2003 BMW M3 Convertible (E46)

Highlights 

• 343bhp, straight-six engine

• 0-60mph in 5.2seconds

• Rare and desirable model

• Low miles

• Well-presented

Overview

When it comes to BMW's impressive back catalogue there are a number of stand out tracks. The E39 M5, for example, and the beautiful 507 to name just two. But when it comes to excellent engines, rewarding driving dynamics and beautifully understated design, the E46 M3 will always be a highlight and even now, 25 years later, it remains a highly desirable and incredibly capable machine. 

Breaking cover in 2000, the E46 M3 was available as either a coupe or convertible, both being furnished with the brilliant 3.2-litre S54 straight-six engine producing 343bhp, and its an analogue beast in the best possible way - a driver's car through and through. Yes there are numerous buttons for the various controls but mostly it's the driver doing the leg work and the E46 M3 is all the better for it.

From the way the engine delivers its power, to steering feel and road holding ability, BMW got everything right with the E46 M3. It still looks great and the interior still feels special in the way only a top of the range BMW can, proving that less is indeed more when it comes to timeless design.

This particular example is a 2003 convertible with the six-speed SMG-II gearbox with steering wheel-mounted paddles, which many praise for the speed of its shifting. Having covered under 70K miles it's still a spring chicken and with full service history according to the vendor it has clearly been cherished and meticulously maintained throughout its two-owner life.

Presented in a stunning shade of Mystic Blue with black roof and black Nappa leather interior the car looks amazing. Reportedly in fine mechanical condition it looks to be an excellent example of one of BMW M's best ultimate driving machines.

History and documentation

• 2003 model year

• V5C present and correct

• First registered 15 Jun 2003

• In current ownership since 2003

• Two owners from new (first registered by a main BMW dealer in June 2003 and purchased by the current vendor in September 2003)

• Original book pack

• Numerous old MOT certificates

• Advisory-free MOT until 25 Oct 2025

• HPI clear

• 69,390 miles

Interior

• The interior generally presents incredibly well throughout

• No signs of any damage

• Minimal wear and tear to the usual high wear areas such as the seat bolsters

• The vendor states that everything is in working order

• No apparent pixel issues with the dash displays

• There is a small blemish to the gear knob fascia surround 

• There is a noticeable mark to the bottom spoke of the steering wheel

• The carpets and door cards look to be in fine condition

• Heated and electrically adjustable front sports seats

• Harman Kardon sound system

• Electric folding mirrors

• Park distance control

• Air conditioning

• The boot space is clean and tidy

• The engine bay is well-presented

Exterior

• The Mystic Blue paintwork looks to be in fine order

• The body panels appear to be free from damage and have straight gaps 

• There are some light chips to the driver's side door edge

• No obvious signs of corrosion

• The black fabric roof presents well and seems to fit as it should; the vendor states that it does not currently open or close

• All glasswork is free from damage

• The factory 19” alloy wheels are in good condition and look to be free from any damage

• Tyres are all Continental Sport Contact 7s apart from the offside right rear which is a Falken Azenis

• The underside appears to be in great condition 

Mechanical

• 343bhp, 3.2-litre straight-six engine

• Six-speed SMG-II automated manual gearbox

• Rear-wheel drive

• 0-60mph in 5.2seconds

• 155mph top speed (limited)

• No mechanical issues to report

Summary

The thought of cutting about in a convertible M3 is a perennially alluring one and this E46 SMG can easily make that dream a reality. Apparently in rude health and in great condition it's a low mileage example that still has many, many more miles left in the tank. A proper driver's car that is versatile enough to enjoy in all conditions – whether that be a cheeky track day or a summer jaunt to St Tropez with the top down – this E46 M3 convertible makes a lot of sense.

To arrange a viewing, click the 'Book Viewing' button located under the 'Place Bid' button. Viewings can be booked up until the day before the auction ends, after which the option will change to 'Contact Seller' for further enquiries. This seller is located in London.