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2002 BMW (E46) 330Ci SPORT CONVERTIBLE

Having become something of a hidden gem in the E46 range, the 330Ci offers elements of the verve and finesse associated with other well-known manual, rear-wheel-drive BMWs at a very appealing price point. This 2002 BMW 330Ci Sport Convertible is finished in Topaz Blue with grey leather, and has covered 63,884 miles from new.

This 330Ci is powered by a 3.0-litre naturally aspirated six-cylinder DOHC engine, paired with the six-speed manual gearbox. As noted by Modern Classics magazine in a recent article, “The BMW 330Ci is more than just a 'poor man’s' E46 M3”. It offers a thoroughly engaging drive, with journalist Nathan Chadwick reporting, “You feel part of the driving experience in a way the standard M3 doesn’t quite deliver”.

This Convertible example is in great unmodified condition. First registered in October 2002, this 330Ci has been in the care of a private owner for the past 15 years, with just one registered keeper before that. It is now offered by the trade to another enthusiast.

The Topaz Blue paintwork is described as in very good order, with the vendor noting some very small stone chips on the bonnet and front wings, and other minor imperfections around the car. The front bumper, side skirts and back panel have previously been repainted, but otherwise it is believed to have original paint. Its rear floor, a common weak point on the E46, appears to be in excellent condition with no signs of cracks.

All of the light lenses and body trims present well, and the current owner has had the wheels refurbished. They are in great shape, and are fitted with nearly-new Maxxis tyres all round.

Moving inside, the grey leather interior is in good condition with only slight wear and discolouration on the driver’s seat, and a crack within the gear knob emblem. No defects have been reported with the electric soft top. This 330Ci features air-conditioning, heated seats, electric windows and rear parking sensors.

The car received an oil service on 13 March 2020 at 63,779 miles by the seller’s own business, SR Auto Services, and was put through an MOT test on the same date. This resulted in a first-time pass with only one advisory regarding wear to the nearside front suspension arm bush. A binding front brake and airbag warning light noted on the previous MOT were both rectified. The car currently has a fault with the outside temperature sensor, which will be repaired before sale.

Accompanying the car is the complete original book pack, and the seller also has 17 invoices from BMW main dealers covering various servicing and maintenance work carried out up to 2018.

This BMW 330Ci Sport Convertible is a desirable and rewarding variant of E46, which is becoming more popular among enthusiasts who see it as a great value performance car. This car has a superb specification, very good history, and is presented in excellent overall condition.

Please note: the winning bid on this car is subject to Collecting Cars’ standard buyer's premium of 6%, with a minimum premium of £600 and a maximum premium of £6,000. This is clearly stated in the pop-up bid confirmation window, but please ensure you have factored this in before placing your bid.

Summary of service history: