Description
BMW M3 Cabriolet | 2003
Highlights:
– Desirable Carbon Black with Oxblood red leather interior
– Rare 6-speed manual gearbox
– Service history including original BMW service book
– 19″ CSL-style alloy wheels
– Harman-Kardon sound system and other luxury features
– 121.000 km verified
The seller offers for sale this 2003 BMW M3 Cabriolet, finished in the sought-after Carbon Black over red leather interior with a black soft top. Under the hood is BMW’s legendary 3.2-litre inline-6 engine, mated to a 6-speed manual transmission—a combination prized by enthusiasts for its direct and involving driving experience. This M3 was first registered by Sytner BMW of Gerrards Cross and has covered 75,000 verified miles. The car has been regularly maintained, with numerous invoices, MOTs and its original BMW service and instruction books present.
Exterior features include 19” CSL-style alloy wheels that give the M3 a more assertive stance, complemented by white indicator lenses, rear parking sensors, and the factory-fitted M-style enhancements. Inside, the car boasts Oxblood red electric seats with memory function, a glass heated rear window, a Harmon-Kardon sound upgrade, and a CD changer in the boot. The dashboard and trim components are complete and well-kept. Additional convenience features include the BMW Sport button, Dynamic Stability Control (DSC), and stitched steering wheel details that add a custom touch.
The exterior paintwork is in good shape with some signs of use, reportedly polished with Xymol. The car has been fitted with chassis and suspension strengthening components to improve handling.
Inside, the leather upholstery presents with expected age-appropriate patina, but no significant damage. Major controls, door cards and trim pieces are intact. The soft-top roof, made of mohair, is described as being in good condition. Overall, the interior appears well-preserved for its age with minor wear that does not detract from usability.
Mechanically, the M3 is in a good condition. The lights, indicators and brakes are operational, and the car holds a valid inspection.
While described enthusiastically by the seller, potential buyers are advised to verify condition in person, as expectations can vary.
Introduced in 2000, the E46 generation BMW M3 is widely regarded as one of the best driver’s cars ever produced by the marque. Its 3.2L naturally aspirated S54 engine delivers a thrilling 343 horsepower, known for its high-revving character and engaging power delivery. The M3 Cabriolet variant allowed drivers to enjoy top-down motoring without compromising much on dynamics, thanks to BMW’s stiffened chassis and balanced rear-wheel drive platform.
Unlike many modern performance cars, the E46 M3 still retained a naturally aspirated engine and a manual gearbox, making it a purist’s choice. The 6-speed manual version—like this one—is especially sought after, as many were delivered with SMG automated manuals, which have proven more troublesome over time. The Carbon Black paint is a factory M-colour, and it pairs well with red leather, creating a striking yet classic appearance.
Over the years, the E46 M3 has earned a place in the enthusiast market, with values steadily climbing for well-kept, original cars. The model was also a motorsport icon, with variants campaigned in touring car championships worldwide. Many were heavily used or modified over time, so factory-correct examples with a known history, like this one, are increasingly hard to find.
This example also benefits from tasteful upgrades like the CSL-style wheels, which were originally offered on the track-focused M3 CSL model. Such additions, while not factory-standard, are period-correct and visually consistent with the car’s character.
Condition of the Bodywork and Paint
4. Very Good: Small dents or scratches; may require minimal bodywork or paint correction.
Condition of the Interior
4. Very Good: Clean with minimal wear; may need minor replacements for small missing or broken parts.
Technical Condition
4. Very Good: Mechanically solid, with possible minor maintenance required.
Overall Condition
4. Very Good Condition: Shows only minimal wear and is ready to drive at any time.
This item is sold on an as-is basis. The condition of this item is the opinion of the seller and may differ from your own opinion. Photos and descriptions of the listing are for information purposes only.
We encourage all potential bidders to inspect the vehicle before placing a bid. Please contact us by phone or email to schedule an appointment.
All auction cars offered have a reserve price. You have only won the item if the seller accepts your bid.
Price changes and errors reserved. The 14-day right of withdrawal does not apply to this auction.
This car is currently located in Glasgow City Council, Scotland.
This car drives, brakes and shifts.
The car has a UK registration. The buyer is responsible for registration in his own country and responsible for delivery and collection of any vehicle purchased at the auction.
The description of this car is, to the best of the seller’s knowledge, accurate and not misleading. Route 66 Auctions requests a range of detail about the car from the seller and performs a level of due diligence. However, potential buyers must independently satisfy themselves as to the accuracy of the description. We strongly advise potential buyers to view or arrange inspections as well as conduct any research they feel is necessary before committing to bid or buy.
Please note that it is not uncommon for classic or collectible cars to have received cosmetic repairs in the past, to rectify damage or refresh appearance, and this work may be hard to see even upon visual inspection. Unless there is an explicit statement by the seller to the contrary, please assume that any vehicle could have had bodywork or paintwork. Photographs may not reflect the exact true colour or exact full condition of the vehicle. It is a bidder’s responsibility to assure themselves of the colour and condition of a vehicle, including its interior and the existence of any remedial bodywork or paintwork, before committing to bid or buy.
