Coupe (2001 to 2006)

Introduced for the 2001 model year, the BMW M3 E46 Coupe is widely considered the definitive modern M3, blending everyday usability with a motorsport-derived engine and timeless proportions. Powered by the legendary S54 3.2-litre naturally aspirated straight-six producing 338 hp, the E46 M3 Coupe was offered with either a 6-speed manual or SMG automated manual, and set new benchmarks for throttle response, balance, and driver engagement. Beyond the standard coupe, BMW produced key sub-variants including the Competition Package (ZCP) and the highly focused M3 CSL, which pushed weight reduction and track capability to extremes. Total E46 M3 production stands at approximately 85,766 cars worldwide, with the coupe accounting for the vast majority, while CSL production was limited to just 1,383 examples. In the Australian market, the E46 M3 Coupe was officially delivered and remains one of the most actively traded and desirable M cars, with values driven by manual transmission preference, originality, mileage, service history, and specification, as collectors increasingly regard it as the peak of BMW M’s naturally aspirated era.