BMW’s attempt to offer a Golf-fighting hatchback didn’t end with the E36 generation; at least, not in the rest of the world. That’s because after the E36/5 bowed out, the company introduced the E46/5 Compact model in 2000. As with the RoW prior model, several engine options were available with 4,6, and diesel powerplants; unlike the one-engine-only US E36 model, though, it never came to North America. Style was substantially more radical than the E36; notably, the front end had a completely unique set of headlights not shared with any other BMW design. Love it or hate it, it helped the /5 stand apart. The same was true out back, where there were jewel-style tail lights that almost looked more as though they belonged on a Lexus. BMW wasn’t done out back though, because the chopped rear end held a multi-link suspension rather than the E30 setup used on the E36 model. You could get some slick options on the E46/5 too, like the SMG sequential gearbox. Today’s example has an upgraded motor, the M Sport body kit, some great looking sport seats, and it’s in North America:
CLICK FOR DETAILS: 2002 BMW 316ti on eBay
Year: 2002
Model: 316ti
VIN: WBAAT51060FW28226
Engine: 3.0 liter inline-6
Transmission: 5-speed manual
Mileage: 240000 mi
Location: Ajax, Canada
Price: CAN 19,500 (~$16,182 Buy It Now)
For sale is an extremely rare BMW E46 Compact– never sold in North America.
This was my personal car in Germany, where it was converted to 5spd manual with a 330Ci (M53B30) engine making it an absolute blast to drive.
I have full documentation since the car was purchased new from the dealer. It took me a while to find this car with such desirable options as: sport package, no sunroof, automatic climate control, rare BMW aerodynamic package, automatic headlights, rain sensing wipers.
All the modifications and the engine/transmission conversion were completed by me (I’m a former BMW technician having worked for several years at a very well known BMW independent shop in the GTA).
The engine/transmission conversion have been certified and approved by TUV German Authorities and meets their stringent standards (documents available). Basically, everything was done as it would’ve originally come from the BMW factory.
The car is very quick and also incredibly balanced in corners and offers a unique driving experience.
The body has no rust, no damage, no accidents. The body is clean 9/10 other than minor wear (i.e. stone chips) expected of a used car.
Details on the car:Mileage; motor 109,000 KM; chassis 240,000Km
Engine: Euro M54B30 (231hp). Oil changes every 5,000km.
All the electronics are coded to be fully functional with the new motor including ABS/traction control.
Air conditioning is ice cold (new updated HVAC control unit)
Slick top without sunroof
Trunk mounted active subwoofer
High quality integrated Bluetooth module for phone calls & music into the factory radio unit
Delete the rear windshield wiper using original BMW partsThe following were changed when the motor was swapped:
Engine:
Vanos solenoids & seals
Oil-pan gasket
Oil filter housing gasket
Mechanical belt tensioner (no idler pulley)
Valve cover gasket
Aftermarket high flow headers
Full 325ti 65mm exhaust
Single O2 sensor conversion
ECU adjustments to keep the oil/coolant thermals low for reliability and performance. Timing and ignition are stock
Trunk battery relocationDrivetrain:
14lbs single mass flywheel with a high clamping clutch
325i 5spd manual transmission
BMW Performance short shifter kit with new shifter bushing
3.07 Differential (Medium Casing)
330i Complete rear axle
Brakes/Suspension:
330i front and rear brakes
Polyurethane control arm bushings
E46 Clubsport steering rack
E46 M3 struts
E46 M3 Tein S-Tech springs
OE 24MM front sway bar
OE 19MM rear sway barThe car is located and registered in Toronto/Canada.
Please contact me for more information
Originally a 316ti, this one underwent quite a few changes but has remained a relatively subtle package – as cars you never see in North America go. It is a relatively high-spec 316, with Park Distance Control, automatic climate control, and all the M Sport bits inside and out; adding the higher-output inline six was a great way to make the package shine, and the lowered stance and later-model wheels pull it together with some menacing looks. It’s surely not for everyone, but if you like being a bit different (in Canada only for the next 6 years, unless you want to go through an expensive federalization process) this one looks like a fun package.
-Carter
I’ve always liked the crazy headlights and taillights BMW did on these. Very different. A lot more fun than the E36 ti.