Loved the “pharmaceutical delivery”, “property state” and “not being able to stream your own music” comments. I really like the sarcastic approach to a car review challenge. 10/10 mate!
Absolutely right about the condition of the house though. If someone can't be arsed to trim the hedge, and paint the rusty gate, they ain't going to be upto date with oil changes.
For those of you interested in the convertible, if you get cat-less headers, Turner csl airbox and the Alpha N tune. The induction sound and the new 340+ whp is AMAZING! And it gets even better with the top down on a nice sunny day. The convertible is the perfect street/canyon car! If you are hitting the track then the coupe is a better option but for spirited street driving you can not beat the convertible. And with the hardtop on it completely changes the look and feel (feels like a coupe) of the car! Enjoy!!
I’ve literally never seen a video featuring a e46 M3 without the driver breaking a smile while revving it out. The feel is just amazing how it builds up
Great video, I've done the same thing that you have done ,brought a cheap M3 and I've spent around £6,000 on it getting it back to totally original condition and we have the SMG gearbox and we love it its much faster and smoother .
@Ian TB driven a Porsche GT4, amazing car. One of my favourites. Bottomed out quite often and was unable to get in to the hotel's underground carpark 😂 But it's an expensive car to use as a b road slayer.
@@HighPeakAutos Look at it this way, so what if it's only worth 16k..........the M3 owes you nothing and you KNOW there's nothing wrong with it...........(I always think that the price is+anything that is probably wrong with the car).
E46 M3s are great cars with great S54 engine and decent build quality. Fantastic overall package 👌🏼 best enjoyed these days as that special occasion / sunny afternoon kind of car. You’ve done a great job with yours Matt 👌🏼 glad to see you’re enjoying it 👍🏼
Many people don’t think twice about the house your living in or the neighborhood when buying a car but that’s very important good thing u pointed that out
I love my black E36 1998 M3 Convertible 5-speed, bought used, although as a USA-spec it’s not quite as powerful as the Euro-spec - but it’s still a heck of a lot of fun. In Colorado there’s over 300+ days of sunshine a year, but I don’t drive it on the snowy days.
I remember back in the early 2000`s going to an Opel Owners Club vs VW Owners Club high speed event in Pretoria, South Africa at a banked oval track called Gerotek, i`d seen the e46 M3 on the road but never seen one let loose on a track, the first one that had a go blew me away, that sound of the S54 at full wail was intoxicating! Fast forward a few years and I was working in the car trade and managed to get my hands on Imola Red Coupe with the SMG II box, loved every minute of owning that car!
100% that this E46 and the E39 5 series are the peak of BMW design. Never really been a BMW fan other than the 635CSi but I actually lusted after the coupe version of the E46 for some years, and still think it is good looking now. Yours looks great and so good to see a cared for and unmolested example. It will definitely be increasing in value in years to come 👍
i agree 100% this is an amazing car. I remember falling in love with e46 m3 when playing need for speed most wanted. Like you said the only gripe is finding one that has been maintained well. Most would just drive this to the ground without servicing it properly. Could you do a review of a 2008 onward Mitsubishi lancer/evo if you ever get a chance! keep up the good work!
Yes I like this shape better than the later one. More than enough power for me I would keep it standard..I've had a BMW before the arches you need to keep touching up . but a good one to have.you should not loose anything.
Good buying advice. I had 5 convertibles, all manual, which were fun. Then I got a coupe. The difference dynamically is vast. The extra rigidity makes the body control so much better when driving hard down a back road and on our badly surfaced tarmac. It's so much sharper and more keen to respond to the throttle. You do hear the glorious engine sound better with the convertible but for driving purity the coupe is the one. The optional hardtop with the convertible is nice. If you can get an M3 CS manual then even better. I was able to pair my Note 20 Ultra with the Bluetooth. You do get the phone book on the screen and it works well. The sat nav is dated. Unmodified is best. 👍
Its a keeper, a classic BMW, it will be a collectable in a few years, it just looks fantastic , it just sits right, worth every penny spent on it honestly
Seen the notification, but saved the video for this morning. I’m biased, as I drive a 520d touring, and a Z3 on the few sunny days. The car is a peach and well worth the few quid spent. Smiles per gallon is crucial. Love your witty presentation style. Keep it up.
I was dead against SMG when looking for one. Then test drove one and loved it. Ended up with an SMG one. No regrets. All E46 are SMG2 E36 SMG1 E60 SMG3.
