2005 BMW M3

Every enthusiast has their favorite variant of the BMW M3- for some, it is the original E30, whereas for others, the newest G80 is their preferred vehicle. However, one thing most BMW lovers can agree on is that the E46 is a high point out of the marque’s six generations. Debuting in 2000, the E46 M3 hit in the perfect sweet spot in the automotive world, where technology had gotten to a point where cars were reliable and fast, but overbearing driver’s aids had yet to become commonplace. With a motorsport-derived inline-6, 51/49 weight distribution, and fully defeat-able traction and stability control, the E46 M3 is one of the most sublime sports coupes from behind the wheel and will go down in history as one of BMW’s best products.

This 2005 BMW M3 is one of the most desirable specifications for this already special car. Finished in Alpine White III over a Cinnamon leather interior, this car was fitted from the factory with the desirable Competition Package and shows just 29,000 miles at the time of cataloging. No stranger to us at EAG, this M3 is on its fourth trip through our shop and is coming out of the collection of a great customer in the greater Minneapolis area. Our first experience with this car was in 2015, at which time it had about 23,000 miles and had clearly been well-loved as we didn’t need to do much to bring it up to EAG standards. Over the next 9 years, that trend has maintained, with each respective owner loving and enjoying the car and returning it to us in nearly sale-worth condition. As a factory Competition Pack car, this M3 is fitted with the desirable 19” Competition wheels and the slightly lower suspension, which gives the car a perfect stance and makes it just that little bit more responsive in fast driving. Additionally, numerous period-correct Dinan modifications were added, many of which are no longer available.

The interior of this M3 may be the most exciting part. There are a few BMW interior colors that get enthusiasts excited, and Cinnamon on the E46 may be at the top of that list. A deep, almost orangey tan, this rich leather was rarely selected in the period, but it looks absolutely stunning today. This leather is paired with a brushed aluminum finish on the dash and door cards, which provides great contrast and is in keeping with the sporty look. With the Competition Package, the standard multi-function steering wheel is replaced with an Alcantara-wrapped unit that features just one button on the right spoke to put the car into Sport mode. The interior is almost entirely stock but, to match the Alcantara steering wheel, both the shift boot and e-break handle have been wrapped in the material. Also, a weighted ZHP shift knob was installed- this shift knob from the limited-run E46 330i ZHP has become famous in BMW circles for its added weight and perfect feel in the palm of your hand.

Undoubtedly, the S54 found in the E46 M3 is one of the best inline-6s ever produced by BMW. With dual overhead cams, individual throttle bodies, and VANOS on the intake and exhaust cams, the S54 feels like a proper motorsport engine in the high revs, but that maintains the ability to be happily used around town as well. The Dinan modifications really took place mechancially, with the addition of a freer flowing exhaust, as well as a cold air intake with a corresponding air flow meter and software to match. This car isn’t a full-blown Dinan build but features some of the more desirable parts that enhance the character of the E46 M3, rather than change it entirely. This is the paired with a solid-feeling 6-speed manual gearbox, which offers great shift action and is really the ultimate way to enjoy the sublime powerplant. While under our care, we performed our standard list of checks, including inspecting the VANOS, rear subframe, and multi-point mechanical inspection during the course of carrying out a II Service.

For us at EAG, the E46 M3 feels the most like the successor to the first E30, with its e