Cars

Introduced in 2000 and marketed from 2001, the E46-generation BMW M3 is today considered one of the most accomplished M3s ever produced. Developed by the BMW M division, it embodies the perfect balance between pure sportiness and everyday road use. Under its hood sits the famous atmospheric S54 in-line six-cylinder, a high-revving 3.2-liter engine developing 343 hp at 7,900 rpm and 365 Nm of torque, capable of taking the car from 0 to 100 km/h in around 5.2 seconds. Its characteristic metallic sound and ability to climb to over 8,000 rpm have largely contributed to this model’s reputation among enthusiasts.

The M3 E46 also boasts an extremely precise chassis, with specific running gear, an M self-locking differential, weight distribution close to 50/50 and direct steering. All this is complemented by a body subtly enlarged in comparison with the classic 3 Series, with domed fenders, aluminum hood with central bossing and the four tailpipes that have become emblematic of M models.

This 2001 model is of particular interest as it is equipped with the six-speed manual gearbox, which has become relatively rare today, compared to the many M3 E46s delivered with the SMG II sequential transmission. The manual gearbox enhances the driving experience and is a much sought-after choice for purists.

The car has a total mileage of 180,000 km, and a track record with service invoices. It was delivered new to the Netherlands, and later to Belgium. Over the course of its life, it has benefited from a number of improvements inspired by the M3 CSL, the most radical version in the range: engine optimization, changes to the running gear and the fitting of special wheels, enhancing both driving precision and the car’s sporty character.

Thanks to these evolutions and its documented maintenance, this M3 E46 retains all the essence of the model’s charm: an analog, precise and extremely engaging sports car, today considered one of the last great atmospheric BMW M’s of the modern era.

Latest work :

December 2019
Parts order for complete overhaul of the VANOS S54 system, including Beisan Systems overhaul kit, seal kit, anti-rattle kit and upgraded components (chain guide and oil pump sprocket). Various original BMW parts also purchased.

March 2020
Engine maintenance: oil sump gasket, engine mounts and oil filter.

April 2020 – 167,096 km
Major mechanical work at The Engineer’s Garage:
Preventive replacement of connecting-rod bearings, lower-engine check and oil pump update. Several seals in the oil circuit are replaced, and the engine is reassembled with new oil.

June 2020
Replacement of lighting with Philips D2S Xenon bulbs.

October 2020 – 170,509 km
Reinforcement work on the rear undercarriage (subframe ), with dismantling of the rear undercarriage, welding of reinforcement plates and complete reassembly, a classic reliability operation on M3 E46s.

Vehicle data : Production date: 12/14/2000

Type: M3

Series: E46 (M series)

Body type: Coupé

Driving: Left-hand drive

Engine: S54

Displacement: 3.2

Power: 252 kW / 343 hp

Transmission: rear-wheel drive

Color: Carbon-schwarz (416)

Upholstery: Walknappa leather/black (N5SW)

Editions and packs

S710: M multifunction sports steering wheel

S785: white indicators

Interior equipment and comfort

S459: electric seat adjustment with memory

S473: front armrest

S428: warning triangle and first aid kit

S431: interior mirror with auto-dimming function

S434: Aluminum interior surfaces

S494: Heated driver/passenger front seats

Multimedia

S640: Preparation for universal telephone installation

S676 : HiFi speaker system

S609 : Professional navigation system

S672: 6-CD changer

Driving assistance and lighting

S520: Fog lights

S522: Xenon headlights

S550 : On-board computer

S548: Odometer

S502: Headlight cleaning system

S534 : Automatic air conditioning

Wheels and transmission

S210: Dynamic stability control

S249 : Multifunction steering wheel

Environment and safety

S879: On-board documentation, German

S863 : List of dealers in Europe

S851: German language version

S832: Battery in trunk

S326 : Deleted, rear spoiler

S358 : Air-conditioned windscreen

S302: Alarm system

S320 : Deleted, model registration

S801: National version Germany

Individual equipment

S775: Anthracite headliner