Answer YES. Straight six normally aspirated petrol everyday of the week. Buying advice was spot on BTW. I even apply it to dealers , scruffy unkempt lot equals poor uncared for stock usually. .Google map street view the address and then review the car advert.
I have a Golf cabriolet (2012, petro, automatic) which I bought when it was 3 years old. Last year it had a new water pump and a new gearbox. A lot of money but still cheaper than buying another 2-3 year old convertible. The car is lovely to drive so will keep it another few years.
Not even a BMW fan and I love the look of this car. They really nailed the styling and, from your description, the driving experience as well. Can't think why anyone would modify one.
You still got this? The lights go backwards for change up lights , and with traction off and the extra Smg mode, push the gearstick forward , Rev and release for launch control. Flat shift up to say half throttle and maybe lift off at full throttle. Smg is actually a great mix of easy but faster, more accurate yet still mechanical changes.
Other common issues are the rear subframe mounts can become detached. A squeak from the rear when driving is a give away that these have failed. Also the rear view mirror can leak and drip onto the gear stick surround causing it to melt. I do miss the one I had though!
There was not two different gearbox’s. There is only one. The difference is the SMG pump and pipe work fitted to the manual box to do the shifting for you. All you need to do is rip out the plumbing, put in the clutch pedal and the manual shifter to that gearbox. It even has the same clutch.
Ok review. You might need to do some homework. As for connecting your phone to the radio head unit. Of course you can. For a small upgrade on the GM module you can enable Bluetooth music streaming, AUX, and a phone connection. You can also update the satnav and get new maps for it. So what’s the issue? There is digital TV as well for that unit. Again simpler to activate. The best one is the reverse camera which can be installed for £30! So with all that how is that so antiquated? The SMG is the exact same gearbox as the manual too. You gust need to remove all the plumbing. Not too hard either with the bonus of all that weight removed. All this is easily done, not expensive, which i have done all this and more myself.
After many years of saying the M3 is not for me and never will be .....I. watched your video and now I’m thinking ummm maybe. I have already bought an M5 after watching your video on that one. Great stuff Matt ...love the M5 BTW what a machine .....
Stunning car. A passion is always worth the expense. I have a Smart Brabus Coupe Roadster - last edition. Endless expense but endless joy. Excellent vid again. Keep it up.
Great content! I binge watched so many of your videos. I just love that you are realistic and straight forward and show us great used car options alongside issues that might arise. Keep up the great work!
My neighbour had 330 in black on a 52 plate ... he was 67, retired and used to go around goading the boy-racers in their tuned up Corsas, Astras, Imprezzas etc. Cancer got him at 68 ...The only trouble he had with it was the roof/Alarm draining the battery ...Turned out it had wrong battery, should be a Gel one or summit. Oh, and it ate rear tyres ... lots of 'em.
Matt - You've become rather posh with a perfect M3 and a Range Rover Vogue. Congratulations...Don't forget you had the car repainted, which most should not require and while I'm writing this OMG! - that road through the lush canyon is magnificent!!!!!
I’ve got one of these, off the road at the moment, don’t know if you know, if you do around 35/40 mph knock it in to neutral pull the two paddles back together for three four seconds, it resets to factory settings, and dose smooth the gears out, you can do this as many times as you like👍
Yes yes yes everybody should buy an E46 especially an M3, the E46 is one of the best BMWs that BMW made, they got it so right and they knew it and know it, think about it here we are in 2020 and that car still turns heads and is instantly recognisable, it also has a huge following get one before they become too rare - think about the BMW CSL (batmobile) the '02 turbo, the E30 M3s (all models) well the next in line is the E46 M3 (the E36 M3 seemed to be wedged awkwardly between the E30 and E46) personally I'd prefer a manual but each to his own, great car - great vid.
I think this is my favourite video on TH-cam. This iteration of the M3 is by far my favourite car (but in a manual, sorry) it’s probably going to be a while before I own one but this was a breath of fresh air and I’m glad you love the car as much as I do. Woodhead pass is always (mostly) a good drive if it’s near you too!
@@BlackCeII the main reason why i would not buy the cabrio is: i live in a bigger city and my car is parked on the street. people are jelous, dumb, drunk whatever - it happens so often that they cut/ruin the soft top of cars for fun. i would get a headache leaving a car like this parked on the streets. if you have a garage that is something else, but for me it is not the right choice.
