2004 BMW M3 (E46) Coupé, Registration no. 47495 (Guernsey, Channel Islands) Chassis no. WBSBL92020JR09412

* Delivered new to Guernsey, CI
* Two owners from new
* Manual transmission
* Circa 27,000 miles from new
* Full BMW service history

There had been expensive, limited edition M-Series models before the M3 but it was the latter's arrival in 1985 that brought BMW Motorsport's premier 'M-Power' performance brand within the reach of less wealthy enthusiasts. The original (E30) four-cylinder M3 resulted from BMW's need for a car suitable for Group A racing, the rules stipulating that 5,000 should be made in the first year of production. First seen at the Paris Salon in 1992, its six-cylinder successor was a very different proposition. Designated 'E36', the new M3 was bigger in every dimension, necessitating a hefty power increase to compensate for the unavoidable increase in weight.
The M3's third iteration arrived in October 2000 following the introduction of the E46 series in 1998. On this occasion though, there would be no saloon version, the new M3 being available only as a Coupé or a Convertible, while the power unit was BMW's 3.2-litre S54-type six-cylinder engine producing 338bhp. There was a choice of two transmissions: a six-speed manual Getrag or SMG (Sequential Manual Gearbox) that used an electro-hydraulically actuated clutch (no clutch pedal) to shift the Getrag's six gears. Shifts were made via the conventional gear lever or alternatively by paddle shifters mounted on the steering wheel, and Road and Track magazine would declare that the 2006 M3 with the SMG transmission was its favourite sports car of all time. To satisfy Germany's vocal road-safety lobby, top speed was limited to 'only' 155mph (250km/h), though it was suggested that, free of restrictions, a maximum of around 170mph (270km/h) would be achievable.
Finished in grey with black leather interior, this beautiful M3 (E46) coupé was first registered in Guernsey and has been there since new, enjoying two owners on the island. Well maintained and described by the vendor as in generally excellent condition, it comes with full BMW service history, Guernsey registration document, tool kit, and the original leather wallet containing all instruction manuals. UK taxes have been paid.