Your first oversteer car - BMW M3 E46 buying guide

The M version of the E46 arrived in 2001, its 3.2-litre straight-six featuring an evolution of the 330Ci’s Double Vanos variable valve timing, while a lightweight crankshaft and graphite-coated aluminium pistons allowed it to spin at 8000rpm. In 2003, the £58K CSL brought 355bhp, a carbonfibre roof, cut-slick tyres and a price tag £20K over the basic car. The halfway-house CS of 2005 was an evo favourite.

HOW MUCH TO RUN ONE?

It’s scarcely believable that E46 M3s can be as little as six grand, but obviously be cautious at that price. From £7K there’s a huge choice, and £10K buys a very good car.

CHECKPOINTS

Good servicing is crucial, including the run-in service at 1200 miles – the cheaper the car, the more likely that corners have been cut. Pre-June ’03 engines were prone to crankshaft big-end bearing failure; oil supply upgrades should have been sorted under warranty. The 19in alloys are easily kerbed, and repairs are costly. Uprated brakes are a boost for trackday users. Find out more at m3cutters.co.uk

SERVICE: £180TYRES (two rear, fitted): £436EXHAUST (fitted, cat-back): £900INSURANCE*: £600ROAD TAX (12 months): £270FUEL** (10,000 miles): £2156 TOTAL: £4542

* Insurance based on a 30-year-old male, two years’ NCD, living in Stamford, office worker, no accidents or convictions. Quotes from Adrian Flux (adrianflux.co.uk).

** Fuel cost based on official ‘combined’ mpg and unleaded at £1.35 per litre

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