Description
The Bolesworth Castle March 2025 Classic & Performance Car Auction
Sunday, 09th March 2025.
2004 BMW M3
A highly sought-after six speed manual, non-sunroof configuration
Registration – RF04 WCT
Chassis No. – WBSBL92090JR08922
M. O. T. – November 2025
Odometer – 140, 200
‘RF04WCT’ is an example of the third generation of BMW M3 in E46 guise. As if that’s not already tempting enough, this is a widely preferred manual version featuring the six-speed Getrag 420G transmission and is a non-sunroof model to boot. In other words, a real purists’ delight. Clearly the eight keepers to date have appreciated what they had as ‘RF04WCT’ is complete with a fully stamped service book documenting the last service in November 2024. As well as routine maintenance, ‘RF04WCT’ has seemingly wanted for nothing in terms of non-routine works, including a VANOS service, air conditioning re-gas and a re-trimmed steering wheel. This fine E46 M3 in this optimum specification comes with a current MOT valid until November 2025.
‘RF04WCT’ further adds to its innate desirability by presenting in the perennially popular BMW Silbergrau, or Silver Grey livery. The exterior of ‘RF04WCT’ remains entirely faithful to the original “less is more” Ulf Weidhase design and is all the better for it. This M3 sits purposefully on its original 67M double spoked alloy wheels with diamond cut faces. These are complete with subtle M-sport badges. The vendor reports that ‘RF04WCT’s’ underside and wheel arches are very solid and free from corrosion. The M3’s cabin is finished in black leather and, again, exhibits a highly desirable level of sought-after originality. Only the Bluetooth head unit and the retrimmed steering wheel are known to be non-original. ‘RF04WCT’s’ paintwork, bodywork and interior are all rated “good” by the vendor.
Any M-car’s headline act is always going to dwell under the bonnet, of course, and ‘RF04WCT’ is no exception. The E46 M3 was fitted with the S54 unit which was the ultimate evolution of the hugely admired S50, naturally aspirated straight six engine. Being an M-engine, it features separate throttle bodies for each cylinder and, new for the E46 M3, “drive-by-wire” throttle control. The results speak for themselves. Originally rated at 338 bhp at a dizzyingly high 7, 900rpm. This translated into a five second 0-60mph time and a 155mph electronically limited top speed. Hugely impressive in 2004 and still very competitive today.
In summary:
· A highly sought-after six speed manual, non-sunroof configuration
· Offered complete with a fully stamped service book and much supporting paperwork
· Maintaining a high degree of originality and a popular colourway
This Car has been entered into Hampson Auctions, The Bolesworth classic and performance car and motorcycle auction, which will be held at Bolesworth Castle, Tattenhall, Chester, CH3 9JJ on Sunday 09th March 2025.
Viewing sessions will take place at Bolesworth castle from 9am - 7pm on Saturday 08th March and from 9am - 12:00 on Sunday 09th March, with the auction itself commencing at 12pm on Sunday 09th March, and you are very welcome to join us there.
Prospective buyers can bid in the room, online, over the telephone or via commission – please contact Hampson Auctions directly if you would like to arrange one of the latter two options, or if you would like to request a condition report.
The auction catalogue so far is available to view via our website.
Auction entries are currently still being accepted, if you have a vehicle which you would like to consign, please contact us.
£10000 - £12000
Buyer's Premium 12. 5%
