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2006 BMW (E46) M3 CS SMG

This 2006 BMW M3 CS is a superb example of one of the most sought-after M-car models ever built. At its launch, Evo magazine called the CS “the best bits of the CSL for far less money.” It is powered by the same 338bhp 3.2-litre S54 straight-six engine as the standard M3, with rear-wheel drive, and in this car via the six-speed Sequential Manual Gearbox (SMG) with paddle-shift selectors. The odometer shows just 40,348 miles from new, which is fully evidenced by the service and MOT history.

Completed in February 2006, this M3’s VIN record confirms it was equipped with the ‘Competition Package’ (code S7MA) from the factory. The CS model benefitted from the M3 CSL’s tighter steering rack, uprated brakes and M Track mode button. It also featured CSL-style lightweight alloys, as well as various Alcantara trims and aluminium accents around the interior.

Around 250 examples are understood to have been produced for the UK market, making it an exceptionally rare version of the E46 model. It has been owned by the vendor for just over two years, who has enjoyed some 2,000 miles on the road.

This car’s Carbon Black metallic paintwork remains in very good condition. There are light stone chips to the front and ahead of the rear wheels, but the finish is generally in superb order as can be appreciated by the full set of photos. There are noticeable kerbing marks on both offside wheels, and a couple of smaller nicks in the nearside rear wheel, but otherwise the 19-inch alloys present well.

The cabin is in great shape, upholstered in black Nappa leather throughout. The only blemish noted by the vendor is some minor wear on the driver’s seat bolster, which could be inexpensively re-connolised should the next owner desire. The anthracite cloth headlining is in very good order, as is the rest of the interior trim around the dashboard and doors.

Its seats are electrically adjustable with variable lumbar and bolster support, and feature three-stage heating as well as memory settings for the driver. The steering wheel, handbrake lever and metal SMG gear shift lever are all trimmed in Alcantara, which remains in good condition. The glass sunroof is electrically operated, and works perfectly.

Factory-fitted equipment includes xenon headlights, climate control, rear parking sensors and the BMW Professional media system with satellite navigation and a six-disc CD changer. At the back of the car, the light grey boot lining is in superb order, and lifting up the lower cover panel reveals the boot floor is in excellent condition.

Lifting the bonnet reveals an engine bay that is clean, tidy and unmodified. In fact, the only deviation from factory specification on the car is a full Supersprint performance exhaust system. The most recent scheduled maintenance was carried out by BMW Wandsworth, which comprised a standard service along with an inspection of the valve clearances.

Its last MOT test was on 12 July 2019 at 40,168 miles, which resulted in a clean pass with no advisories. The wheels are shod in Michelin Pilot Sport 225/40 ZR19 tyres in size at the front, and Pirelli P Zero Rosso 255/35 ZR19 at the rear, all of which have a good level of tread remaining.

The car is accompanied by all of the original literature, including owner’s handbook, service directory and the stamped maintenance record. The original accessories are also present, including the complete OEM toolkit.

This BMW M3 CS is a thrilling performance car, which benefits from dynamics more on par with the CSL model, but without the high price tag. Compared to the standard M3, Evo magazine reported that “the CS has tangible gains in feel and agility and quickly gives you confidence to use all of its potential.” A rare and highly collectable modern classic that is ready to be relished as a fun weekend car, or even as an exciting daily driver for a low-mileage commute.

Summary of maintenance history: