This E46-generation BMW 323i Sport is a distinctive example of the marque’s handsome modern classic sports saloon, offered with a single owner from new, and boasting a desirable Individual factory specification. Under the bonnet sits a naturally aspirated 2.5-litre ‘M52/TU’ straight-six, producing around 170bhp and driving the rear wheels via a five-speed manual transmission. This 323i Sport was originally a special order placed by the former CEO of the Australian Racing Drivers’ Club to transport race industry VIPs to and from the SMSP Eastern Creek International Raceway and Mt Panorama Bathurst circuits, which was built-to-order on the M-production line in Germany. This Australia-delivered model has been cherished from new by a single owner, and the odometer shows 235,205 Kms. This 323i was specified with M Sports Package, which included M Aerodynamics body styling, M Sport suspension, sports seats, wider 18-inch alloy wheels, Dynamic Stability Control, and an M Sports multifunctional steering wheel. This example was specified in the timeless shade of Cosmos Black Metallic over a distinctive BMW Individual Arizona Sun Alcantara-trimmed interior, featuring a contrasting black dashboard, centre console, door card sections, and carpets, as well as the ‘carbon cube’ trim accents. It rides on the correct set of 18-inch multi-spoke alloy wheels, shod in M Sport recommended front and rear tyre sizes. The desirable factory specification headlamp washers, rear parking sensors, cruise control, an electric glass sunroof, electric windows, automatic climate control, electrically adjustable heated front seats with three-position driver memory, a BMW Navigation media system with satellite navigation and CD multichanger, electrically adjustable door mirrors, and xenon headlights. The car will be accompanied by a nearly complete toolkit, a warning triangle, a jack, a spare wheel, all of the original owner’s manuals with a black leather wallet, two keys, a stamped service booklet, two sales brochures, the delivery documents, all the correspondence related to the initial order, and the specification list with an original cost breakdown for this $98,000 BMW Individual model. The original Cosmos Black Metallic paintwork is reported to be in good overall condition, though the seller notes minor stone chips on the bonnet and front bumper. There are also scuffs on the lower front bumper, a small dent on the leading edge of bonnet, a scuff on the rear bumper, scuffs on the nearside front wheel arch, and various other blemishes, scratches and imperfections around the car, which are documented in detail in the photo gallery. Inside, the cabin is presented in generally good shape given the car’s age and usage, though there is wear on the gear knob, heavy wear and discolouration on the driver seat bolsters and base, mild wear on the passenger seat bolster, minor blemishes on the passenger seat base, discolouration on the driver’s door card, tape over the passenger-side centre console window controls, and a few other minor scuffs and blemishes around the trim. The seller notes that when cold the gearbox can be stiff going into fifth gear, there is also a fault with the left rear window, an oil level light occasionally sticks on briefly, and the battery goes flat if not in frequent use. This 323i Sport’s most recent general mechanical inspection was carried out in November 2021 at 235,004 Kms by WRW Automotive, which included the engine and gearbox oils being changed, fluid level, air filter, brakes, lights and tyre wear inspected. Other notable maintenance includes the steering angle sensor being replaced, the driver’s window winding mechanism repaired, new front suspension bushes, an engine fan, and new shock absorbers. 28 Mar 2000, PDI at Autohaus Classic BMW 30 Apr 2001, 26,484 Kms at Autohaus Classic BMW 25 Jun 2002, 53,179 Kms at Autohaus Classic BMW 26 Oct 2004, 81,314 Kms at Autohaus Classic BMW 19 Aug 2008, 128,861 Kms at Trivett Classic BMW 8 Jan 2011, 179,858 Kms at WRW Automotive Repairs 213,469 Kms at BWA Auto PTY Limited 28 Mar 2017, 222,433 Kms at BWA Auto PTY Limited 16 Nov 2021, 235,004 Kms at WRW Automotive Repairs This E46-era BMW 323i Sport is a presentable and generously specified example of the ever-popular modern classic sports saloon, offered with a single owner from new, and boasting a desirable factory specification. Specially ordered and built on BMW’s ‘M’ production line in Germany, it would make a smart addition to any assembly of modern classics, and an engaging companion for daily driving, weekend journeys, and long-distance road trips alike. The description of this auction lot is, to the best of the seller's knowledge, accurate and not misleading. Collecting Cars requests a range of detail about the lot from the seller, and performs a level of due diligence. However, bidders must satisfy themselves as to the accuracy of the description, and conduct any research they feel is necessary before committing to a bid. Please see our Terms and Conditions for full details. This vehicle’s VIN has been checked against the Australian Personal Property Securities Register, and there is no security interest or other registration kind logged against the serial number. This vehicle has been checked through the Austroads NEVDIS system, and there are no markers under the written-off or stolen databases.