2005 BMW (E46) M3 CS - SMG

This 2005 BMW M3 CS is a handsome example of the firm’s revered E46 sports car, benefiting from several of the limited-run CSL’s enhancements but at a much lower price point. It is powered by the same 338bhp 3.2-litre S54 straight-six engine as the standard M3, driving the rear wheels via a six-speed Sequential Manual Gearbox (SMG) with paddle shift. The odometer reads 94,936 miles from new.

First registered on 19 December 2005, this CS is one of approximately 250 models built for the UK market. The current vendor has owned the car for the last three years, though has driven it sparingly.

Fitted with the S7MA ‘Competition Package’, the CS used the more expensive and track-focused CSL’s quicker steering rack, lightweight 19-inch alloy wheels, uprated brakes and M Track mode button. The cabin gained visual accoutrements including carbon cube trim and liberal usage of suede trim on the steering wheel, gear shift gaiter and handbrake lever.

Looking smart in its original shade of Interlagos Blue metallic, this M3 demonstrates an alluring shine. There is evidence of very minor stone chipping to the front bumper and side mirrors. The vendor notes that both the front and rear bumpers have been resprayed to rectify age-related defects. There are some corrosion bubbles appearing at the rear end of each sill and in the roof gutters; both known E46 M3 weak points.

All of the badges are present and correct, and the front and rear light lenses are in very good order. Riding on its original 19-inch lightweight wheels borrowed from the CSL, this M3 exudes a motorsport-inspired appearance. The alloys are in very good order, with no kerbing marks visible, thanks to a recent refurbishment and new wheel nuts throughout.

The M3’s cabin is a classy mix of understated design and performance intent. Upholstered in black Nappa leather, the seats are in very good condition, with no rips or tears. There is slight wear to the driver’s side bolster from getting in and out of the vehicle, and the front seats feature electric adjustment with driver’s side memory. The optional Harmon Kardon sound system is also fitted, and the dashboard switchgear is in presentable with no scratches or cracking.

The factory-fitted sat-nav has several dead pixels on the display, while the navigation system requires attention as it is not currently reading the DVDs. The seller also advises that the air-conditioning system is not blowing cold air, and a local specialist has recommended the replacement of two areas of pipework to rectify this.

The most recent maintenance was an oil service carried out in August 2018 by marque specialist JBSAS Ltd at 94,574 miles. Prior to this, an Inspection II service was undertaken at 87,341 miles and an Inspection I service at 74,492 miles. The seller has also recently replaced the ABS sensors. A summary of the service history is included below.

The most recent MOT test was on 20 August 2020 at 94,919 miles. This resulted in a pass, with advisories for corrosion to all four brake hose ferrules, as well as noting that three of the tyres were down to 3mm of tread.

This CS wears a matching set of Goodyear Eagle F1 tyres, in the correct staggered fitment of 225/40/R19 front and 255/30/R19 rear. It will be supplied with its original handbooks, stamped service book, two keys, and the original tool kit and first aid kit.

One of the rarest variants of the E46, this BMW M3 CS is in original condition with a very good service history. Thanks to its sonorous straight-six and engaging chassis, it would make a welcome addition to any collection of performance cars, and deserves to be regularly driven and enjoyed on the road.

Summary of service history:

• 1338 miles - Running-in service
• 14206 miles - Oil service
• 28493 miles - Inspection 1 service
• 42205 miles - Oil service
• 50214 miles - Inspection 2 service
• 61109 miles - Oil service
• 74492 miles - Inspection 1 service
• 87341 miles - Inspection 2 service
• 94574 miles - Oil service

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.