BMW has built some incredible engines over the decades and of them all, few would deny that the S54 which powered the E46 M3, Z3 M, M Coupe, and Z4 M was one of its very finest.
In BMW M3 guise, the 3.2-liter naturally-aspirated straight-six churned out as much as 338 hp and 269 lb-ft (365 Nm) of torque and is notable for its high-revving nature and mechanical howl. Anyone looking to experience what this engine has to offer would be wise to check out an E46 M3 Convertible and this one currently up for auction is an especially nice example.
The car has been listed through Bring a Trailer and despite being a 2005 model, has only been driven 30,000 miles (~48,000 km). It is being sold with a Carfax report and a clean Virginia title. Unfortunately, it was involved in an accident in May 2006 that damaged the front bumper, hood, and front-left fender but these have been repaired.
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The previous owners of the car have kept it largely stock but it does now rock a set of 18-inch APEX ARC-8 wheels wrapped in 245/40 front and 275/35 rear Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tires.
Despite the car’s age, the interior remains surprisingly well-appointed. It includes black Nappa leather across the heated and power-adjustable front seats while also sporting cruise control, a BMW Business CD stereo, and a Harman Kardon audio system. While there are some little signs of use from the past 18 years, the cabin looks to have been very well maintained. The folding soft top also appears to work seamlessly, making this the perfect car where the S54 engine can be enjoyed to the fullest.
Further adding to the desirability of the car is the fact that it has the six-speed manual transmission rather than the sub-par SMG the car was also offered with.