Saw you today heading into marple. I noticed the M3 as I just sold mine, so it brought a smile to my face, but then caught a glance of the driver and i am sure it was you. Nice motor 👍
Great review. Everything you said resonated. I have a 2002 E46 convertible, in silver with a grey interior. I paid 6,500 for it via an eBay auction. It was a two-owner since new car with a full BMWSH. I replaced the front wings had the wheels refurbished, and spent 5,400 at my BMW dealer for a full service, including a bunch of things that needed (or nearly needed) doing. The car is now immaculate. All in, I’ve spent 14,000, but boy is it fantastic. I have a Porsche 991.2 C4S. I prefer the BMW.
You can get oem looking android headunits for that, looks stock but does everything possible on modern day headunits. Cheap too, Plug and play, keep the original radio back home.
Love that car Matt definitely a keeper just bought a f34 as it suits my life style surprisingly pokey with the space I need and full of the comforts not everybody’s cup of tea but I love it ... thanks for bringing the m3 back great watch 👍🏻
Yes! Manual box, robotised is pants (too jerky) keep it stock, no lowered suspensions ( why would you?) , I had 19” wheels , but 18” are a better ride, mine was the launch color metallic Yellow.
Agree with every word about the SMG Box. I had a Carbon Black 03 plate SMG one. Very usable once you figure it out. Definitely not as bad as people make out. Negative voices are always the loudest unfortunately.
Great vide, I think the peak district where you filmed this video. I know because I recognise Castleton, is one of the most underrated beauty spots on our fair Isle. If Caliban from the tempest was describing anywhere in England, in his ‘The Isle is Full of Noises’ speech, he's describing this place.
Love my E46 M3 conv. If I would have wanted the best M3 I would have gotten the coupe (esp. the CSL) but I wanted the best convertible with the highest smiles per gallon and the E46 M3 conv certainly delivers!
Picked up my m2c last week. At 35 the e46 m3 was the car I badly wanted when I was younger. Love my m2c but arguably its stupidly quick and I picked dct. Should of just bought my dream m3 n been done with it.
Everything you have said is bang on. Owned a 330ci for a about a year now, lovely car but now wanting an m3. Trying to hold out for an estoril blue coupe SMG (SMG seems more intriguing for a weekend car) . Not botherd by mileage as long as all essential work has been done. Great video keep it up.
Absolutely love my E46 M3 SMG vert, like you I would hate it as a daily, mines a summer roof down only car too, your review is spot on, I’ve loved these cars since I was a kid so bought the very best example I could find a few years back, now it feels awesome having a 11,500 mile example in the garage :)
It’s an older car. They are all money Pitts. But as enthusiasts. It’s not always about the best financial decision. If that was the case. We would all be driving Toyota Prius.
Can tell how much you love that car. More GoPro angles than you can shake a stick at and you never stopped smiling. Surely there is some ‘pair the phone that looks right kit’ and then it will be the daily, especially as you have the cup holders installed.😀
Honest video Matt! Finally go to see such familiar Peak District views last weekend after so long for me! There’s definitely been some roof down days during lockdown which as sure you were tempted to give the M3 a spin ;) cars of this era - M5 or RS4
Good advice about the receipts, well sort of. I keep all the receipts for every little job and they go in a folder. I then go and drive, I don't refer back to them. To me, the key to enjoying the car is do whatever needs doing, when it needs doing. If you find the need to keep reflecting on what it's cost you, you're no longer enjoying it and should get rid.
You’re right, only 2 or 3 days a year to take the roof down to enjoy a convertible. Plus, I never thought of looking at a person’s house to see if they don’t care for their house. They probably won’t care for their car.
Those warning lights for when the engine is cold never seemed to go off? Great car. The early-mid noughties was a great time for sports saloons. Love my ‘06 Boxster S but would like your extra doors! Top work as always 👏
It’s nice to see someone who’s gone to town and back on trying to get a car, as pristine , to as close to the original and lavish regardless of the cost, be it a BMW or any other vehicle, nothing wrong with that kind of dedication, infact to be admired and like you have to agree , one day in the future , a good example like this will cream the hard cash back, that you put into it,, for that reason you should hang on to it , and it’s something you love , cheers for the video and previous regarding this car, have seen them all great viewing and magic story ,,,,Shane uk 🇬🇧
Your reviews are by far 1 of the best absolutely superb. Watched you since your first video but my god your doing really well and I wish you the best for the future :)
@@HighPeakAutos The way you use such fine detailing in every review you make it look effortless and to be honest your down to earth aswel all I can do is praise you and ask you to carry on never give up 👍👌👏
Love the honest review! I’ve always loved the E46 M3, especially that S54 engine. I went a slightly different route and bought a Z4M as a stop gap fun car after selling my 911 to help fund the purchase of my house. Absolutely love it and it’s a keeper for sure. Might get a mint silver E46 M3 coupe too. Who needs 2 convertibles :)
The running in service at or before 1200 miles is vital for BMW warranty, now it’s good to see but if it was done at say 1500 miles it does really matter.
