The E46 M3 is a automotive that wants no introduction. Probably doubly so for those who’re shopping BMWBLOG. We’ve written at size in regards to the automotive, however we definitely aren’t the one ones. The automotive’s pure stability, engaging styling, communicative dealing with, and iconic S54 engine have made it a success since its debut in 2001. Discovering the appropriate one will be troublesome; however, within the final week, a number of fascinating examples have come up for public sale on Carry a Trailer. Should you’re searching for the perfect of the perfect, the time to behave is likely to be now. This Carbon Black over black Competitors Package deal M3 checks all of the packing containers.
12K Miles, ZCP; What Extra Do You Want?
Even in a world the place we see fairly well-kept E46s popping up on public sale websites with a point of frequency, this M3 stands out. It has solely traveled 12,000 miles since its unique proprietor snagged it in Ontario. The automotive got here stateside in 2017, buying and selling arms between Eric Keller (EAG founder) and German automotive fanatics Turtle Storage. The vendor notes that regardless of the automotive’s nine-owner Carfax report, the final proprietor owned it two occasions and has ostensibly solely had 4 house owners.
The historical past is good, however what actually counts is how this factor feels from the driving force’s seat. Specified from the manufacturing facility with the Competitors Package deal (choice code ZCP) means this automotive will get a bunch of upgrades lifted from the Europe-only M3 CSL. Cross-drilled brake rotors, iconic Model 163M wheels, a faster steering ratio, a particular stability management mode, and an Alcantara-wrapped steering wheel all improved on an already glorious driving expertise. Solely 2,410 ZCP-equipped E46 M3s ever made it to North America.
Want a refresh on why everybody loves the E46 M3? Underneath the hood sits an inline-six engine (S54) sits, producing 333 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque. A far cry from the torque monster machines we see rolling off the M meeting strains right this moment. A Getrag six-speed handbook field powers the rear wheels by a limited-slip differential. Outdated-school hydraulic steering, a comparatively gentle curb weight, and lovely aesthetics give the E46 M3 “complete bundle” vibes. Watch the public sale for this automotive right here on Carry a Trailer.
What Else Awaits and What You May Have Missed
Not feeling black on black? Go for the precise reverse with this Alpine White/Gray 2004 M3. It’s nonetheless a facelift mannequin and has low miles – simply 23,000. Though it sadly lacks the Competitors Package deal, it nonetheless wears actual 163M wheels. Though Gray isn’t most individuals’s first selection of inside upholstery, Alpine White is a fairly unusual and fascinating colour on the E46 M3. The public sale ends December 19th.
We’d be remiss if we didn’t point out the Laguna Seca Blue over Anthracite Impulse Fabric automotive that BMW specialists Fanatic Auto Group offered simply earlier within the week. This exceedingly uncommon spec commanded a powerful $81,500 – excess of we’d anticipate to see both aforementioned automotive transact for. For a lot of, the colour, historical past with EAG, and fascinating (gentle) modifications doubtless make it the definitive E46 M3. You may view that public sale right here.
Should you’re searching for that excellent Christmas present, I’m not choosy. [Image provided by Bring-a-Trailer]