machine. I have owned 6 different 2001 to 2006 BMW 330 CI cars over the past 25 .