Descrição
When people ask me what the next big trend will be in the classic car world, this is as good a response as any! Here we have a 2006 BMW M3 Convertible, (the final year of production) SMG II Gearbox, Silver Grey Metallic with Black Nappa Leather, 44k Miles from new with a Full History. It just doesnt get any better! The car is like new and there cannot be a better one out there!
This generation of M3 (E46) was the one that cemented the brand’s legend. The original M3 (E30) was an all-out racer; with a side line as a road car. Its successor (E36) swapped these roles around – to its detriment. The third M3 finally nailed the formula. Arriving in 2000, it instantly proved itself as an exceptional road car and racer. Coincidentally, it also rode on the crest of the popular new track-day wave.
The drivetrain was a blueprint for driver enjoyment. A naturally aspirated inline six-cylinder engine up front with a manual gearbox (or an SMG) bolted to the back; its propshaft sending drive through a limited-slip differential to the rear wheels. The cherry on top was that power came from arguably BMW’s greatest ever production engine, the 338bhp S54. This 3. 2-litre straight-six makes peak power just shy of 8000rpm and, as anyone who has ventured up that high will know, it’s an experience not forgotten in a hurry.
Cornering speed has always been an M3 party piece, but the E46 could carry licence-losing pace through the bends. When you did finally break the laws of physics, the M-differential apportioned torque based on wheel speed. This allowed really fine control of the rear end and made your average driver look like a drifting god. Plus, for those who wanted driver-focussed wind in their hair thrills, few machines got close to this era of drop-top M3.
The E46 M3, was first introduced in October 2000, with the new 3, 246 cc S54 M-tuned engine. It was only available in coupe and convertible body forms. The engine had a redline of 8, 000 rpm. As with most M engines, the S54 again had 6 independent throttle bodies and this time electronically operated throttles, (drive-by-wire throttle with no cable). Maximum power was 338 bhp, and 0 - 62 mph takes just 5. 5 seconds in the convertible and maximum torque is 296 lb/ ft at 5, 000 rpm. Evo magazine wrote, “That 3. 2-litre 338bhp straight-six is wonderful, with an effortless reach, ever-ready vigour and a tight-lipped howl spangled with a zingy, metallic edge.”
Our car was supplied new by Scotthall BMW in Leeds and was ordered in Silver Grey with Black Nappa Leather, the modern SMG II gearbox was optioned which allows flappy paddle or full Automatic modes. In addition the first owner specified Electric Folding Mirrors, Black Soft Top, Front Armrest, Heated Seats, Professional Sat Nav, Television, Enhanced Bluetooth Telephone, Harmon Kardon Surround Sound Audio and the car was finished off with the Hardtop and the Classic M-Double Spoke Alloys. I think you will agree this is a fantastic specification. The very low mileage of 44k is backed up by 8 stamps in the service book and many invoices in the History file. SHe is showing 7 owners from new with the last having her for 3 years. The M3 will have a new MOT, was serviced less than 1000 miles ago and is ready for the summer! Find another one in this condition!
