1999 BMW (E46) 328i SE - 51,885 MILES

This BMW 328i SE is a practical modern classic saloon, presented in smart condition throughout, having been driven and cared for by a single family and their staff from new. Under the bonnet sits the 2.8-litre M52 straight-six producing around 192bhp and 207lb-ft of torque, coupled with a five-speed automatic transmission. The odometer currently indicates just 51,885 miles from new.

First registered in November 1999 having been ordered through BMW Wimbledon, this 328i SE was kept by the same family from new until three years ago, when it was acquired by a member of their staff. There are three previous keepers on the log book due to the name of the registered company changing over time. The car is understood to have been used as plush but discreet transport, being driven most frequently by the lady of the house for shopping trips. It was also sometimes used for being chauffeured. The car is reported to be a familiar sight at Harrods’ valet parking.

The bodywork of this saloon has reportedly never sustained any serious damage, presenting today with flush shut lines and smooth panels. The condition of the Titan Silver paintwork is described as being very good overall, with the vendor noting minor scuffs on the corners of the front bumper, while one or two small stone chips can also be seen around the front end. The vehicle rides on a set of 17-inch alloy wheels, which are heavily grazed on the nearside rear and offside front rims in particular, and would benefit from professional refurbishment.

The interior is in excellent condition, with the buttery beige Montana leather showing only modest signs of use, with no heavy wear or discolouration. There is some scuffing around the ashtray console in the rear, and also a small puncture mark on the nearside rear door armrest. Otherwise, the cabin looks genuinely superb, commensurate with the low mileage. It is accented by walnut burr inlays throughout, and is equipped with BMW Professional media and navigation, TV tuner, a CD changer, climate control, and cruise control.

The last service was undertaken at around 50,000 miles, where technicians changed the engine oil, filter and brake fluid, before fitting new discs and pads all round. Prior to this, Cooper BMW Cobham carried out a scheduled service before replacing both front lower suspension arms and bushes. The car has also recently received a new battery.

The most recent MOT test was on 24 November 2020 at 51,882 miles, which resulted in a pass with five advisories regarding a weak screen wash function, worn offside rear tyre, a light misting of oil on the rear shock absorbers, slight play in the offside drag link ball joint, and incorrectly fitted front coil springs. The vendor notes that he has since has the washer jets cleaned out and replaced the offside rear tyre with a matching Pirelli item.

Accompanying the vehicle is the full book pack, including the owner’s manual and service book, as a large folder of maintenance history, invoices and old MOT certificates.

This BMW 328i SE is an original and unmodified example of the breed, which presents in very good order throughout and has reportedly only ever been driven by a mother and her daughter, as well as their staff. A refined and attractive cruiser, this 328i would make a reliable companion for long-distance road trips, or a versatile and enjoyable daily driver.

The description of this auction lot is, to the best of the seller's knowledge, accurate and not misleading. Collecting Cars requests a range of detail about the lot from the seller, and performs a level of due diligence through HPI checks and MOT history where available. However, bidders must satisfy themselves as to the accuracy of the description, and conduct any research they feel is necessary before committing to a bid. Please see our Terms and Conditions for full details.

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.