2002 BMW (E46) M3 - MANUAL

This 2002 BMW (E46) M3 is a modern classic performance hero, which is presented in highly original condition and with an attractive Topaz Blue finish. Under the bonnet sits the 338bhp 3.2-litre S54 straight-six engine, coupled to the desirable six-speed manual transmission. The odometer currently indicates 94,436 miles from new.

First registered in August 2002, this M3 has been in the hands of its current keeper for the last year. It is believed to be original and unmodified, with the exception of a set of Tein lowering springs.

The bodywork presents well and the vehicle is finished in the relatively rare Topaz Blue metallic hue, which is believed to be original. It presents with some age-related stone chips on the front bumper, while the vendor has reported that a few small paint bubbles can be seen around the offside front wheel arch. The body trims and quad exhausts are in good shape, while the sunroof is in working order. Considered by many to be the enthusiast’s choice with the associated deeper sidewall tyres, the 18-inch alloys are in superb order having been fully refurbished.

Inside, the black leather trim is in fair condition, and two obvious tears can be seen on the driver’s outer bolster. However, it would be straightforward for a skilled trimmer to renew the bolster section, and the upholstery would then present well, as the rest shows only modest creasing and wear. The main steering wheel contact points are worn through the outer coating in places, though again this could be refurbished should the next owner desire. Otherwise, the cabin presents in good order for its age, and is well-equipped with climate control, cruise control, the BMW Business stereo; and the powered front seats with lumbar support and bolster cushion adjustment.

The last routine maintenance was undertaken in January 2021 at 94,230 miles, where technicians at Eden Motors in Yeovil carried out an Inspection II service, changing the engine oil, filter, spark plugs, brake fluid and rear subframe bushes, before replacing the clutch switch for the cruise control system. The vendor also states that the tappets have recently been checked and adjusted. Prior to this, routine servicing took place in September 2018 at 92,143 miles, and in February 2015 at 75,192 miles.

The most recent MOT test was on 25 September 2020 at 92,633 miles, which resulted in a pass with two advisories to monitor worn front tyres, which have since been replaced. All four wheels are now shod in a matching set of Yokohama tyres, which are as-new.

This BMW (E46) M3 is a well-maintained example of the acclaimed modern classic, which features the desirable six-speed manual transmission, 18-inch wheels, and rides on a set of uprated Tein lowering springs. While the next owner may wish to give the interior some cosmetic ‘TLC’, this M3 would make a fun weekend toy for any enthusiast, or could easily be put into more frequent use.

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. 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. On the HPI report, this vehicle shows no insurance database markers for damage or theft, and has no finance owing. Bidders should note that a HPI check shows a damage marker against a previous registration plate; however, the plate was not assigned to this particular M3 at the time of the incident, so it evidently refers to another car.