One to Buy: 1 owner 21,000 mile Interlagos Blue 2005 BMW E46 M3 Competition Pack SMG II
In March 2001, 18 months after the E46 M3’s launch, BMW added their Sequential Manual Gearbox II to the options list (SMG II). Following on from the original SMG unit offered on the E36 M3, this second generation semi-automatic gearbox used an electro-hydraulically actuated clutch and offered gear shifting via either the gear lever or paddles mounted on the steering wheel.
Eleven different software modes were available (six in sequential driver-operated mode and five in fully automatic mode). There was also a Launch Control function that optimised shift times for the fastest possible acceleration from a standing start.
Another desirable option was then added towards the end of E46 M3 production in December 2004 when BMW introduced the Coupe-only Competition Pack (known as Club Sport in the UK).
As part of the Competition Pack, buyers got bigger front brake discs, a quicker steering rack and 19-inch cross-spoke alloy wheels (all from the CSL), milled aluminium-effect interior trim, an Alcanatara steering wheel and Dynamic Stability Control (which was re-tuned to intervene at a higher threshold than normal).
Competition Pack buyers could also request a special Interlagos Blue Metallic paint option.
One car with all of these expensive options (the SMG II ‘box, the Competition Pack and Interlagos Blue paint) is currently on offer at the Hexagon Classics showroom in London.
Completed in 2005 as one of just 233 Competition Pack variants delivered to the UK, this one owner car has covered a little under 21,000 miles and must rank among the best examples of its type.
Reprinted below is Hexagon Classics’ description:
BODY STYLE: Coupe
YEAR: 2005
MILEAGE: 20,950
EXTERIOR COLOUR: Interlagos Blue Metallic
INTERIOR COLOUR: Black Leather
Hexagon Classics are delighted to offer this very special low-mileage BMW M3 E46 CS Coupe which is finished in desirable Interlagos Blue metallic paint.
Just 233 right-hand drive cars were produced for the UK market, making this a rare modern BMW classic.
As a one owner car with a complete BMW main dealer history this example is very special indeed and is likely to be the best existing example.
