HIGHLIGHTS
- Late model E46 Cabrio
- Low mileage
- Full black leather
- Good service history
THE APPEAL
It’s hard to believe that a quarter of a century has passed since BMW’s ‘E46’ generation of 3-Series first appeared, such is the timelessness of the car’s styling.
But as the good examples become fewer and further between, the collector market for nice E46s is picking up. Great to look at, terrific to drive and impressively built, they’re one of the last truly wonderful compact BMWs and are actively sought after in good condition.
This one is one of the last E46s made – a 2006 318Ci convertible in desirable M-Sport specification, but with the most efficient and affordable petrol engine. It’s a lovely low mileage example, sub 68k, and spent most of its life with one long-term owner out of its previous three keepers.
THE HISTORY AND PAPERWORK
- Three previous owners
- Less than 68,000 miles
- Original BMW Book pack
- BMW leather wallet
- Service book stamped nine times up to 60,909 miles
- UK V5C
- MOT June 2023
- Recent invoice for over £1,900 on brake and service work
THE INTERIOR
- Full black leather sports seats
- Great condition
- M-Sport steering wheel
- Carbon-effect trim inserts
- M-Sport door kickplates
- No bolster wear
- Climate control
- Factory stereo
- Excellent carpets
- Some wear to driver’s side door pull area
- Clean and tidy luggage area
- Original and complete BMW tool kit, seemingly unused
THE EXTERIOR
- Carbon Black Metallic
- Very smart overall order
- Original 17-inch M-Sport alloys in good order with minor kerb marks
- Good paint finish
- Electric folding soft top in good working order
- Heated glass rear screen
- No visible corrosion on upper body
- One small dent on bonnet
THE MECHANICS
- 2.0-litre 4cyl BMW ‘N42’ engine
- 141bhp
- Five-speed automatic transmission
- Starts on the button
- Runs well
- Well-serviced car with low mileage
- No known or apparent mechanical issues
SUMMARY
Finding a smart, well-presented and clean E46 in good, unmodified condition is quite an ask these days, especially one that has a low mileage and a good service history.
The convertible model was an instant classic when new and is quite rightly highly cherished today. With this one being an M-Sport and with the black-on-black colour scheme that so smartly sets it off, it’s a modern classic with plenty of appeal.
Notice to bidders
This item is sold on an ‘As is Where is’ basis. The condition of this item is the opinion of the seller and may differ from your own opinion. Photos and listing descriptions are for guidance purposes only*.** Car & Classic do not warrant listing accuracy. Full inspection is recommended. Viewings are at the seller’s discretion. Buyer is responsible for delivery and collection of any item purchased.*
A non-refundable buyer’s deposit is payable on this item, refer to FAQs and T&Cs for the applicable percentage.
All bidding, buying and offers are subject to our Terms and Conditions.