BMW 3ltr engines

[Alan W]

As previously posted I am in the process of selling my Z3 back to the previous owner.

Now looking at getting a slightly more practical 2002/2004-ish 3 series coupe.

Ideally I want a 2.8 or 3.0L with auto box

Are there any issues I should be aware of with these cars, specifically with these engine / gearbox configurations? I take it that they are the same engines as in the Z3 2.8/3.0?

Looks like there are loads of potential dogs for sale so may take a while to find the right one

 

[5harp3y]

i didn't think you could get an e46 328i after 2000?

so will either be 325i or 330i in that age range

both of which in the e46 chassis will be a M54 engine derivative not the M52 derivatives found in the Z3

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/BMW_M54

engines and auto boxes are pretty strong (i'd be going for a 330 as they are soooo cheap at the moment)

 

[abh29]

As previously posted I am in the process of selling my Z3 back to the previous owner.

Now looking at getting a slightly more practical 2002/2004-ish 3 series coupe.

Ideally I want a 2.8 or 3.0L with auto box

Are there any issues I should be aware of with these cars, specifically with these engine / gearbox configurations? I take it that they are the same engines as in the Z3 2.8/3.0?

Looks like there are loads of potential dogs for sale so may take a while to find the right one

I ran a 53 plated 330d for about 140,000 miles (2 years use) the only part it ever needed outside of service items being 1 belt,never had such a reliable car. I retired 10 years ago so now only do about 20,000 year

 

[Cooper]

From my understanding these engines [M54] are superb. I have a 3.0i with an auto and love every minute of it [had the 2.2i before that]. Putting that aside they do have a twin VANOS so be sure it is not making any noise. This allows the engine to pull hard through a better rev range as apposed to the 2.8. If you can find a auto box that has had the trans oil and filter replaced regularly go for that one. Have fun