Description
A lovely, increasingly rare example of BMW’s E46 325Ci Convertible, with just 55, 000 miles from new and a fresh 12-month MOT.
The E46 is now firmly entering modern-classic territory, and good, original, low-mileage six-cylinder examples are becoming increasingly difficult to find. With its naturally aspirated 2. 5-litre straight-six, rear-wheel drive and beautifully proportioned styling, this is from an era when BMW really did know how to build a great driver's car.
This particular car belonged to my father and has covered only 55, 000 miles in its 22 years. It is in very good condition for its age and, importantly for an E46 Convertible, the electric hood is in very good condition.
It has just been put through an MOT and will be sold with a full 12 months remaining, giving its next owner the reassurance that it is ready to get in and enjoy.
The car also benefits from an additional non-factory immobiliser, providing an extra level of security over the standard BMW system.
The 325Ci is a particularly appealing E46 today. Its wonderfully smooth naturally aspirated straight-six gives it that unmistakable old-school BMW character, while the rear-wheel-drive chassis and open-top body make it a genuinely enjoyable car for a summer evening or a long weekend away.
Highlights
• Just 55, 000 miles from new
• Fresh 12-month MOT
• Desirable 2. 5-litre naturally aspirated straight-six
• Classic rear-wheel-drive E46
• Electric convertible hood in very good condition
• Additional immobiliser fitted
• Very good condition for its age
• Increasingly scarce low-mileage example
• An emerging modern-classic that can still be enjoyed every day
This isn't being presented as a concours museum piece – it is a genuine, well-preserved 22-year-old car – but finding an E46 Convertible with only 55, 000 miles is becoming increasingly unusual.
So many E46s have now covered substantial mileages, been heavily modified or simply disappeared that good, honest six-cylinder cars are beginning to stand out.
A great opportunity to buy a low-mileage example of one of BMW's best-looking generations – to enjoy with the roof down now and preserve for the future.
What strikes me most about this car is just how tight and secure it still feels on the road. With only 55, 000 miles and two owners from new, it doesn’t have the loose or tired feeling you might expect from a car of this age.
There’s a wonderfully analogue quality to it. The steering, chassis and controls give you a real sense of connection with the car, and it feels planted and reassuring at speed. It reminds you why this generation of 3 Series was so highly regarded.
It was my father’s car, and rather than being something that has passed through numerous owners, it has had just two from new. The low mileage and overall condition reflect that.
My favourite thing about it is probably that feeling of solidity. It feels like a car from an era when BMWs were engineered around the driver, without layers of electronics getting between you and the road. With the roof down and that straight-six engine, it has a character that is becoming increasingly difficult to find in a modern car.