Lovely car 🚙, I used to drive the BMW 335i twin turbo (N54/E93) convertible (dark silver/red leather interior), it was a beautiful and powerful ride, BMW is a drivers car & I regret i sold it, I would have keep it for ever, for my kid when he turns 20 or so... those small bemers are such a beautiful cars. (I used to keep him in the best conditions possible, i just hope the lad i sold him to does the same).
I think it's a great call to keep it; not only is it an outstanding car but if kept for 5-10 years it will probably be a very sound investment worth at least £15k in 5 years time? Yes stuff will break but you are not loosing shed loads in depreciation (often 50%+), which is easily the biggest cost of ownership most people conveniently forget...
Matt I love your car reviews dude. If possible please could you review these cars: 1) Newer (2016 onwards) Toyota Prius 2) V12 Toyota Century and 3) new Hybrid V8 shape 4)Ford Raptor 5) 200 Series Landcruiser 6) 2005 Toyota Prado V6 7) Mustang V8 8) R34 GTR V Spec Skyline 9) R33 GTR V spec Nismo Skyline (Childhood fav) 10) Toyota Supra manual 11) Nissan 300zx manual 12) Volvo s80 V8 13) Volvo XC70 T6 (2010) 14) Volvo 740 15) E60 BMW M5 16) Volvo 850 T5 R 17) Audi RS4 18) 100 Series Landcruiser diesel 19) Lexus LC500 20) E28 BMW 535 Would be awesome! :)
These videos are the equivalent to having a few beers and a takeaway delivered on a night after a hard day. So enjoyable and chilled hahah
Haha thanks! I'll take that
@RichJW hahah thanks buddy 👍
Get in after a shit day and the mrs doing my head in over bathroom tiles this will cheer me up nice one dude
rogue let’s not talk about that 😂😂
@@anthonywhite721 this made me laugh hehe
Classic
Have you done the tiles yet? It's been over a week and no guy can put up with a weeks worth of bother 😀😀
Allan Prits haha funny you should say old tiles taken off this afternoon painting done tiller is coming tomorrow morning 😂😂👍👍
Loved the “pharmaceutical delivery”, “property state” and “not being able to stream your own music” comments. I really like the sarcastic approach to a car review challenge. 10/10 mate!
Glad you enjoyed it!
Absolutely right about the condition of the house though. If someone can't be arsed to trim the hedge, and paint the rusty gate, they ain't going to be upto date with oil changes.
I own this car yet I still watch vids about it love it
Same
The mrs said im not allowed to watch this channel anymore
She’s not the one mate, get rid.
Haha She doesnt have a Juke does she?
Yes
Mine used to say that but then I watched shall you buy a range rover evoque 🤣
Watch it twice then 😉
Without question the most undervalued car TH-cam channel.
Thank you! That means a lot
For those of you interested in the convertible, if you get cat-less headers, Turner csl airbox and the Alpha N tune. The induction sound and the new 340+ whp is AMAZING! And it gets even better with the top down on a nice sunny day. The convertible is the perfect street/canyon car! If you are hitting the track then the coupe is a better option but for spirited street driving you can not beat the convertible. And with the hardtop on it completely changes the look and feel (feels like a coupe) of the car! Enjoy!!
I’ve literally never seen a video featuring a e46 M3 without the driver breaking a smile while revving it out. The feel is just amazing how it builds up
You’re right, my foot rarely goes more than half way past the full travel in F80 m3 especially in the rain
In the days when engineers still has some say....
Its back! What a motor. E46 coupe is the nicest shape of modern 3 series too, will be a classic
Great video, I've done the same thing that you have done ,brought a cheap M3 and I've spent around £6,000 on it getting it back to totally original condition and we have the SMG gearbox and we love it its much faster and smoother .
I've driven more performance cars than I can remember and the e46 is still the sweet spot for me.
@Ian TB driven a Porsche GT4, amazing car. One of my favourites. Bottomed out quite often and was unable to get in to the hotel's underground carpark 😂 But it's an expensive car to use as a b road slayer.
