1998 BMW (E46) 328i

This BMW 328i SE is a smartly presented, original example of the junior executive saloon. Under the bonnet is a 2.8-litre M52 straight-six producing 192bhp and 207lb-ft of torque, coupled to a five-speed automatic transmission. The odometer currently indicates 86,310 miles from new.

Initially registered on 24 September 1998, this UK-market example remains highly original and unmodified, and has relatively low mileage for a 22-year-old car. There are four previous keepers on the V5C.

Finished in the handsome shade of Steel Blue metallic, this remains in good order around the car, with some stone chips visible on the front bumper and bonnet. Scuffs are visible on both front bumper corners, with the driver’s side headlight also showing some signs of condensation. All four wheel arches appear to be free of unsightly blemishes, with no signs of rust setting in.

The vendor notes that two small dents were repaired and professionally painted, with this example believed to retain its original bodywork throughout. It even retains the original BMW Hungerford number plates, which would have been installed by the supplying dealer in 1998. Riding on its optional seven-spoke, 17-inch alloy wheels, these remain in good condition with no kerbing marks visible thanks to recent refurbishment.

Inside, the E46’s driver-focused interior has aged well, with the seats remaining in good condition. The front passenger seat shows signs of discolouration on its seat base, but otherwise only minor signs of wear are seen on the steering wheel and gear knob. This example also features the upgraded multifunction steering wheel, and still retains its BMW-branded torch in the glovebox.

This example has evidently been well looked after throughout its life, with high-use areas such as the grey footwell carpets and sill kick plates presenting in good order. The vendor adds that all electrical accessories remain in good condition, with no dashboard warning lights illuminated.

The most recent service was undertaken in October 2020 at approximately 80,000 miles. This was an engine oil service, with the requisite oil and air filters replaced. Past services in recent years were carried out by Vale Garage of Faringdon, with air, oil and cabin filters replaced along with the spark plugs and oil in September 2015 at 73,633 miles. In February 2012, the same garage carried out a major service which also saw the rear differential oil replaced.

Other recent maintenance has included replacement of the heater resistor, as well as the exhaust system from the catalytic converters rearward. In addition to the recent wheel refurbishment, the car has also received new front brake discs and pads.

The most recent MOT test was on 7 April 2020 at 78,753 miles. This was a first-time pass, with advisories only for the offside front outer suspension ball joint and a cut on the nearside front tyre. The vendor has since replaced all four tyres, with brand-new Dunlop Sport Maxx tyres on the rear axle, and Bridgestone Potenzas on the front that have only a few thousand miles of use. All four are in good condition.

Accompanying the car is the original book pack and wallet, including owner’s manual, maintenance record, and European service map, as well as a user guide for the BMW radio, and a BMW fuse diagram. There is also paperwork in the file relating to the first registered owner, and other invoices and receipts. The tool kit, safety triangle, jack, and spare wheel are all present, as are two keys.

This BMW 328i SE saloon is a well-maintained and original example of the brand’s popular executive saloon. Offering famously smooth straight-six power as well as elegant and clean design, this example would make for a reliable daily driver, and is arguably now something of an ‘everyman’ modern classic.

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All UK-registered cars and motorbikes on Collecting Cars are run through an online HPI check. This vehicle shows no insurance database markers for damage or theft, and has no finance owing.