The M3 version of the BMW E46 kept enthusiasts waiting, not appearing until three years after the fourth-generation 3-Series had made its debut – but it was worth the wait.

Powered by a 343bhp 3.2-litre straight-six, it offered incredible performance with 0-60mph dispatched in just five seconds flat, incredible torque and wonderfully balanced handling.

It was a sensation and led to an immediate 18-month waiting list when it finally went on sale in 2001. Today, you don’t need to wait, but you do have to look hard to find a good one, as many of them have been modified and/or used hard. It’s worth seeking one out, though, as not only is the E46 one of the best-looking M3s, but it’s also a truly fantastic car to drive.

This one is a great example, used, but properly cared for a beautifully presented. It’s also a cabriolet, so you can enjoy the popping and crackling from its sports exhaust with the roof down. A beautiful car with a known history, a great colour, and completely unmodified, it has a lot going for it – a gorgeous, example of an honest, unmessed with M3 in factory specification, with no lairy modifications and a good service record.

Finished in Titanium Silver, the M3 is subtle and discreet, while the factory 19-inch alloys are in perfect condition, having been refurbished. They’re shod with a matching set of fairly recent Kumho tyres.

The body is in superb order with no evident damage and there are no signs of any visible rust, while it retains a great shine. The light units – often faded on E46s – are crystal clear and the rear features the M3’s signature “Ministry of Sound” LED light pattern. All of the trim is pretty much flawless.

The roof operates as it ought to and is in excellent condition. The underside looks to be in good order, with no evidence of any corrosion.

Inside, the car features smart black leather and the seats, along with matching door cards and carpets, all in superb order.

It has an aftermarket head unit with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, along with fully functional air conditioning, chrome M3 kickplates and cruise control. The original radio is included along with an unused wind deflector.
 
In the boot, the load area is spotlessly carpeted and the original tool kit is all present and correct.

The M3’s 3.2-litre straight-six develops 343 bhp and is an eager performer – after all, this was a legendary performance car in its day and it still flies along today, accompanied by a raucous exhaust note from its factory exhaust system.
 
This one is equipped with sought-after six-speed manual transmission. The vendor says that it drives perfectly, with no suspension noises and great steering and brakes. It has recently had a full service and sounds fantastic, with no evidence of any mechanical issues.

 

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