RESERVE LOWERED: 2005 BMW (E46) M3 CS SMG

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RESERVE LOWERED: 2005 BMW (E46) M3 CS SMG

This BMW M3 CS is a coveted M-car, presented in superb cosmetic and mechanical condition, with comprehensive service history. Its engine is the 3.2-litre S54 straight-six engine, producing 338bhp, driven through the six-speed Sequential Manual Gearbox (SMG) with paddle shifters. The odometer shows 62,656 miles from new.

The online VIN record for this M3 confirms that it was equipped with the ‘Competition Package’ (code S7MA) from the factory, and was completed in May 2005. The CS model featured the CSL’s quicker steering rack, uprated brakes, lightweight alloys, and the M Track mode button. Inside, there was suede trim for the steering wheel, gear shifter and handbrake lever, along with ‘cube’ design aluminium accents.

It is believed that around 250 examples were produced for the UK market, making it a very rare version of the E46 model. This particular car was first registered in June 2005, and has been owned by the vendor for the last year.

The bodywork of this M3 CS remains in superb condition, with no accident damage or dents. There are some light marks on the boot lid, to the right of the number plate, and some small scratches on the bumper. Its Carbon Black metallic paint finish has a wonderfully smooth and glossy appearance all around the car, with just a few stone chips on the front bumper.

The boot floor has been checked for damage - a common problem for the E46 M3 - on each visit to specialist BMR Performance in the last year, and was found to be in sound condition during these inspections. The car sits on the correct 19-inch alloy wheels, which were all fully refurbished at specialist Lepsons last year.

Inside, the seats are trimmed in full black Nappa leather, and all of the upholstery remains in excellent condition. While the driver’s seat has some visible wear commensurate with the mileage, there are only minimal scuffs on the side bolsters. There are a few nicks behind the front passenger seat and on one door pillar trim, but the headlining is in very good order.

The front seats are electrically adjustable with multi-position lumbar and bolster support, and with three-stage heating. The steering wheel, handbrake lever and metal SMG gear shift lever all feature synthetic suede trim, which remains in good condition. Factory-fitted equipment includes climate control, rear parking sensors, xenon headlights, and the BMW Professional media system with satellite navigation and a six-disc CD changer.

In October 2019, the seller commissioned marque specialist BMR Performance in West Sussex to install the CSL-style carbon-fibre air intake system, along with associated modifications to the engine loom. This was a comprehensive retro-fit, which included a Karnobius Composites plenum, new air filter element, replacement of the control unit along with CSL software upgrade, an additional air line and air valve, and a renewed expansion tank. All of the original BMW components were retained by the seller, and are boxed up with the car.

The last scheduled maintenance was in July 2019 at 62,137 miles, also at BMR Performance, which included a full Inspection II service, with engine oil and oil filter replacement, renewed oils in the gearbox and differential, and fresh brake fluid. The exhaust tips were also replaced, along with the con-rod bolts and bearings, indicator lenses, bonnet badge, and the M Mobility tyre inflation kit. An AUX input for the stereo was also installed.

The two services prior to this were in June 2018 at 60,377 miles, and in September 2017 at 56,514 miles, both carried out by Chandlers BMW in Brighton. It has evidently been very well-maintained by its previous keepers, and had the important running-in service in August 2005 at 1,418 miles.

Its last MOT test was on 17 March 2020 at 62,627 miles, which resulted in a first-time pass with no advisories. The wheels are shod in Michelin Pilot Super Sport tyres, in size 225/40 ZR19 at the front and 255/35 ZR19 at the rear. The fronts are date-coded to 2014, while the rears were manufactured in 2017. All of the tyres have a good level of tread remaining.

The car is accompanied by the complete book pack in the original leather pouch, including owner’s manual, stamped maintenance record, service directory, and all other user guides. There is also a good folder of old invoices and MOT certificates, along with guarantee from Karbonius Composites, and two keys.

The E46-model BMW M3 is one of the defining 'everyman' performance cars of the 2000s, and the CS model benefits from a significant improvement in driving dynamics. Indeed, at its launch, Evo magazine called the CS “the best bits of the CSL for far less money”. This is a rare and coveted modern classic presented in very impressive condition, equally well-suited to being an occasional weekend treat or a high-performance daily driver.

Please note: the cherished plate shown on the car is not included in the sale. It will be switched back to another age-related registration plate in the event of a successful auction.

Summary of maintenance history: