BMW’s third-generation M3, the E46, took the hearts of real sports car fans by storm when it was launched in 2000. With a lightweight construction and its high-revving, in-line 6-cylinder engine it embodied for many a return to the virtues of the legendary, first-generation cars, the E30. Priced on a par with the Porsche Boxster S, the E46 M3 was streets ahead in performance, challenging the much pricier 911 and Audi RS4. Stiffened, wider-tracked with big wheel arches and a massive front spoiler, it packed a 343bhp 3.2-litre ‘S54’ straight-six engine substantially re-engineered by the 'M' division. All cars were officially limited to 155mph, although Autocar’s test model happily topped 160mph.

Offered here is a UK-supplied, right-hand drive E46 M3 fitted with the desirable manual gearbox and finished in stylish Titanium Silver with a Black Nappa leather interior. It was first registered on 26th July 2005 and has been enjoyed by five former keepers and our vendor who purchased the car on 2nd February 2019. It would appear that all this lovely car's owners have cherished it and used it lightly as the car has covered just 28,232 miles from new (less than 1,400 with its current owner). 

It was very well specified from new including full black Nappa leather, fully adjustable electric seats with adjustable bolster and lumbar support, heated seats, radio/CD/TV with console screen & phone connection, full 'M' car mat set; folding wing mirrors and a multi-functional steering wheel.

Stamps in the original service record detail a 'running-in' check on 18th August 2005 at 1,055 miles through to the most recent service on 27th April 2022 at 28,198 miles (Inspection II service - £948.68). It's supplied with both keys, original complete tool kit & warning triangle glovebox torch, tyre inflation kit, owners manual and pouch.

This fabulous M3 remains in exceptional condition with gleaming paintwork, factory shut-lines, an excellent interior, impressive engine bay and sits on matching Michelin Pilot Sports, all in excellent condition with good tread.

With values of the E30 M3 rising out of reach and the E36 starting to head in the same direction, quality, manual-gearbox E46 M3s are becoming highly sought after and this delightful, low-mileage example seems very sensibly guided considering the potential on offer.