Description
There are many contenders for the Best M Car crown, but few would dispute the E46 M3s place at the top table. For many true enthusiasts, the E46 incarnation of this legendary car represents both the pinnacle and the end of an era. After the E46, BMW would move from their classic straight six configuration, leaving behind both an impressive list of achievements, and an impressive set of sales figures. Famously, the 3. 2 litre S54 power plant set the world record for horsepower to displacement ratio – forcing 343 horses from 3200cc and thus exceeding the 10:1 marker. You may think that this type of thoroughbred performance would bring with it unreliability – but in fact the S54 has turned out to be one of the most robust performance engines ever made. Free revving, and giving immediate performance even at low revs (the E46 M3 will pull the car from under 20mph in 6th gear) – and of course pulling harder and harder right up to the red line in classic naturally aspirated M-style – the S54 is a sweet, addictive, and impressive motoring masterpiece.
But the secret to the E46 M3 is more than just an engine. A sublimely balanced car – achieving that holy grail of 50:50 weight distribution – with a wonderfully supple and communicative chassis, controlled by excellent hydraulic steering that seems to read your thoughts, a solid and crisp gear box with perfect ratios, all brilliantly presented to the driver in a light, classically appointed cockpit with an excellent seating position, comfortable and simple. Put all that together and you have the making of a true classic.
And if you’ve been looking for a decent E46 M3 for any period, you’ll know how rare this is; a one former keeper, immaculately maintained gem. Bought as part of a collection, the car has had care lavished upon it in the x years of ownership having been bought from a friend who was the first owner. Our technical team have huge experience with E46 M3s and have seen these cars over the years in large quantities, and rate this E46 M3 as one of the very best. It is obvious that the E46 is getting older – as we all are – and to see one as original and correct as this car is a real pleasure. This is one of the few we’ve seen in recent years with an original ‘boot floor’, with absolutely no trace of cracks or fault. The paintwork still has its deep shine, and has had ceramic coating protection. The interior is very good, with just the subtle upgrade to a modern custom-fit audio system to deviate from factory original.
The service book is chock-full of stamps, consisting in the first part of main dealer and in the second part indie. Of course there is the all-important running in service, and many inspections. Munich Legends will be carrying out a brake fluid change, coolant change and upto date service and MOT.
This is a really lovely car, the likes of which we see only once or twice a year!
For more information or to book a viewing – by appointment only please – contact our showroom team.
