Highlights
- Iconic turn-of-the-millennium performance car, specified with the desirable manual gearbox
- Upgraded infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity
- Acquired by the seller, its second owner, in 2004 with 17,215 miles recorded
- Fresh MOT until July 1st 2027 and ULEZ compliant
The Appeal
The E46-era BMW M3 was launched in 2000 and was for many years the M division’s greatest success story, with over 85,000 units sold. Offering the compelling combination of a smooth straight six breathing through six individual throttle bodies, a howling redline north of 8,000rpm, a beautifully balanced chassis, and one of the finest engine and exhaust notes, it more than deserves its reputation as one of the all-time great M-cars.
Time has been particularly kind to the E46 M3. While modern performance cars have grown larger, heavier and increasingly dependent on turbocharging and electronic intervention, the M3’s naturally aspirated straight-six, manual gearbox and communicative handling continue to offer a refreshingly pure driving experience.
This particular M3 boasts a highly desirable specification. Finished in Carbon Black, a shade that appears almost black in subdued light before revealing rich navy hues in direct sunshine, it is equipped with the sought-after manual gearbox and the earlier, arguably more attractive 18-inch alloy wheels. Thoughtfully modernised for contemporary use, it also benefits from an upgraded infotainment system offering wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity.
Further highlights include ULEZ compliance, an MOT valid until July 2027, a service carried out only a few thousand miles ago. Offered from almost 22 years of ownership, it is now ready to begin its next chapter with only its third keeper from new.
Key Information
- Mileage: 77,500 miles
- Country of registration: United Kingdom
- Technical inspection status: MOT valid until 1 July 2027 with advisory only for undertrays fitted
- Technical specs: Naturally aspirated 3.2-litre inline-six, six-speed manual gearbox
- Paperwork: Owner’s book pack, V5C registration certificate, all service invoices with clear timeline
- Vendor says, 'fresh MOT will be available during the auction period'
Service history:
04/25 – 74,511 miles – K&M Auto-Technics
05/23 – 70,170 miles – K&M Auto-Technics
03/21 – 66,928 miles – K&M Auto-Technics
01/16 – 58,992 miles – K&M Auto-Technics
06/12 – 49,234 miles – K&M Auto-Technics
12/06 – 28,090 miles – BMW Stratstone Taplow
10/04 – 17,215 miles – BMW Sytner City
01/03 – 9,068 miles – BMW Sytner City
The Detail
- Carbon Black paintwork
- Black leather cabin with aluminium-effect inlays
- 18-inch alloy wheels
- Specification also includes reversing sensors, electrically adjustable front seats with three-position driver’s memory, an electric sunroof, cruise control, climate control, and a Harman/Kardon sound system
- The original BMW Business stereo has been removed (but is also supplied) and has been replaced with a modern double-DIN Sony unit fitted into a fascia adapter, which brings wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity
- Purchased from BMW Sytner City in November 2004 at 17,215 miles by the seller, who originally used it for commuting and now covers only a few thousand miles a year
- Recent paintwork carried out to correct ‘inevitable London parking scratches’
- Paintwork imperfections include stone chips on the front end, a pin dent in front of the nearside rear wheel, and a little chipping on the leading edge of the driver’s door
- Very minor leather wear/usual expected patina inside the cabin
- Some scuffs on the rear of the driver’s seat
- Last serviced in April 2025 at 74,511 miles, which included replacing the engine oil, oil filter, air conditioning belt, poly V-belt, and ABS sensor
- During this service, points noted include slight corrosion and grease on the rear brake pipes, corroded rear brake discs, splitting rear top mounts, and an engine oil leak
- The seller reports that the vehicle has service history but no service book
- The wheels have been refurbished
- All cabin electrics are said to function correctly
- Shorter M5 gear lever fitted
- Original CD changer in boot
- Four keys supplied
- Non-smoker and no pets in current ownership
- Recalls carried out by BMW dealers
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