2003 BMW 325ti Compact E92
2003 BMW 325ti Compact E92
By Team Dailyrevs May 31, 2025
In 2000, the 3 Series Compact was redesigned using the then-new E46 platform. This updated Compact has the model code E46/5.
As per the rest of the E46 range, the wheelbase was increased by 25 mm (1.0 in). The overall length is also increased by 52 mm (2.0 in).
The exterior styling has several differences to the rest of the E46 3 Series range, notably the distinctive headlights and tail-lights. Mechanically, the Compact shares many elements with the rest of the E46 range, however the steering rack has a faster ratio.[15]
The E46/5 was not sold in North America as its predecessor didn’t prove to be a sales success in that market.
Suspension
The rear suspension uses a multi-link design, compared with the semi-trailing arm design used by its predecessor.[16]
Transmissions
Transmission options are mostly the same as the equivalent E46 coupe/sedan model.
From early 2003, the 325ti was available with a 6-speed SMG-II automated manual transmission.
Petrol engines
| MODEL | YEARS | ENGINE | POWER | TORQUE |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 316ti | 2002–2004 | N40B16* | 85 kW (114 hp) at 6,100 rpm | 150 N⋅m (111 lbf⋅ft) at 4,300 rpm |
| 2004 | N45B16† | 85 kW (114 hp) at 6,000 rpm | ||
| 2001–2004 | N42B18 | 85 kW (114 hp) at 5,600 rpm | 175 N⋅m (129 lbf⋅ft) at 3,750 rpm | |
| 2004 | N46B18 | |||
| 318ti | 2001–2004 | N42B20 | 105 kW (141 hp) at 6,000 rpm | 200 N⋅m (148 lbf⋅ft) at 3,750 rpm |
| 2004 | N46B20 | |||
| 325ti | 2001–2004 | M54B25 | 141 kW (189 hp) at 6,000 rpm | 245 N⋅m (181 lbf⋅ft) at 3,500 rpm |
* Used instead of the N42 engine in countries where vehicles tax charges favour smaller engines.
† Used instead of the N46 engine in countries where vehicles tax charges favour smaller engines.
Diesel engines
| MODEL | YEARS | ENGINE | POWER | TORQUE |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 318td | 2003–2004 | M47D20 | 85 kW (114 hp) at 4,000 rpm | 280 N⋅m (207 lbf⋅ft) at 1,750 rpm |
| 320td | 2001–2004 | M47D20 | 110 kW (150 hp) at 4,000 rpm | 330 N⋅m (243 lbf⋅ft) at 2,000 rpm |