Overview
A well maintained, low mileage and subtly modified ‘driver’s spec’ E46 M3, coming from long term ownership and benefitting from the 6-speed manual gearbox mated to the legendary S54 engine. Coming from the factory with the following equipment:
Electric, heated memory seats
Park Distance Control
Climate Control
Xenon headlights
18” Style 67 staggered alloy wheels
What sets this car apart is the modifications that have been fitted by the previous owner, namely a AP Racing 6 pot front brake kit, AP Racing 4 pot rear brake kit, KW Variant V2 coilover suspension, Powerflex RTABs and adjustable front roll bar. When these high-quality components are combined with the 18” wheels, manual gearbox and no sunroof, you end up with a superb driving experience.
The car was built as part of a run of ‘Individual’ models, and as such is finished in the desirable Estoril Blue with light grey Nappa seats.
History & Documentation
Reg No: LF52HJZ
Owners: 5
Mileage: 97,500 warranted
HPI: Clear
MOT: September 2026
Keys: 4
Supplied new by BMW UK, the initial running in service was carried out at a German main dealer, suggesting an Armed Forces first owner. By the second service at 11,000 miles in 2004, the car had returned to the UK and was serviced in the dealer network until 2008 then by independent specialists. There has been significant expenditure on the car since 2014 during which time only 12,000 miles have been covered. Notwithstanding the modifications which cost in excess of £5,000, there are invoices for replacement ACL rod bearings, replacement diff bushes and oil, AC compressor and other service items – notably the uprated discs and pads have also been replaced in the last 200 miles. We are in possession of the full book pack along with several old MOT certificates and many invoices for parts and work carried out.
Mechanical Condition
The car starts well and settles to a steady idle, a blip of the throttle will release the traditional raspy sound of the S54 engine. Moving off, the gearbox is characteristically notchy when cold but soon settles to deliver nice gearchanges when warm. The engine provides a strong pull right to the near 8k redline and it goes without saying that the braking and handling are someway improved over standard and free from any unwanted knocks or bangs – the car is fantastic fun to hustle along a B road, but equally happy on the motorway where it is still comfortable for long journeys.
Exterior Condition
The paintwork is in great condition, with even panel gaps and original seam sealer in place, indicating an accident-free car. The wheels are all in almost unmarked condition and are shod with matching Goodyear Eagle F1 tyres all round. Closer inspection will reveal some minor blemishes around the car but generally this is a smart example which looks even more purposeful with the lower stance and those huge brakes hiding behind the wheels.
Interior Condition
The interior of the car is equally good condition showing an expected level of wear on the leather considering the mileage. The dash and trim inserts have been refinished in Alcantara which provides a nice upgrade to the usual inserts. All the electrics work without exception and there are no warning lights on the dash.
Summary
This is a lovely example of a driver’s spec M3 which can be used and enjoyed as a road car that could easily cope with the odd track day – of course, it could also serve as a basis for a ‘clubsport’ track-oriented car, but it is far too good to become a fully stripped out track car.
The car will come with a comprehensive warranty and p/x is available. Please feel free to ask any questions.