Description
The third-generation M3, known as the E46, is often considered the pinnacle of the M3 series, thanks to its blend of timeless design and modern performance.
Introduced in October 2000, the E46 improved upon its E36 predecessor with a more powerful 3. 2-liter S54 engine that delivers 343 bhp at 7, 900rpm and 80% of its peak 269 ft/ lbs of torque from 2, 000rpm, providing a broad and deliciously exploitable power band. It features a rear-wheel drive system with a Variable M Differential and offers a choice between a six-speed manual or a second-generation SMG automated manual transmission.
Design-wise, the E46 includes subtly widened wheel arches, front wing mounted side vents, a power bulge on the aluminium bonnet and four compact exhausts, that combine to give it a distinctive yet understated look that still remains captivating nearly twenty five years later.
This example in the much sought after colour combination of Carbon Black with an Imola Red leather interior, also features the more desirable 6 speed manual gearbox.
As part of the pre-sales preparation the car was subject to a sympathetic paintwork detail and treated to two coats of Swissvax’s excellent Crystal Rock wax, which provides up to 6-12 months paint protection.
Standard equipment includes air con, auto-dipping rear view mirror, electric seats with driver’s side memory, on board computer and fog lights. In addition, the car has been very well optioned from the factory. The build sheet included in the document history file, identifies additional options which include, wide screen navigation, TV function, heated seats, rear parking sensors, power folding wing mirrors, rain sensing windscreen wipers, headlight cleaning system, xenon headlights, Bluetooth phone preparation, three rear headrests and 6 CD changer in the boot.
The comprehensive documented history that comes with the car evidences regular maintenance over its 97k mile history. Recent works include an oil service, all fluids check, diagnostics check and VANOS check (pass), in August 2022.
The 6 speed gearbox shifts as it should, with the clutch showing no undue signs of wear.
The car rides well on its suspension, with no noticeable clonks or squeaks, even though we note it has been fitted with slightly lower springs than standard.
As can be seen from the photos of the underside, this example is in really good order. An inspection of the rear-subframe and its mounting area was carried out in May 2024, with no issues identified.
As part of the pre-sales preparation, the car’s underside has been treated to our comprehensive underside preservation treatment. This entailed and underside deep clean, any surface corrosion on mechanical componentry removed/ treated and then 3 coatings of clear DINITROL automotive rust prevention and corrosion protection treatment applied.
These cars live to be driven and provide one of the most exhilarating driving experiences of any car from its era and arguably still to this day, unfortunately so many low mileage examples end up in collections, never turning a wheel.
In superb overall condition and with a huge history that supports its 97k miles from new, it is a great example to be used and enjoyed by an enthusiast.
For a full description and over 80 HD photos, please visit our website or feel free to give us a call, contact details in the heading above.
