2003 BMW M3

The BMW E46 M3 is a true weekend warrior. A machine capable of thrashing around Thruxton on Sunday and be back in the office on Monday. This M3 is a prime example of just how much more this platform still has to give.

At the heart of the M3, the now legendary S54 engine. An in-line 6-cylinder, 24 valve, 3,246 CC, twin cam with double VANOS and managed by a sophisticated Siemens engine management system, making it possible to achieve 343 bhp and 365 N.m of torque whilst returning over 30 mpg of cruising range. This clever power plant is the key to M3’s Jekyll & Hyde personality.

Due to the extraordinary day to day usability of these M3’s, it is now extremely hard to find low mileage, well cared for examples. Most saw many winters of daily driving on our salted roads causing corrosion to take hold. Many fell into the wrong hands, saw endless modifications for track use and lacked the proper maintenance that they deserved.

Although capable from the get go, this E46 M3 has seen modest improvements in the form of Ohlins adjustable coilovers. The M3 retains that sporty handling and comfort, whilst reducing body-roll and allowing absolute customisation of the chassis to suit both driver and environment.

The current owner opted for high performance AP Racing brake calipers and a Supersprint exhaust system for a more visceral experience, as let’s be honest, the Supersprint sounds fantastic when paired to the S54 straight-six.

The show stealer with this M3 is of course the selection of CSL additions. Genuine 19" CSL alloy wheels and Karbonius Carbon Air Box. These high quality units are manufactured by hand in Spain to the highest standards, increasing both engine performance and amplifying induction noise.

In 2023 we completed a course of work to further guarantee reliability on this already fantastic M3. Both poly belts were replaced along with a refresh of the power steering system, rear differential seals and fluid.

At the new owner’s request after his purchase in 2024, we carried out the all-important Hero Motor Company protection program. Along with installing reinforcement plates to the rear subframe mounts, the underside of the car was thoroughly washed, inspected and then clear cavity wax applied to the shell and cavities. The M3 was then thoroughly scrutinised to rectify any small issues we found, a complete programme of work totalling over £12,000.

This E46 M3 has been maintained at Hero Motor Company for several years, first with the previous owner, now with a good friend who instructed that we build the car to its current spec. A professional racing driver by day, the customer is now offering the car for sale to fund the purchase of a Ginetta Team Car

Before handover to the new owner, the car will pass through the workshop for PDI, final checks, repainting the front bumper and a new MOT.

With the car is a very thorough document file, spare keys, tools, original service wallet containing all manuals, handbooks and fully stamped service book.

Our client tasked us with building an E46 M3 for the modern driver. We had many discussions with the client about what the E46 M3 would look and feel like if BMW built it today. A careful balance of subtle styling, everyday usability and performance suitable for the real world. We're immensely proud of what we have created.

Full Specification:

Date of Production: 09/01/2003

Date of Registration: 01/03/2003

Engine: 3246cc

Previous Owners: 5

Mileage: 64,200 miles

Full Service History

6-Speed Manual

Exterior Colour: Carbon Schwarz Metallic

Red Walknappa Leather

AP Racing 6-Pot Brake Kit

Karbonius CSL Carbon Air Box

19" M3 CSL Alloy Wheels

Ohlins Adjustable Coilovers

Supersprint Exhaust System

AC Schnitzer Alloy Pedal Set

Air-Conditioning

Electric Door Mirrors

Shortshift Gear Selector Kit

Harman Kardon Audio System

Front Electric Windows

Front Fog Lights

Electric Front Seat Adjustment

Auto-Dip Rearview Mirror

M Sport Steering Wheel

Side Turn Signals White

Centre Armrest

Headrests Mechanically Adjustable

Headlight Washer System

Anthracite Headlining

Rear Sunblind

Smoker Package

Rain Sensor

Xenon Lights

BMW Satellite Navigation

6-CD Changer

Watch Our Feature Film On This E46 M3 on YouTube