Following the path it set with the introduction of the E36, the E46 3 Series came to market one model at a time, starting with the 1999 323i and 328i four-door sedans. The most obvious changes to the new 3 Series come by way of its reshaped body and include a new front end, wider wheel arches, and a more rounded roofline. The headlights now feature "cut outs" below the lenses, which emphasize the traditional BMW quad headlight design.
   As the E36 had grown in size in comparison to the E30, so grew the E46. The wheelbase increased only an inch to 107.3, while overall length was up about an inch and a half to 176 inches. That's larger than the E36, but still comfortably compact and smaller than the current Honda Accord.
   For 2000, the E46 line expanded with the introduction of the 323Ci and 328Ci coupe models and later, the convertible (in 323Ci form only). For the first time, a wagon (only as a 323i) joined the line.
   So, to no one's surprise, the E46 continued to be just as wonderful as all its 3 Series ancestors. But the E46 M3 was something else altogether.
   With flared wheel arches, side gills and four chrome exhaust tips burbling under a unique rear skirt, the M3 was muscular, refined and just a bit menacing — a frat boy who's both the smartest kid in school and the greatest steroid abuser.