This BMW M3 E46 Packs a 600 HP Turbocharged Surprise | Carscoops

      This eye-catching BMW has approximately 107,000 miles on the odometer, and we have no doubt that driving it is a blast.

      17 hours ago

      by Brad Anderson

      This E46 M3 may appear stock, but it conceals a turbocharged setup that generates up to 600 horsepower.

      A standard E46 M3 provides 333 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque from its 3.2-liter inline-six engine.

      Except for the engine, most components of this Laguna Seca Blue M3 remain original.

      The E46 BMW M3 is justifiably celebrated as one of the greatest generations of M cars ever produced. The rising demand and interest in these vehicles can be seen in their increasing value in the used car market. Among the many remarkable E46s available, this Laguna Seca Blue model stands out as particularly fascinating. Unlike most E46 M3s, this one is turbocharged.

      It’s true that some enthusiasts and purists may vehemently argue that adding forced induction to the legendary 3.2-liter S54 inline-six ruins the car. They have a valid point, as this engine is exceptional in its original state and thrives on being revved. Adding a turbocharger significantly alters the character of the inline-six. However, if you seek power, forced induction is often the way to go.

      As standard, the E46’s 3.2-liter engine produces 333 hp and 262 lb-ft (355 Nm) of torque. Thanks to the Maximum PSI Stage 1 turbocharger kit, this M3 now generates approximately 450 hp on 91-octane fuel and around 600 hp on 100-octane. Like the original model, the power is delivered to the rear wheels through a six-speed manual transmission.

      What impresses us about this modified M3 is that it doesn’t loudly announce its changes. In fact, its exterior remains largely stock, except for the installed lowering springs. It retains the original 19-inch wheels finished in silver, fitted with 265/30 Hankook Ventus V12 Evo2 tires.

      The interior is also well-maintained. It features heated and power-adjustable front seats covered in Gray Nappa leather, along with numerous comfort amenities, including cruise control, a Harman Kardon sound system, and automatic climate control.

      The listing does not specify when the turbocharging was done, but it notes that the M3 has about 107,000 miles (~172,000 km) on it. It also mentions the addition of a Dinan short shifter and an aftermarket cat-back exhaust. If you’re interested in owning this distinctive BMW, head over to Bring a Trailer to place a bid before it’s gone.