BMW 3 Series 1998–2005 car dimensions: 4471 mm long, 1739 mm wide and 1415 mm high. Unladen weight is 1,470 kg. Braked towing is 1,600 kg.
Standard air conditioning keeps the cabin comfortable on daily drives. Automatic climate control is available as an option for more precise temperature management. Cruise control is optional and often paired with a multifunction steering wheel. Rear parking sensors are also optional to aid tight manoeuvres. No factory touchscreen, reversing camera or advanced aids like emergency braking, blind-spot warning or lane keep are listed.
Boot space measures 440 litres with the rear seats in place. A through-loading system with split-folding rear seats is available as an option for longer items.
Braked towing capacity is 1600 kg and unbraked is 720 kg. Payload sits at 500 kg. Sport package options include firmer suspension for better load handling, though no dedicated heavy-duty cooling is noted for work use.
The cabin offers a driver-focused layout with well-shaped supportive seats. Electric multi-way front seats with memory and lumbar support are available on some grades. Heated front seats are optional. An electric glass sliding sunroof is available. Automatic climate control is available. The interior uses quality materials and provides a firm yet comfortable ride feel with good ergonomics for daily use.
Combined fuel use 8.9 l/100 km NEDC.
Service interval indicator for oil and inspections.
Euro NCAP four-star adult occupant rating.
Standard ABS, DSC, front and side airbags, traction control.
The 2.2-litre petrol six returns 8.9 litres per 100 km combined on the NEDC cycle. Urban use is higher at 12.2 litres per 100 km while extra-urban drops to 6.9 litres.
Servicing follows the onboard interval display. Oil services and alternating Inspection I and II checks are scheduled by the system based on use. Service costs are noted as low.
The car scored four stars in Euro NCAP testing. Standard safety includes driver and passenger airbags, front side and head airbags, ABS with brake assist and cornering control, plus DSC stability and traction systems.
Keep the cooling system maintained as plastic parts age. The body has strong rust resistance. Regular checks on suspension bushes help long-term reliability.
Length 4471 mm, Width 1739 mm, Height 1415 mm, Wheelbase 2725 mm (3 Series 1998–2005)
Sources: manufacturer data, BMW Belgium, Données techniques officielles, E46 Berline, updated 11 September 2003, Airbags from the BMW E46 owner's manual, Ground clearance is not given in these documents.