2006 BMW (E46) M3 CS - MANUAL

This BMW M3 CS is a renowned performance coupe, boasting a sought-after specification, and presented in superb condition throughout. Under the bonnet sits a 3.2-litre S54 straight-six engine producing 338bhp, coupled with the exceptionally rare and desirable six-speed manual transmission. The odometer currently indicates 69,097 miles from new.

First registered in April 2006, this M3 C3 has been with its current keeper for the last four and a half years.

There is no evidence of any prior damage to the bodywork, and the vendor reports that there are no dents, scratches or scuffs in the Carbon Black paint finish. There are some stone chips around the front end, but no other blemishes of note. It is currently fitted with lowering springs that sit 10mm below the standard ride height, to give the same stance as the vendor’s CSL, but the original springs are included in the sale. The car rides on the correct 19-inch CSL forged alloy wheels, which are in very good order.

In the cabin, the red leather seat upholstery complements the exterior colour superbly, presenting with just some light age-related creasing to the seat bolsters and bottom panels. The seats are heated and electrically adjustable, while the cabin also benefits from climate control and satellite navigation. The three-spoke suede-trimmed steering wheel and manual gear knob appear with some wear commensurate with the mileage, though the dashboard controls are in great condition and are reported to be in full working order.

The most recent service was undertaken in November 2020 at 68,033 miles, when it received an oil and filter service at BMW specialist Graham Martin Automotive. During this visit, it was also fitted with a new fog lamp, offside rear wheel bearing, power steering hose and nearside front suspension arm, to rectify the MOT advisories from a few weeks earlier. Prior to this, it was serviced in July 2019 and July 2018, with the former including fitment of new front and rear brake pads and discs, new tyres on all corners, and four-wheel alignment.

The most recent MOT test was undertaken on 8 October 2020 at 67,383 miles, which resulted in a pass with three advisories to monitor a cracked nearside fog lamp, some slight play in the nearside front lower suspension arm ball joint and some play in the offside rear wheel bearing – all of which were rectified during the November 2020 service. The wheels come wrapped with Continental tyres all round, which have covered around 8,000 miles, and remain in very good condition.

Accompanying the vehicle are the original handbooks and service book, as well as a box file containing service receipts dating back to 2009. As stated above, the original coil springs are also part of the sale, and will be safely stored in the boot for transport.

This BMW M3 CS is a superb example of the coveted performance hero, presented in strong mechanical condition and with a solid service history. The CS was described by Evo magazine as “the best bits of the CSL for far less money”, and as a very rare right-hand-drive manual car, this particular example would make a discerning choice for any M-car enthusiast. It is undoubtedly a collectible modern classic, and is ready to enjoy on the next owner’s favourite roads.

Summary of maintenance history:

• 26/04/2006 – Pre-delivery check
• 12/05/2006 – 1,120 miles (running-in)
• 29/08/2007 – 11,805 miles (oil service)
• 09/09/2008 – 23,854 miles (Inspection I, microfilter, brake fluid)
• 14/08/2009 – 34,955 miles (oil service)
• 21/03/2011 – 45,623 miles (brake fluid only)
• 02/04/2012 – 48,706 miles (Inspection II, microfilter)
• 26/04/2013 – 52,828 miles (brake fluid only)
• 02/07/2015 – 56,157 miles (brake fluid only)
• 03/03/2016 – 57,071 miles (oil service)
• 09/10/2020 – 67,383 miles (oil service)

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 through HPI checks and MOT history where available. 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. This vehicle shows no insurance database markers for damage or theft, and has no finance owing.