Model History

First introduced in October 2000 the E46 M3 featured an all-new 3.2-litre M-tuned engine, the S54. The engine had the highest specific naturally aspirated output ever made by BMW at the time producing 338bhp. Praised by press, the S54 engine redlines at a high 8000rpm and breaths its oxygen through six independent throttle bodies electronically operated resulting in immediate responsive from the high revving power unit.

Available as a coupe or convertible the E46 was offered with a six-speed manual Getrag gearbox or an optional SMG Drivelogic gearbox, which was a standard six-speed gearbox with an electro-hydraulically actuated clutch pedal.

Equipment

Topaz Blue Metallic paintwork, Grey Nappa leather, Electric folding soft-top in black, 18-inch M Double Spoke alloy wheels, 6-speed SMG transmission, Heated electric front sports seats, DVD Satellite navigation, Park Distance Control (PDC), BMW CD player, CD changer, Front central armrest, Automatic air conditioning, Self-dimming rear-view mirror, Multifunction M Sports steering wheel, Cruise control, Automatic Xenon lights, Rain-sensitive wipers, Headlight cleaning system, Dynamic Stability Control (DSC), Alarm system, White front indicator lights, Front fog lights, Tinted glass, Warning triangle, BMW toolkit, BMW carpet mats, Spare remote key, Valet key.

Exterior

Topaz Blue over grey, an understated yet attractive colour combo well suited to the E46 M3. This very smart low mileage example has just returned from having its rear floor professionally reinforced and has subsequently been treated to a full machine polish by our in-house detailer. The paintwork presents to an excellent standard with a deep metallic lustre and uniform colour all round. On closer inspection there are no signs of previous poor repair, the only real negatives to report being a dusting of stone chips across the front bumper, bonnet and headlights that otherwise remain perfectly clear. Looking along both sides the car is very straight indeed, and the wheel arches are free from any bubbling issues (a common E46 weak point). The electric hood operates perfectly and also looks to be in first-rate condition with no marks or discolouration to the fabric.

VIEWINGS WELCOME BY APPOINTMENT ONLY /// ADDITIONAL PHOTOS AVAILABLE UPON REQUEST

Interior

The pale interior is a really nice contrast against the Topaz Blue paint and remains feeling bright and airy even with the roof up. Still very soft to the touch, the Nappa leather shows little wear across the seats with only the driver’s upper bolster hinting at the car’s 48k miles. The dash, door cards and steering wheel are also in excellent original condition with an even shine-free texture retained throughout. Commonly scratch-prone areas such as the driver’s door pull and delicate centre console trims are also in good order with only a few small marks to note. In the footwells the light grey carpets are well protected by original BMW overmats in black, again all in great shape.

ENGINE & TRANSMISSION

The S54 is an iconic six-cylinder powerplant revving to 8,000rpm with an intoxicating rasp at higher revs. In this car it’s paired with BMW’s Sequential Manual Gearbox (SMG) that ensures an ultra-fast shift through all six gears, providing a direct and consistent flow of power at all engine speeds. The mechanical condition of this E46 is excellent; the last service was an Inspection II carried out by our trusted classic car workshop in February 2023 at 48,541 miles. Prior to this all services were completed at BMW.

WHEELS, TYRES & BRAKES

The M3 sits on 18-inch M Double-Spoke alloys all in great condition with only a one or two very small marks to report on very close inspection, most notably to the nearside rear wheel. They are shod in new Pirelli PZero tyres all round. The brakes have also been checked and operate perfectly having been treated to new discs and pads all round at the current mileage.

History File

First registered in November 2001 this ‘pre-facelift’ E46 M3 has now driven only 48k miles in the hands of 5 registered keepers (the current since 2019). Reading through the accompanying paperwork its clear the car has always been well maintained with all services carried out by BMW up until the most recent Inspection II just a few months ago at 48,541 miles. Other notable recent works include all new Pirelli PZero tyres, all new brake discs and pads, replacement of the diff input shaft seal, and reinforcement of the boot floor by MStyle in Romford. Services have been carried out at the following mileages: 1,198 – 2,990 miles – 12,860 – 27,800 – 32,018 – 37,288 – 40,555 – 43,240 – 46,922 – and lastly at 48,541 miles in February 2023.

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