Value of classic BMW M3 cars continue to go up. From the E30 to the E36 M3, all these models are now commending a pretty penny. But what about the E46 M3 generation? Is that turning into a future classic? If we were to judge by recent sale prices, yes. Take for example this pristine 2003 E46 M3 painted in the iconic Laguna Seca Blue color which just sold on a Bring-a-Trailer for $90,000.
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Showing just over 16,000 miles, this 6-speed E46 includes lots of modifications – OEM CSL exterior components, Brembo brakes, JRZ RS1 coilovers, adjustable sway bars, 19” RAC RG4 wheels, Recaro Sportster CS seats, a Beisan Systems VANOS unit, and Turner Motorsports subframe reinforcements. Additional exterior mods include a European-spec front bumper and brake ducts.
A BMW Inspection II was reportedly conducted at 14k miles in 2017, and the car was acquired by the seller in early 2019.
The interior features are pair of leather-trimmed Recaro Sportster CS seats with heaters linked to the factory switchgear. Other upgrades include an AutoSolutions short shift kit and CSL door panels, which feature carbon fiber inserts covered in clear protective film.
But it’s truly the engine that makes the E46 M3 a special car. The E46 M3 came with a 3.2 liter inline-six engine developing 333 hp and 262 lb-ft of torque. It could hit 0-60 in 5.1 seconds and had an electronically controlled top speed of 155 mph. The I6 in the E46 M3 is one of the better one’s BMW ever made. With its Double VANOS variable valve timing and 7,900 rpm redline, the 3.2 liter screams through the rev range with smooth and linear power.
It also makes a fantastic sound doing it.
