BMW M3 E46 Competition for saleThe BMW E46 M3 Competition, also referred to as the CS on UK cars, was a rare and highly desirable option package available on the E46 M3. Often described as the "CSL light" due to its many shared parts and handling characteristics, only 3,011 were produced, making this version nearly as rare as the CSL, which commands high prices today. The competition package was a €5,300 option that few ordered. I will guide you through all the differences between the competition package and a standard M3 throughout this description.

Exterior: The exterior of this car is finished in the gorgeous Carbon Schwarz, a color that can appear black but also has a strong dark blue metallic hue in the sun. The exterior is in great condition, with a few stone chips but nothing out of the ordinary, especially for a car with its original paint, also proving it is accident-free. Spotting the competition package on the exterior is difficult. The main differences a trained eye could spot is the slightly lower ride height and larger brake rotors. Another minor detail is the openable rear windows, which push out from the rear, providing nice air circulation with minimal wind noise.

Interior: Inside the E46 M3, you will find a Nappa Grey leather interior in exceptional condition. The interior of this car is truly close to flawless. Here, the competition package becomes more prominent. For starters, you are greeted with a less cluttered steering wheel, displaying only the M Track mode, an option found only on the competition and CSL. The steering wheel, handbrake, and SMG lever are upholstered in Alcantara. The car also has exclusive aluminum panels called Alu Tech, seen only with the competition package. Outside of the competition features, the car also has nice equipment such as the large navigation unit, electric rear curtain, memory seats, glass sunroof and HiFi Harman Kardon sound system.

Engine and Mechanics: Even though this BMW E46 M3 has the competition package, it retains the same drivetrain as a standard M3. This includes the renowned S54 inline-six engine producing 343 hp, paired with the 6-speed sequential manual gearbox called SMG. The competition package provides the car with better suspension with different damper and spring settings, a higher steering ratio (same as the CSL), and 20 mm larger brake rotors from the CSL. The car is also equipped with M Track mode, which raises the threshold for when the dynamic stability control intervenes without fully disabling it, another feature from the CSL. Mechanically, the car runs perfectly and feels very well maintained.

History and Documentation: This is a very well-documented and well-maintained example of an E46 M3. The car was originally sold in Dillingen, Germany, but was exported to Sweden a few months later, where it in total has had five caring owners, the latest owning the car for eight years. The car comes with a well-stamped service book, lots of service records and MOT papers, and its two original keys. The car is also sold with a new MOT inspection. If you live in Sweden and would like to sell your classic BMW, please let us know here.