2000 BMW (E46) 330i SE - 13,416 MILES

This BMW 330i SE is a refined and powerful compact saloon, presented in outstanding condition and with very low mileage from new. Under the bonnet is a 3.0-litre straight-six, producing around 228hp, with rear-wheel drive via a five-speed manual transmission – giving this practical family car genuinely impressive performance. The odometer shows just 13,450 miles from new.

First registered on 01 December 2000, this 330i was bought new by a gentleman who used it as his ‘touring’ car to take long trips with his wife, using another car as his daily driver – hence this 3 Series’ low mileage.

Some years later, the first keeper passed away and the car was inherited by his son, who then sold it a little over a year ago to the current keeper, who is the 3 Series Register Captain for the BMW Car Club UK. The current owner is now offering the car for sale to make more room in their collection.

The bodywork is in excellent overall condition, with smooth, even shut lines and no signs of damage on any of the panels. It is finished in Alpine White paintwork, which presents very well, and while the seller notes that there might be the odd blemish, it would take a very close inspection to find them. When the seller acquired the car, there were some minor scuffs to the bumpers, which have since been repaired to a high standard.

All of the exterior trim and badging is very smart and the metallic trims surrounding the windows are bright and undamaged. The light lenses are also in great shape, showing no signs of hazing, cracks or scratches. The car rides on its original set of seven-spoke alloy wheels, which have all been refurbished and show minimal signs of wear.

Looking to the interior, the seats are all upholstered in grey fabric, which remains in pristine condition. There is no perceivable wear to the bases or bolsters, and certainly no damage or stains. The seller states that they remain firm and supportive, commensurate with the car’s very low mileage. A thorough inspection of the cabin reveals the rest of the interior trim to be in equally superb order, with only some minor scuffs on top of the ashtray.

The multi-function steering wheel is trimmed in leather, as are the gear knob and handbrake lever, and the finish remains very good indeed. This 330i is still fitted with its original BMW Business CD player and features air-conditioning and cruise control. All of the interior buttons, switches and electrical items work as they should.

Extremely well cared-for and driven sparingly, the car is in fantastic mechanical condition, with its under-stressed engine running smoothly and without fault. As an SE-specification car, this 330i is also fitted with more compliant suspension than the harder-edged ‘M Sport’ versions, offering a comfortable ride without any untoward knocks, bangs or creaks.

Its last routine maintenance was carried out in June 2016 at 12,069 miles by BMW and Mercedes specialist MBS in Exeter, consisting of an oil service and brake fluid change. The seller notes that this 3 Series is due for another service – based on age rather than mileage. It has recently been fitted with a new battery, with the balance of a three-year guarantee.

The last annual MOT test was conducted on 10 May 2020 at 13,179 miles, when it received a clean, first-time pass with no advisories. The wheels are fitted with a mixture of Bridgestone and Pirelli tyres in size 225/45 R17. All four are in good condition and have around 6mm of usable tread remaining.

Accompanying the car are all of its correct handbooks, documentation of its service history, a copy of the original brochure and the original order paperwork, past MOT certificates and tax discs, plus a period-correct price list for the 330i’s optional extras. It will also be supplied with its four original keys and a full tool kit, which is in as-new condition, still housed in the boot-lid storage compartment.

This BMW 330i SE is a handsome and accomplished cruiser, presented in remarkable original condition and with very low mileage from new. Described by the seller as being tight, quiet and driving like a new car, it will make an excellent addition to any collection of modern classics.

All 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.