A Dutch delivered E46 M3 Cabriolet in Carbonschwarz with Cognac interior with full service history. Full stop.
In fact, the first sentence should be enough to give a complete recommendation for this four-seater convertible. Of all the recent 3-Series models, the E46 resembles the original the most. That is probably why this model has the best chance of becoming a future classic. It is a model that was still designed with a ruler and a pencil. From whichever side you look at the car, no one will doubt that it is a BMW.
The connoisseur recognises this car immediately as an M3, a glance at the small grilles on the front wings says it all. At the back, the four exhaust pipes indicate the special six-in-line that is found under the bonnet. Although this is one of the most subtle versions of the M3, it is still a special car. And perhaps for that very reason. Compare it to its contemporary, the Mercedes-Benz CLK 63 AMG or the current version of the M3 and you'll immediately see why.
The award-winning (several years, in several countries 'Engine of the Year') three-litre six-in-line (S54) of this M3 Cabriolet is coupled to the rear wheels via the SMG-II gearbox. When the E46 M3 came on the market, this was the fastest shifting robotised gearbox on the market.
This M3 was delivered new by BMW dealer Kalfsbeek in 2002 in Carbon black, with cognac colored leather upholstery and the original wheels. Rod bearings and VANOS were replaced and overhauled in recent years and the full service history including invoices are present.
Our opinion
This is a BMW as tradition dictates: six-in-line, lots of power, rear-wheel drive and not too big or too heavy. With a fabric convertible roof, which in our eyes is still the most beautiful design for a convertible. Add to this the fact that this is an unmodified model, which is becoming increasingly rare for older M3s.
The colour Carbonschwarz gets a bluish glow in the sun, which is perfect for a convertible. The E46 M3 is starting to become an appreciated modern classic.
Equipment
This car is factory equipped with, among other things:
None, besides a Nokia carkit this E46 M3 is still in its original condition.
Remarks
This M is in very good overall condition. There are signs of use, belonging to a car of 20 years old and shown on the photos:
Light stone chipping at the front
In 2010, during a holiday in Italy, an Italian lady in her Yaris came down the mountain a little too enthusiastically and (under)steered her Yaris into the flank of the M3. This damage was professionally addressed by BMW dealer Kalfsbeek (see extensive documentation in the invoices). The chassis was not damaged and the airbags did not deploy. The damage report and photos of the incident are available on request.
Service history
The first owner had all maintenance done by BMW dealer Kalfsbeek. The current owner switched the maintenance to First Stop Flakkee, because the owner of that company is an E46 M3 specialist. The most important points of the recent maintenance history are:
MOT - 30 May 2022
Major service, MOT inspection, changing filters and oil - May 2021 - € 1.738,01
Major maintenance, including rod bearings - May 2020 - € 3,796.73
VANOS replaced - 2020
See photos for the complete maintenance history with invoices.
Included with sale
Two keys
Hardtop
Hardtop trolley
BMW cover
About the seller
An M3 was also high on Frank's 'to have at some point in the future' list. In 2010, he found this car, which came from the first owner. Since then he has driven about 55,000 kilometres with it, but now it is time for him to change the owner.
Frank is facing retirement, and a relocation to a foreign country. As a true car enthusiast, he still has a few cars left in his collection, including a 1981 Triumph Spitfire TC 1500, an Abarth 595 La Pista and a BMW M140i for more everyday driving.
Frank is quoted on his E46 M3 Cabriolet: 'A unique car and a unique experience. A car you never get tired of. The lines of the car are so stylish and recognisable that the enthusiasts (even in Italy) give you the thumbs up when you drive by'.
Summary
Seller - Frank Sellertype - Private Location - Barendrecht VIN - WBSBR91000EX11520 Registrationnumber - 76-JK-FV Year/date of production - 2002 Firstregistration - 07-05-2002 Mileage - 139.594 Verifiable - Yes, NAP and invoices Warranty - No Body type - Cabriolet Engine - 3,246 cm3 six cylinder Lay-out - Rear wheels Transmission - 6 speed SMG-II Exteriorcolour - Carbon black Interiorcolour - Cognac brown Upholstery - Leather Smoker'scar - No Owners - Two In possession since - 2010 Tyres - Michelin Super Sport 6,5mm - 2020
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