Over a long period of time, the BMW M3 Coupé (E46) defined the benchmark in its segment. A taut chassis and the variable M differential lock ensured that the maximum engine output of 343 hp could actually be transferred to the road. The inline six-cylinder sports engine (S54B32) received the accolade of "Engine of the Year Award" for a number of years in succession. The BMW M3 Coupé achieved an impressively high specific power output of 106 hp per litre of displacement. A total of 54,750 units manufactured makes this automobile one of the most successful cars ever produced by M GmbH.