Highlights

Advisory-free MOT until 19th January 2026
Only 33,500 miles from new
Beautifully preserved Channel Islands import: UK specification with VAT paid and age-related Y registration
Recently serviced with new brake discs, pads, and tyres
Impressive history file with all original books and documents

The Appeal

For many, the E46 is the king of the 3 Series BMWs. It sold enormously well at the time and set the benchmark for performance and handling for rear-wheel-drive compact saloons. The E46 remains a popular choice to this day and these high-quality, well-built cars could still make a competent daily driver if desired.

This 2001 325i SE has clearly been cherished throughout its life. The vendor notes that while it's not a 'Concours' example, it is exceptionally clean; even the wheel arches are all without the usual corrosion, for example. The BMW has spent the majority of its life on the Channel Islands so is a factory right-hand drive car in UK spec while benefitting from salt-free roads and low mileage.

Now imported to the UK mainland with all VAT paid and an advisory-free MOT until January 2026, this lovely modern classic 3 Series is ready to meet its next custodian.

The vendor notes:

"If you like slightly older simpler cars, this could be the one! It still has its factory cassette player with CD changer. No big screens on the dashboard. It does have rear parking sensors, an electric glass sunroof and ice cold air conditioning!"

The History and Paperwork

Originally supplied to the Channel Islands in RHD UK market spec
Registered in the mainland UK with an age-related Y registration
PLG tax so is far cheaper than others at £345 per year
MOT until 19th January 2026
33,500 miles
Comes with all original books, V5C, certificate of conformity, and import documents
Includes service book and sales brochure
Only one key remains

The Condition

Bodywork presents superbly with only minor imperfections
Exceedingly straight and solid looking with no corrosion apparent in the usual E46 trouble spots
Wheel arches are reportedly free from the usual corrosion
Attractive Orient Blue paintwork
OEM alloy wheels all presents superbly with minor marks visible only
Montana Beige leather interior presents impeccably with minimal wear in-line with the low mileage
Equipped with rear parking sensors, electric glass sunroof, and air conditioning
We understand the cabin electrics to be in good working order
Never had a tow bar fitted

The Mechanics

Mechanically original and unmodified
2.5-litre straight-six petrol
Automatic transmission
Recently fitted with new brake discs and pads
New tyres installed as the old ones were rather old
The vendor informs us that the BMW drives without any warning lights showing

BEFORE YOU BUY

This sale is subject to the Car & Classic Terms and Conditions. By bidding and/or making an offer, you also agree to the following:

✓ The seller is registered as a private seller which means consumer rights stemming from EU consumer protection law do not come into effect. However, you are still covered by Car & Classic’s own Terms and Conditions..

✓ We request that a non-refundable fee be paid if you are the lucky winning bidder at auction or if your offer is accepted Please refer to our helpful FAQs and T&Cs for specific rates.

✓ This vehicle is “Sold As Seen”, on an “As Is Where Is’ basis and without warranty. Photos and descriptions are solely for guidance purposes and it's customary to carry out a full inspection of the vehicle prior to purchase for your own peace of mind.

✓ VAT is included in the buyer's fee. VAT may or may not be included in the final bid or offer price, as specified in the listing.

✓ We want a smooth transaction just as much as you do and as such we run all UK-registered cars and motorbikes for sale on Car & Classic through an online HPI check to verify that they show no insurance database markers for damage or theft, and have no finance owing, allowing you to bid with confidence.

✓ We also check whether vehicles are recorded as being written off as part of an insurance total loss claim at the time an advert is placed on Car & Classic and we helpfully provide write-off category labels (Cat C/D/S/N) for your assistance. However, the presence or absence of a label does not guarantee the vehicle’s status and it is always worthwhile carrying out your own full vehicle history check before making an offer on a vehicle.

✓ Buyers are responsible for vehicle collection

or delivery. Importing vehicles may result in additional customs duties and import taxes so it’s worth checking beforehand..