Highlights
- Desirable 3.0-litre 6 cylinder petrol engine paired with 5-speed manual transmission
- Attractive colour combination of Topaz blue over a cream leather interior
- Recently benefiting from replacement of the trailing arm bushes and rear shock absorbers
- Recent fitment of two new rear Pirelli P7 tyres with wheel alignment
The Appeal
The E46 BMW 3-series is rightfully considered to be a high point in the Bavarian manufacturer’s model history. Released to widespread acclaim, the E46 continued to build on, and refine, the formula laid down by its predecessors. Improvements such as increased chassis stiffness and a reduction in unsprung weight helped make the E46 the best handling 3-series to date.
Introduced in 2000, the 330i model replaced the 328i and sat near the very top of the 3-series tree. Powered by the sublime M54 230 BHP 3.0-litre 6 cylinder engine, the combination of smooth and progressive power delivery made this car an absolute gem of the range.
This particular example, in desirable coupe form, combines that fantastic powerplant with a manual gearbox, the end result being a fantastic and engaging driving experience.
Presented in the popular shade of Topaz blue over cream leather, this 330ci offers a great opportunity to get behind the wheel of one of BMW’s absolute classics and a car which is sure to only grow in appreciation in years to come.
The History and Paperwork
- V5C present
- First registered June 2001
- 4 former keepers
- MOT valid until 24/11/2023
- Stacks of invoices relating to previous servicing work
- Owner’s manual and service book with some stamped service history
The Interior
- Luxury SE trim specification with cream leather and light walnut veneers
- All usual BMW refinements reported to be functioning normally
- Full set of matching floor mats
Presented in the pleasant combination of light cream leather over walnut veneer trim, the interior of this E46 is an inviting place to be. Just with BMWs before and since, the dials and switchgear are all angled towards the driver, leaving no doubt in the mind that this is first and foremost a driving machine.
Looking at the interior, the condition is commensurate with the mileage of the car and would not take much from the new owner to really lift it to the next level. There is some relatively minor wear evident to both the front seats, with some small damage evident over the driver’s seat bolster. The rear seats however, appear in excellent and almost unused condition.
The vendor reports the door to the first aid compartment has come off its hinges, but is present and should be a relatively straightforward repair.
The Exterior
- Gorgeous shade of Topaz blue paintwork nicely complemented by five spoke alloy wheels
- 2 new rear tyres fitted recently by current owner
- Body panels and panel gaps appear straight
The coupe body shape of this 330ci is nicely accentuated in this gorgeous shade of Topaz blue and the car looks taut and purposeful, sitting very nicely on its 5 spoke alloy wheels.
The bodywork and panel gaps are generally good and straight, however note is made of some corrosion over the offside front wheel arch. This is a known trouble spot on the E46 and is relatively straightforward to address, should the new owner desire. Otherwise however, the galvanised body of the car presents well.
The paint condition is generally as one would expect with a car of this mileage, that is to say there are some stone chips affecting the front end and some minor scuffs around the car. Again, something which could be remedied by the next owner should this be desired.
The lovely alloy wheels are shod in new rubber on the rears and would benefit from a refurbishment – a relatively quick job which would immediately lift the car’s appearance.
The Mechanics
- Recent replacement of trailing arm bushes and rear shock absorbers, together with new rear tyres
- Recent wheel alignment and reported by owner to now handle very nicely along the road
- Engine bay appears to be in original and unmodified condition
Speaking to the owner it’s clear he has thoroughly enjoyed owning this motor over the past 5 to 6 years. He extols the engine and gearbox in particular and claims the car to be the smoothest driving vehicle he has ever experienced - this would certainly be in-keeping with the received wisdom on the 3.0-litre M54 engine.
The car is reported to start and run very well, delivering its power smoothly throughout the rev range, complimented by an equally sweet and smooth manual gearchange.
It is reported that the car handles well on the road, without any undue rattles or knocks and stops well and straight when required.
Summary
The E46 330ci is a truly desirable model from BMW’s back catalogue. Coming from an age when BMW had a certain purity to both their design and driving experience, this car represents an excellent opportunity to get behind the wheel of an appreciating classic.
Notice to bidders
This item is sold on an ‘As is Where is’ basis. The condition of this item is the opinion of the seller and may differ from your own opinion. Photos and listing descriptions are for guidance purposes only*.** Car & Classic do not warrant listing accuracy. Full inspection is recommended. Viewings are at the seller’s discretion. Buyer is responsible for delivery and collection of any item purchased.*
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