2001 BMW (E46) M3 CONVERTIBLE - MANUAL

This 2001 BMW (E46) M3 Convertible is a renowned modern classic in a desirable colour combination, which has been driven as intended but presents in very smart condition. Under the bonnet sits the 338bhp 3.2-litre ‘S54’ straight-six engine, coupled with the sought-after six-speed manual transmission. The odometer currently indicates 130,802 miles from new.

First registered in November 2001, this M3 has been cherished by its current keeper for 15 years, and has just two previous keepers on the V5C.

The bodywork of this M3 is all in good shape, with the vendor noting that various minor scratches and scrapes have been repaired during their ownership. The rear bumper and both of the front wings have been resprayed, and though a few stone chips can be seen on the front bumper and bonnet, these are commensurate with the mileage. The soft top roof has a couple of light surface blemishes, though the car is supplied with a hard top, which is in excellent condition. The car rides on a set of 19-inch alloy wheels, which remain immaculate.

Inside, the cream leather trim is believed to be entirely original, and now has some light age-related creasing. The vendor has reported that a few dark spots can be seen on the driver’s seat base, though these are only noticeable under close inspection. The plastic dashboard trim is free of any significant scuffs and its wooden accents are in great shape, while all of the main contact points present very well. The vendor reports that the rear parking sensors are inoperative, while the battery warning light displays intermittently, which is likely a result of inactivity since a SORN was issued in 2018. However, the other electrical items and switchgear all work as they should.

The car has been off the road in storage for the last three years, and the last routine maintenance was undertaken in October 2014 at 117,197 miles, where technicians at P&R BMW and Mini Specialists carried out an Inspection II service, changing the engine oil, filters, spark plugs and rocker cover gasket. Prior to this, technicians at P&R carried out similar routine servicing in November 2012 at 105,783 miles, and in December 2010 at 91,423 miles.

The most recent MOT test was on 6 April 2021 at 130,800 miles, which resulted in a clean pass with no advisories or defects. The tyres are reported to be in generally good condition, with at least 4mm of tread remaining.

Accompanying the vehicle are the original owner’s manuals, alongside evidence of the service history and numerous maintenance invoices.

This BMW M3 E46 Convertible is a smart example of the breed, featuring a desirable Estoril Blue Metallic colour scheme and the sought-after six-speed manual transmission. While it has been off the road in the last few years and would therefore benefit from a recommissioning service to ensure all the fluids and filters are fresh, this open-top M3 should prove to be a great value performance car, perfect for enjoying in the warmer weather.

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