BMW M3 CONVERTIBLE (E46), 2007

6-speed manual gearbox, Nappa leather interior, electric Sports seats, 19” M double-spoke wheels, climate control, CD multi-changer, Smoker Package, rain sensing wipers, Xenon headlamps & rear parking sensors.

No car combines fun and practicality and relative affordability with quite the same panache as the E46 M3. It’ll be remembered as one of the best sporting cars BMW has ever produced, and this manual example is without question the most desirable. The BMW M3 is a high-performance version of the BMW 3 Series, developed by BMW’s in-house motorsport division, BMW M GmbH. Improvements over the regular 3 Series cars include more powerful and responsive engines, improved handling/suspension/braking systems, aerodynamic body enhancements, lightweight components, and interior/exterior accents with the tri-colour “M” (Motorsport) emblem.

The E46 M3, was first introduced in October 2000, with the new 3,246 cc S54 M-tuned engine. It was only available in coupe and convertible body forms. The engine had a redline of 8,000 rpm. As with most M engines, the S54 again had 6 independent throttle bodies and this time electronically operated throttles, (drive-by-wire throttle with no cable).

Maximum power was 338 bhp, and 0 – 62 mph takes just 5.5 seconds in the convertible and maximum torque is 296 lb/ft at 5,000 rpm. Evo magazine wrote, “That 3.2-litre 338bhp straight-six is wonderful, with an effortless reach, ever-ready vigour and a tight-lipped howl spangled with a zingy, metallic edge.”  

Supplied new by BMW Tice Dorchester in 2007, the all-important running-in service was carried out on 14/07/2007 at 1399 miles. This face-lifted car has been excellently maintained throughout its ownership with regular servicing by Hexagon BMW alongside BMW specialists.