Purpose of the System

E46 M3 Running Gear and Suspension

Purpose of the System
A requirement in the development of the running gear for the E46 M3 was: "The running gear must be faster than the engine". The exceptional running gear and suspension of the E46/2 (standard 3 series) as well as the outstanding running gear of the M3 predecessor served as the basis for the E46 M3.

The combination of a very rigid 3 Series coupe body, lightweight aluminum axle components, 50/50 weight distribution and rear-wheel drive are ideal prerequisites for pure driving pleasure with the BMW E46 M3.

The development objectives of E46 M3 were to further improve the sports car handling characteristics as compared to the predecessor while retaining the outstanding driveability for everyday use.

In addition, by using the variable M-differential lock together with DSC III, it has been possible to avoid the restrictions in winter operation normally associated with sports cars.