This 2002 BMW (E46) M3 is an Australian-delivered car in all-original condition, complete with just two owners from new and the all-important manual transmission. Under the bonnet lies a naturally-aspirated 3.2-litre inline-six-cylinder S54 engine which outputs 252kW/365Nm. This power is sent to the rear wheels through a six-speed manual transmission. The odometer of the car currently states 173,904km. The BMW E46 M3 launched locally in June 2001 to almost instantaneous critical acclaim. Following on from the legendary E30 M3 and the subsequent E36 M3, the E46 M3 achieved newfound levels of everyday driveability while still being able to carve up a backroad like a dedicated sports car.

Arguably its greatest asset is the S54 inline-six engine which sings sonorously right up to redline and delivers a powerful 252kW at 7900rpm. Along with the E46’s arrival BMW created a new SMG (Sequential Manual Gearbox) transmission which earned praise for its innovation, but the gearbox is now derided universally for its slow shift speeds and clunky operation. That’s why manual examples are so valuable on the used market and why this example represents a prime opportunity to buy a high point of the BMW M3 timeline. Finished in Steel Grey metallic over a grey leather interior, this M3’s colour combination is widely appreciated and continues to look smart today. Notably, the seller maintains there are no aftermarket modifications to this car and it presents in original specification. From factory it was fitted with a Harman Kardon sound system, sunroof, and six-disc CD changer.

The car rides on a set of 19-inch M alloy wheels wrapped in Yokohama Advan Sport tyres. This E46 M3 was manufactured in Munich, Germany in July 2002 and complied in Australia in September 2002. It is now a two-owner car overall. The current owner purchased the vehicle from the original owner in 2009. Services have been completed every 12 months or 5,000km. Preventative maintenance in 2017 addressed the infamous E46 subframe issue, refurbished Vanos system, and rod bearings were replaced.

The last service was completed in January 2023 where the A/C was regassed, spark plugs were replaced, and new air, fuel, and cabin filters were fitted. Exterior presentation of this E46 M3 shows in good order throughout, though some finer points of wear and tear are obvious. The grey metallic paintwork shines brightly in the sunlight and reflections are clean. However, heavy stone chip damage is seen on the front end (including bonnet) and significant scraping is seen underside the bumper. Some scratches are seen on the rear bumper. Wheels show without kerb rash damage, though the rear right has a minor chip.

Inside the cabin this M3 appears without major wear and tear. The grey leather upholstery shows no scuffs or tears, while there’s no creasing in bolsters either. Carpeting is beginning to show fade and stains consistent with use, though there’s minimal scuff damage. The headlining contains no obvious stains. Points of wear are seen around the door grips. This car will come with all accompanying documentation and service booklets, plus two keys.

As per Trading Garage’s Terms and Conditions, although Trading Garage have completed the following checks, bidders must satisfy themselves to the accuracy of the description and do any research, they feel necessary before bidding. All listings are sold in Australian dollars. This vehicle is currently registered in NSW until 12/09/2024. There are no security interests registered on the PPSR against the serial number and it is not recorded as written off or stolen.