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.
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.
Finished in Carbon Black metallic, we think it really suits the subtle but muscular styling of the E46.
As close to a “midnight blue” as a black could be, Carbon Black under overcast skies and indirect light, comes off as a vaguely sparkly black with faint hints of some blue in the metallic flake. However, get it under sunlight or any other direct light and the tone completely changes as the black base coat gets pushed to the background by the surprisingly blue metallics.
As can be seen from the photos, the paintwork is in superb overall condition, holds an impressive shine, is uniform both in colour and finish across all panels and all panel gaps are factory tight. Blemishes are almost non-existent, bar some evidence of small stone chips on the leading edge of the bonnet.
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.
For a car now nearly twenty five years old, the car’s overall condition is a true testament to the care it has received throughout its life.
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 seats are both supportive and comfortable and the Imola Red leather upholstery, makes for a very stylish cabin. The seats are in superb overall condition, showing only the lightest of wear, all door cards are good, the headlining free from discolouration and any sagging and the original carpets have been preserved in very good overall condition, protected by OEM over mats front and back.
Electric windows are fitted all round, although the rear windows “pop out” rather than roll down. This allows for both additional ventilation when the front windows are up as well as being able to better savour the wonderful exhaust sounds!
All the switch gear, dials, warning lights and heater, work as they should.
The boot has remained bone dry, with no signs of any corrosion. The car comes with its original tool box containing a pristine set of BMW tools.
The E46 was noted for its ergonomic interior design. With a clear and simple analogue gauge cluster, a multi-function steering wheel, centre stack all angled towards the driver, a perfectly-placed gear lever and well-spaced pedal box, it’s every bit the driver-focused interior you’d expect.
The E46’s 3.2 litre straight -six S54 engine is a driver’s dream. Producing 343 naturally aspirated horsepower at an incredible 7,900 RPM redline, the Double Vanos variable valve timing allows for 80% of its peak 269 ft/lbs of torque to be delivered from just 2000 rpm. The combination provides for a an impressive linear power delivery that was not only impressive back in 2000, but remains one of the most powerful normally aspirated inline-six engines.
Whilst the searing engine is of course the heart of the car, being matched to a timeless six-speed manual box and the first application of BMW’s Variable M Differential creates engagement with incredible malleability.
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.
The car sits on beautifully refurbished 19 inch factory optional 67 Style M Double Spoke Diamond Finish alloy wheels, fitted with 225/40 R19 Michelin Pilot Sport Tyres on the fronts and 255/35 Michelin Pilot Sport tyres on the back. All tyres are date stamped 2022 and have significant tread showing.
Fitted with discs brakes all round for plenty of stopping power, the car was subject to a brake service in May 2024.
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.
This provides for a further level of corrosion resistance to those areas, which is long lasting and jet wash proof. This all adds up to a car that now has outstanding underbody protection from corrosion, typically unavoidable for cars driven on UK roads all year round.
The documented history folder, contains the registration document and clear Total Car Check dated 22/09/2024.
The file contains extensive maintenance and parts invoices, dating from 2009 right up until May 2024, evidencing the high level of care it has received during its lifetime.
Impressively, the file also contains MOT certificates dating back to 2009 which, in conjunction with the invoices detailing mileage, offers substantial evidence to support the car’s mileage as genuine.
Finally, the car comes with a set of 2 keys.
Maintenance as per documented history folder:
Whilst every effort has been taken to ensure accuracy of the vehicle descriptions and information, some inaccuracies may occur. It is important that you do not rely on this information but check with Montpellier Motor Cars Limited about any items which may affect your decision to buy this vehicle, as well as examine the vehicle and check the accuracy of the information before purchasing any vehicle. We cannot accept any liability arising from any errors in the data provided.
Whilst every effort is made to represent details accurately on our Web Site, variations or errors may occur and so the information contained herewith does not constitute an offer for sale of any particular vehicle, accessory or specification.