I love this car so much
Me too
@@HighPeakAutos Look at it this way, so what if it's only worth 16k..........the M3 owes you nothing and you KNOW there's nothing wrong with it...........(I always think that the price is+anything that is probably wrong with the car).
I must say my place is a tad untidy as I am a bachelor! But my vehicles are well maintained!
E46 M3s are great cars with great S54 engine and decent build quality. Fantastic overall package 👌🏼 best enjoyed these days as that special occasion / sunny afternoon kind of car.
You’ve done a great job with yours Matt 👌🏼 glad to see you’re enjoying it 👍🏼
I had this exact spec car, and added the detachable hardtop - which gave the car even better lines. One of my all time favs!!
You’ve done such a good job with this! I love a convertible as well!
Glad you like it!
Many people don’t think twice about the house your living in or the neighborhood when buying a car but that’s very important good thing u pointed that out
Took the recycling out and now sat here on my computer spending my Friday night watching your videos! Rock n roll! lol nice video :)
I love my black E36 1998 M3 Convertible 5-speed, bought used, although as a USA-spec it’s not quite as powerful as the Euro-spec - but it’s still a heck of a lot of fun. In Colorado there’s over 300+ days of sunshine a year, but I don’t drive it on the snowy days.
“If the bill’s don’t exist, did it really happen?” 😀 Can I send you my accountant’s phone number?! 😝
Hahaha
@@HighPeakAutos actually that should be the opposite! ... why can't bills be transferable??? 😝😝😝
I remember back in the early 2000`s going to an Opel Owners Club vs VW Owners Club high speed event in Pretoria, South Africa at a banked oval track called Gerotek, i`d seen the e46 M3 on the road but never seen one let loose on a track, the first one that had a go blew me away, that sound of the S54 at full wail was intoxicating!
Fast forward a few years and I was working in the car trade and managed to get my hands on Imola Red Coupe with the SMG II box, loved every minute of owning that car!
100% that this E46 and the E39 5 series are the peak of BMW design. Never really been a BMW fan other than the 635CSi but I actually lusted after the coupe version of the E46 for some years, and still think it is good looking now. Yours looks great and so good to see a cared for and unmolested example. It will definitely be increasing in value in years to come 👍
Another great vid. So honest and true.
Glad you enjoyed it
i agree 100% this is an amazing car. I remember falling in love with e46 m3 when playing need for speed most wanted. Like you said the only gripe is finding one that has been maintained well. Most would just drive this to the ground without servicing it properly. Could you do a review of a 2008 onward Mitsubishi lancer/evo if you ever get a chance! keep up the good work!
Yes I like this shape better than the later one. More than enough power for me I would keep it standard..I've had a BMW before the arches you need to keep touching up . but a good one to have.you should not loose anything.
That landscape you drove though was magical.
a grin and a smile then a laugh, priceless. great car, keep it as long as you can
Good buying advice. I had 5 convertibles, all manual, which were fun. Then I got a coupe. The difference dynamically is vast. The extra rigidity makes the body control so much better when driving hard down a back road and on our badly surfaced tarmac. It's so much sharper and more keen to respond to the throttle. You do hear the glorious engine sound better with the convertible but for driving purity the coupe is the one. The optional hardtop with the convertible is nice. If you can get an M3 CS manual then even better. I was able to pair my Note 20 Ultra with the Bluetooth. You do get the phone book on the screen and it works well. The sat nav is dated. Unmodified is best. 👍
Ugh all the M3 bores talking about manual coupes. Just enjoy it, it’s a beautiful car!
What never happened can't hurt/haunt you. Good work!!
Its a keeper, a classic BMW, it will be a collectable in a few years, it just looks fantastic , it just sits right, worth every penny spent on it honestly
Seen the notification, but saved the video for this morning. I’m biased, as I drive a 520d touring, and a Z3 on the few sunny days. The car is a peach and well worth the few quid spent. Smiles per gallon is crucial. Love your witty presentation style. Keep it up.
love your honesty, may god bless you
Thank you
I was dead against SMG when looking for one. Then test drove one and loved it. Ended up with an SMG one. No regrets. All E46 are SMG2 E36 SMG1 E60 SMG3.
Nothing wrong with the SMG, just get used to it, and it's just more stuff that can go wrong, but at the end of the day, it's still a manual.
Answer YES. Straight six normally aspirated petrol everyday of the week. Buying advice was spot on BTW. I even apply it to dealers , scruffy unkempt lot equals poor uncared for stock usually. .Google map street view the address and then review the car advert.
The covid has somehow changed perceptions , people are starting to cherish life pre covid .
