2002 BMW M3 E46 Coupe

This manual-converted E46-generation BMW M3 is a desirably specified example of the lauded modern classic performance hero, offered with a solid maintenance history and benefitting from significant recent mechanical maintenance. Under the bonnet sits a naturally aspirated 3.2-litre ‘S54’ straight-six, which sends its power to the rear wheels via a retrofitted six-speed manual transmission. This original Australia-delivered model was first registered in August 2002, and is reported to have been with the seller and fourth owner for one year. The odometer shows 140,426 Kms, however this is noted not to be correct, and the car’s true mileage is believed to be around 200,000 kms. The common foibles which affect the E46-generation M3 were addressed in 2022 at around an indicated 140,000 Kms, including the VANOS system being rebuilt, a full engine inspection with the fitment of new rod bearings and associated items, a rear subframe and floor inspection, and the installation of floor reinforcements. This M3 is finished in the desirable and lesser-seen shade of Laguna Seca Blue over a black leather-trimmed interior, featuring embossed ‘M’ emblems on the front headrests and Titan Shadow trim. It rides on a set of 19-inch ‘Style 67M’ double-spoke diamond-cut alloy wheels, framing red brake callipers and fitted with Nankang Sportnex AR-1 tyres. Equipment includes xenon headlights, rear parking sensors, cruise control, a media system, switchable sport mode, Dynamic Stability Control, automatic air conditioning, an electric sunroof, a Harman/Kardon sound system, and electrically adjustable front seats with three-position driver memory. This example was originally specified with the semi-automatic SMG transmission, though this was converted to an H-pattern six-speed manual gearbox in 2022. This M3 has also been upgraded with adjustable coilover suspension, a front strut brace, and an ECU tune to slightly increase power and torque, whilst increasing the redline from 8,000rpm to 8,500rpm. The car comes with tools, the stamped service booklet, all the owner’s manuals with a black leather wallet, and maintenance invoices for the recent major mechanical work. The seller notes a very light rear-end impact in 2022, which resulted in cosmetic damage, and required the rear bumper, rear valance, taillights, and boot lid being replaced, as well as the rear portion of the car being resprayed. The work was carried out by M Body Works in Yandina Queensland. Please refer to the photo gallery to assess the exterior and interior condition. Specific notes from the seller include: age-related wear on the seats, and scuffs on the trim. The seller notes that the buttons on the infotainment system no longer work, however the unit can still be controlled by the buttons on the steering wheel. The car’s last REGO test was conducted on 4 February 2024, which is understood to have resulted in a clean pass with no advisories. This M3’s most recent routine maintenance was carried out in February 2024 at an indicated 140,300 Kms by Rene Street Motors, which consisted of an engine oil and filter change, and a mechanical and bodywork inspection. Prior to this, an engine oil and filter change were performed in October 2022 at an indicated 139,800 Kms by Rene Street Motors, which also included mechanical and bodywork inspections, and a new microfilter being fitted. Another engine oil and filter change, as well as mechanical and bodywork inspections were carried out in April 2021 at an indicated 138,575 Kms by Rene Street Motors. Technicians at Rene Street Motors carried out major maintenance in October 2022 at around an indicated 140,000 Kms, which included the VANOS system being rebuilt with all new seals and O-rings, rod bearing maintenance, including a full engine inspection, new rod bearings and associated items, and the rear subframe and floor being inspected, alongside the installation/welding of floor reinforcements. Aug 2002, PDI at Dib Stillwell BMW Classic Jan 2003, 1,286 Kms at Dib Stillwell BMW Classic Feb 2004 at Dib Stillwell BMW Classic Aug 2005 at Dib Stillwell BMW Classic May 2006, 29,668 Kms at Dib Stillwell BMW Classic Feb 2007, 36,554 Kms at Dib Stillwell BMW Classic Nov 2007, 44,159 Kms at Dib Stillwell BMW Classic Dec 2008, 52,114 Kms at Steves Automotive Services Oct 2009, 59,671 Kms at Steves Automotive Services Apr 2010, 65,014 Kms at Steves Automotive Services Jan 2011, 70,818 Kms at Steves Automotive Services Sep 2011, 80,150 Kms at Canterbury BMW Jul 2012, 90,906 Kms at Canterbury BMW Oct 2013, 100,896 Kms at A Plus Automotive Sep 2014, 111,011 Kms at A Plus Automotive Dec 2015, 120,002 Kms at A Plus Automotive Dec 2016, 130,000 Kms at Rene Street Motors Mar 2019, 135,000 Kms at Rene Street Motors Mar 2020, 137,250 Kms at Rene Street Motors Apr 2021, 138,757 Kms at Rene Street Motors Oct 2022, 139,800 Kms at Rene Street Motors Feb 2024, 140,300 Kms at Rene Street Motors This E46-generation BMW M3 is a well-cared for example of the coveted modern classic performance hero, offered with a solid maintenance history and benefitting from significant recent mechanical maintenance. Presented with a lesser-seen Laguna Seca Blue finish, handsome styling, and boasting a lauded straight-six engine coupled to a retrofitted six-speed manual gearbox, it would make a highly rewarding companion for rapid daily driving, weekend fun, and car show visits alike. The description of this consignment 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, potential buyers must independently satisfy themselves as to the accuracy of the description. Potential buyers should view or arrange inspections as well as conduct any research they feel is necessary before committing to bid or buy. Please note that it is not uncommon for classic or collectible vehicles to have received cosmetic repairs in the past, either to rectify damage or refresh appearance, and this work may be undetectable even upon visual inspection. Unless there is an explicit statement by the seller to the contrary, please assume that any vehicle could have had bodywork or paintwork during its life. Furthermore, photographs may not reflect the true colour or full condition of the vehicle. It is a bidder’s responsibility to satisfy themselves of the colour and condition of a vehicle, including its interior and the existence of any remedial bodywork or paintwork, before committing to bid or buy. This includes by raising enquiries with the seller in the comments section. For vehicles, unless otherwise stated, potential buyers should also assume that any cherished registration may be retained by the seller. 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.