2006 BMW M3

To some enthusiasts, the idea of a performance convertible doesnt make sense. They will claim that cutting off the roof reduces rigidity, adds weight, and ultimately spoils the driving experience. But for someone who isnt looking to turn their M3 into a track car, the difference is hardly perceptible, and the pros of top-down motoring far outweigh any of the negatives. BMW has been producing convertible versions of the M3 since the original E30, and since the E36, they tend to outsell the coupe by a wide margin. It makes sense why, with the highly tuned, fantastic sounding M engines, what is better than putting the top and all four windows down on a nice day and enjoying the sound of 6 individual throttle bodies opening as you press the gas and the corresponding bark from the exhaust behind you. This 2006 BMW E46 M3 convertible is a final-year example and finished in the desirable shade of Silver Gray Metallic and shows 53,806 miles at the time of cataloging. This M3 is no stranger to us at EAG, with this visit marking its fifth time through our workshop since 2018 at which point it was showing 40,000 miles. Silver Gray Metallic is a great color for this car, darker than the more common Titanium Silver, and with some nice flake, does an impressive job of picking up light and shadow as it hits the car. From the factory, this car was fitted with the stunning polished Style 67 19 wheels wrapped in a set of Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tires. The interior is finished in black leather, which is complemented by Aluminum interior trim on the dashboard, center console, and door cards. The Cold Weather Package has also been fitted, giving the car heated front seats, making top-down cruising on a cool night an absolute joy. The Harman Kardon sound system in this car is a crucial option on E46s, offering wonderful, clear sound, which is important when driving with the top down in this example. Up front sits the heart of the E46 M3, the S54 DOHC Inline-6, producing 333 horsepower and 269 lb-ft of torque. Thanks to the 6 individual throttle bodies, the E46 was lauded for its razor-sharp throttle response, unique, race car-like sound, and ability to rev to 8,000 rpm. The introduction of the E46 M3 was also the introduction of the SMG automated manual gearbox to M cars in the United States- and many of the convertible buyers selected this transmission for easier two-pedal driving. Thankfully, that wasnt the case with this M3, which is equipped with the coveted 6-speed manual gearbox. As is the case with all of the cars that come through EAG, this M3 has been subject to a thorough mechanical inspection, with all noted flaws addressed. Additionally, as most BMW enthusiasts know, these cars can suffer from rear subframe issues when tracked extensively, and that is always one of the first checks we do to ensure that there are no signs of stress or cracking. We love convertible M cars at EAG. We understand that they arent the right choice for the hard-core track driving enthusiast, but for someone looking to enjoy driving an M car around town on nice days, there is nothing better. As we exit winter and the sun starts coming out more, its hard to deny that a convertible M3 like this will put a smile on your face all summer long.