Cars definitely fall into that category.
Love the wheels. Absolutely legendary
Thanks
I have a Golf cabriolet (2012, petro, automatic) which I bought when it was 3 years old. Last year it had a new water pump and a new gearbox. A lot of money but still cheaper than buying another 2-3 year old convertible. The car is lovely to drive so will keep it another few years.
I have this motor. Great review this!
Thanks
Not even a BMW fan and I love the look of this car. They really nailed the styling and, from your description, the driving experience as well. Can't think why anyone would modify one.
Me neither
You still got this? The lights go backwards for change up lights , and with traction off and the extra Smg mode, push the gearstick forward , Rev and release for launch control. Flat shift up to say half throttle and maybe lift off at full throttle. Smg is actually a great mix of easy but faster, more accurate yet still mechanical changes.
A very good and honest review of a great classic car. Very nice!
Glad you liked it!
Other common issues are the rear subframe mounts can become detached. A squeak from the rear when driving is a give away that these have failed. Also the rear view mirror can leak and drip onto the gear stick surround causing it to melt. I do miss the one I had though!
THE INTRO "i just tore up the bills" 😂😂😂🔥♥️
Catrina and the Waves 😂 Love the E46, has a 320Ci a few years back. One of the few cars I regret getting rid of
There was not two different gearbox’s. There is only one. The difference is the SMG pump and pipe work fitted to the manual box to do the shifting for you. All you need to do is rip out the plumbing, put in the clutch pedal and the manual shifter to that gearbox. It even has the same clutch.
Haha this guys reviews are brutally honest! Love it. Great vids! Keep em coming.
Torn up the receipts and pretended it didn’t happen. You have a lot in common with my wife 😂
Ok review. You might need to do some homework. As for connecting your phone to the radio head unit. Of course you can. For a small upgrade on the GM module you can enable Bluetooth music streaming, AUX, and a phone connection. You can also update the satnav and get new maps for it. So what’s the issue? There is digital TV as well for that unit. Again simpler to activate. The best one is the reverse camera which can be installed for £30! So with all that how is that so antiquated? The SMG is the exact same gearbox as the manual too. You gust need to remove all the plumbing. Not too hard either with the bonus of all that weight removed. All this is easily done, not expensive, which i have done all this and more myself.
After many years of saying the M3 is not for me and never will be .....I. watched your video and now I’m thinking ummm maybe.
I have already bought an M5 after watching your video on that one.
Great stuff Matt ...love the M5 BTW what a machine .....
Great choice. They're superb cars
Stunning car. A passion is always worth the expense. I have a Smart Brabus Coupe Roadster - last edition. Endless expense but endless joy. Excellent vid again. Keep it up.
Great content! I binge watched so many of your videos. I just love that you are realistic and straight forward and show us great used car options alongside issues that might arise. Keep up the great work!
Thanks! I appreciate it
I like this car now, as it's more M3 than the newer models! I still like the look of the mid to late 90s M3...!!!
Great job mate... yes, worth all the effort. Endless joy and you will never loose a penny on this.
Well said
wise choice ' dont get the bug like me' and have a hareem of motors '
its a proper enthusiast car ' and the feel good factor , nice one
My neighbour had 330 in black on a 52 plate ... he was 67, retired and used to go around goading the boy-racers in their tuned up Corsas, Astras, Imprezzas etc. Cancer got him at 68 ...The only trouble he had with it was the roof/Alarm draining the battery ...Turned out it had wrong battery, should be a Gel one or summit.
Oh, and it ate rear tyres ... lots of 'em.
I once had a 325 with the wrong battery. Caused all sorts of issues
Having driven the SMG a lot if you drive it like a manual and lift on the up change it’s so much smoother. But above it all is that engine!
Thats quite right. Once you are accustomed to it, its fine
High Peak Autos yep I really can’t understand what all the hoo-haa is with changing to a manual. Yours is a beaut and I guess it will stay that way!
Matt - You've become rather posh with a perfect M3 and a Range Rover Vogue. Congratulations...Don't forget you had the car repainted, which most should not require and while I'm writing this OMG! - that road through the lush canyon is magnificent!!!!!
Hahaha good point
So true about the state of the sellers house regarding upkeep of car. Love the vids mate, keep em coming.
