Description
Since the introduction of the M3 in the form of the 1986 E30, BMW continually developed and honed the concept culminating in the last of the straight-six powered variants, the E46 in the year 2000. Powered by the S54 3. 2l, this was the final iteration of the ‘S50’ naturally aspirated i6 which developed a healthy 338bhp, which was of course deployed via the rear wheels.
This particular example was delivered new to H R Owen of Chelsea on 20 August 2004. It presents well in fetching ‘Carbon-Schwarz’ metallic – a very dark blue, with black leather and black hood. The body is free from defects and corrosion and the hood is in near perfect condition both cosmetically and in its operation. The interior shows some small amounts of wear, most notably for example with the electro-chromatic rear-view mirror. Everything functions as intended however including the electronic adjustment for speed of gear-change via the SMG-II electro-hydraulically operated ‘box.
The car features a factory fitted CD multi-changer with Harmon-Kardon speaker system, along with an aftermarket amplifier located in the boot. It has also been upgraded with BMW 19” ‘CSL’ style alloy wheels which show some loss of powder coating but are free-from kerbing damage. The wheels are shod with premium Goodyear Eagle tyres all-round.
This example has covered just shy of 82k miles and being a convertible RHD car makes it more unusual than its fixed-roof coupe stablemate. According to the M-registry there were 13, 052 RHD coupes built and only 7, 234 convertibles. It is MOT’d until 22 January 2025 and there were no advisory items indicated on the last test. The car is located at Leavenhalls Classic & Prestige in Shropshire. Great condition
Good colour combination
Drives well with relatively low-mileage for year
Usable, respected and desirable modern classic M3.
