autoevolution
 

BMW E46 M3 vs E86 Z4 M Coupe in Z-Performance Showdown

Here we have a perfect example of how a modular engine can work in two amazing cars: the E46 M3 and the E86 Z4 M Coupe. Both of these cars used the legendary 3.2-liter 6-cylinder inline S54 engine and both were amazing.
BMW E46 M3 and E86 Z4 M on Z-Performance Wheels 1 photo
Photo: Screenshot from Youtube
The E46 is still regarded as one of the best M3 models ever built, even though the power output it has was way below what we're used to these days. With 333 HP and 355 Nm (262 lb-ft) it was a fast car.

The same engine on the Z4 M Coupe developed 330 HP and the same amount of torque. The differences were minimal but the most important thing to emphasize on is that the E86 model was in production until 2008, whilst the M3 went out of production in 2006.

Therefore, if you want the best revision of the S54 engine, you should get a 2008 Z4 M Coupe, like the one in the video below. This one though, has a secret weapon: Z-Performance 6 Wheels in Matte Black.

The E46 M3 on the other hand is using Z-Performance 4 Wheels with Black Chrome centers and polished faces that go better with the Sapphire Black paint job on the Coupe. Either way, we love both of them for the looks and what they mean in the brand's history.

If you liked the article, please follow us:  Google News icon Google News Youtube Instagram X (Twitter)
 

Would you like AUTOEVOLUTION to send you notifications?

You will only receive our top stories