I’ve got one of these, off the road at the moment, don’t know if you know, if you do around 35/40 mph knock it in to neutral pull the two paddles back together for three four seconds, it resets to factory settings, and dose smooth the gears out, you can do this as many times as you like👍
Yes yes yes everybody should buy an E46 especially an M3, the E46 is one of the best BMWs that BMW made, they got it so right and they knew it and know it, think about it here we are in 2020 and that car still turns heads and is instantly recognisable, it also has a huge following get one before they become too rare - think about the BMW CSL (batmobile) the '02 turbo, the E30 M3s (all models) well the next in line is the E46 M3 (the E36 M3 seemed to be wedged awkwardly between the E30 and E46) personally I'd prefer a manual but each to his own, great car - great vid.
I think this is my favourite video on TH-cam. This iteration of the M3 is by far my favourite car (but in a manual, sorry) it’s probably going to be a while before I own one but this was a breath of fresh air and I’m glad you love the car as much as I do. Woodhead pass is always (mostly) a good drive if it’s near you too!
Glad you enjoyed it!
Glad to see you still love that car, been trying to get a clean one myself and have that love for it
of course you should if you can afford it. i would personally not go for the cabriolet tho.
I would.
I have the Cabrio. Its great to put the top down and blast up the coast with a lovely in the passenger seat.
@@BlackCeII the main reason why i would not buy the cabrio is: i live in a bigger city and my car is parked on the street. people are jelous, dumb, drunk whatever - it happens so often that they cut/ruin the soft top of cars for fun. i would get a headache leaving a car like this parked on the streets. if you have a garage that is something else, but for me it is not the right choice.
Hello Matt, good to see your M3 again, it looks very sorted, the scenery on your drive looked lovely. Regards, RichardA
This video is the best anti anxiety medication
Cheers!
Saw you today heading into marple. I noticed the M3 as I just sold mine, so it brought a smile to my face, but then caught a glance of the driver and i am sure it was you. Nice motor 👍
Yes that was probably me. I was out in it today
Great review. Everything you said resonated. I have a 2002 E46 convertible, in silver with a grey interior. I paid 6,500 for it via an eBay auction. It was a two-owner since new car with a full BMWSH. I replaced the front wings had the wheels refurbished, and spent 5,400 at my BMW dealer for a full service, including a bunch of things that needed (or nearly needed) doing. The car is now immaculate. All in, I’ve spent 14,000, but boy is it fantastic. I have a Porsche 991.2 C4S. I prefer the BMW.
Good choice!
You can get oem looking android headunits for that, looks stock but does everything possible on modern day headunits. Cheap too, Plug and play, keep the original radio back home.
Love that car Matt definitely a keeper just bought a f34 as it suits my life style surprisingly pokey with the space I need and full of the comforts not everybody’s cup of tea but I love it ...
thanks for bringing the m3 back great watch 👍🏻
Well done Matt, hang on to it buddy, definitely a future classic!!
Great video and a nice shot of Winnats Pass.
This shouldn’t even be up for debate. You should ALWAYS buy an E46 M3 (as long as it’s mechanically sound). Timeless motor
Yes! Manual box, robotised is pants (too jerky) keep it stock, no lowered suspensions ( why would you?) , I had 19” wheels , but 18” are a better ride, mine was the launch color metallic Yellow.
Phoenix yellow?
Agree with every word about the SMG Box. I had a Carbon Black 03 plate SMG one. Very usable once you figure it out. Definitely not as bad as people make out. Negative voices are always the loudest unfortunately.
Thats quite right. So true in all areas
Great vide, I think the peak district where you filmed this video. I know because I recognise Castleton, is one of the most underrated beauty spots on our fair Isle. If Caliban from the tempest was describing anywhere in England, in his ‘The Isle is Full of Noises’ speech, he's describing this place.
Love my E46 M3 conv. If I would have wanted the best M3 I would have gotten the coupe (esp. the CSL) but I wanted the best convertible with the highest smiles per gallon and the E46 M3 conv certainly delivers!
Totally agree
You need to update your playlist for your various cars you've done.
Great content, great presentation, great countryside and great cat.
Thanks
Picked up my m2c last week. At 35 the e46 m3 was the car I badly wanted when I was younger. Love my m2c but arguably its stupidly quick and I picked dct. Should of just bought my dream m3 n been done with it.
Everything you have said is bang on. Owned a 330ci for a about a year now, lovely car but now wanting an m3. Trying to hold out for an estoril blue coupe SMG (SMG seems more intriguing for a weekend car) . Not botherd by mileage as long as all essential work has been done. Great video keep it up.
