Highlights
- Extensively restored and improved over a 4-year period
- Comprehensive M3 conversion with genuine parts
- Complete professional respray with all old layers removed
- Rebuilt 230bhp M54 3L engine with only 15,000 km since work
- Desirable 5spd manual gearbox
- Full M3 interior with original seats and upholstery
The Appeal
The E46 is widely regarded as one of the best BMWs of the last 30 years, a car that arrived at the peak point when technology enhanced rather than replaced analogue engagement. There are many flavours of E46 available, but arguably this one blends many of the best.
It is ‘officially’ a 330Ci with the sweet-revving 3L M54 230bhp engine. But it looks, of course, exactly like an M3. That compelling blend is thanks to the vendor’s four-year renovation of the car. He wanted to create a persuasive M3 evocation, and we think he’s achieved that. The car features M3 panelling, fully resprayed in dark blue, and a smart grey M3 leather interior. There are also useful M3 running gear modifications, including a tower brace, so that this car handles like an M car too.
The work included rebuilding the engine. The vendor reports that it has covered only 15,000 kms since. He tells us that the car runs and drives very well. A very interesting proposition for the E46 fan, where all the work has already been done.
The vendor says:
“The car is in perfect condition and awaits its new owner. After 4 years of work and a lot of money, it has become a really good car.
“The car is torquey, powerful and fast. I hope I have succeeded in making an increasingly valuable car.
History and Paperwork
- First registered in 2001
- Factory E46 330ci with manual gearbox
- Acquired by the current keeper in 2020
- Comprehensive four-year restoration and M3 conversion project by seller
- Engine rebuilt to factory specifications with 15,000 km since rebuild
- Total vehicle mileage stands at 240,000 km
- Original engine retained with matching numbers
The Condition
- Complete professional respray to a high standard in dark blue as shown
- M3 body conversion, including rear bumper, rear fender flares, front fenders, hood, and front bumper
- M3 multispoke alloys fitted
- Genuine M3 interior in grey leather, including seats with original upholstery
- Factory-fitted options include electric seats with memory, rear electric blind, electric windows, and GPS
- Original large dashboard display replaced with M3 version
- Bluetooth hands-free system installed
- M3 tower brace fitted for improved chassis rigidity
- Carpets present well through the cabin and boot areas
- Debadged and fitted with a black front grille
The Mechanics
- 3.0-litre inline-six M54 230bhp engine
- 5-speed manual transmission
- Engine completely rebuilt to factory-new condition, we are told
- M3 suspension springs fitted
- New control arms matching original specifications
- The vendor states the car is in perfect mechanical condition
- Fully serviced and ready for its new owner according to the seller
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