Absolutely love my E46 M3 SMG vert, like you I would hate it as a daily, mines a summer roof down only car too, your review is spot on, I’ve loved these cars since I was a kid so bought the very best example I could find a few years back, now it feels awesome having a 11,500 mile example in the garage :)
It’s an older car. They are all money Pitts. But as enthusiasts. It’s not always about the best financial decision. If that was the case. We would all be driving Toyota Prius.
Can tell how much you love that car. More GoPro angles than you can shake a stick at and you never stopped smiling. Surely there is some ‘pair the phone that looks right kit’ and then it will be the daily, especially as you have the cup holders installed.😀
Thats right
Honest video Matt! Finally go to see such familiar Peak District views last weekend after so long for me! There’s definitely been some roof down days during lockdown which as sure you were tempted to give the M3 a spin ;) cars of this era - M5 or RS4
Good advice about the receipts, well sort of.
I keep all the receipts for every little job and they go in a folder. I then go and drive, I don't refer back to them.
To me, the key to enjoying the car is do whatever needs doing, when it needs doing.
If you find the need to keep reflecting on what it's cost you, you're no longer enjoying it and should get rid.
Haha yes mine are now in a folder too never to be looked at again
Love the analogies at 1:02, perfect!
You’re right, only 2 or 3 days a year to take the roof down to enjoy a convertible. Plus, I never thought of looking at a person’s house to see if they don’t care for their house. They probably won’t care for their car.
Those warning lights for when the engine is cold never seemed to go off? Great car. The early-mid noughties was a great time for sports saloons. Love my ‘06 Boxster S but would like your extra doors! Top work as always 👏
It’s nice to see someone who’s gone to town and back on trying to get a car, as pristine , to as close to the original and lavish regardless of the cost, be it a BMW or any other vehicle, nothing wrong with that kind of dedication, infact to be admired and like you have to agree , one day in the future , a good example like this will cream the hard cash back, that you put into it,, for that reason you should hang on to it , and it’s something you love , cheers for the video and previous regarding this car, have seen them all great viewing and magic story ,,,,Shane uk 🇬🇧
Your reviews are by far 1 of the best absolutely superb. Watched you since your first video but my god your doing really well and I wish you the best for the future :)
Thanks! I appreciate the support :)
@@HighPeakAutos The way you use such fine detailing in every review you make it look effortless and to be honest your down to earth aswel all I can do is praise you and ask you to carry on never give up 👍👌👏
Love the honest review! I’ve always loved the E46 M3, especially that S54 engine. I went a slightly different route and bought a Z4M as a stop gap fun car after selling my 911 to help fund the purchase of my house. Absolutely love it and it’s a keeper for sure. Might get a mint silver E46 M3 coupe too. Who needs 2 convertibles :)
E30 aside, this is the prettiest 3 series; so much nicer than the current stuff and seems timeless, still modern looking.
Looks brand new . Good job ! This car is a treasure . Keep it !
makos asimakis thanks! I’m going to
The running in service at or before 1200 miles is vital for BMW warranty, now it’s good to see but if it was done at say 1500 miles it does really matter.
Lovely car 🚙, I used to drive the BMW 335i twin turbo (N54/E93) convertible (dark silver/red leather interior), it was a beautiful and powerful ride, BMW is a drivers car & I regret i sold it, I would have keep it for ever, for my kid when he turns 20 or so... those small bemers are such a beautiful cars. (I used to keep him in the best conditions possible, i just hope the lad i sold him to does the same).
This is literally one of my dream cars I hope I can say I own in the future!
I think it's a great call to keep it; not only is it an outstanding car but if kept for 5-10 years it will probably be a very sound investment worth at least £15k in 5 years time? Yes stuff will break but you are not loosing shed loads in depreciation (often 50%+), which is easily the biggest cost of ownership most people conveniently forget...
Matt I love your car reviews dude.
If possible please could you review these cars:
1) Newer (2016 onwards) Toyota Prius
2) V12 Toyota Century and 3) new Hybrid V8 shape
4)Ford Raptor
5) 200 Series Landcruiser
6) 2005 Toyota Prado V6
7) Mustang V8
8) R34 GTR V Spec Skyline
9) R33 GTR V spec Nismo Skyline (Childhood fav)
10) Toyota Supra manual
11) Nissan 300zx manual
12) Volvo s80 V8
13) Volvo XC70 T6 (2010)
14) Volvo 740
15) E60 BMW M5
16) Volvo 850 T5 R
17) Audi RS4
18) 100 Series Landcruiser diesel
19) Lexus LC500
20) E28 BMW 535
Would be awesome! :)