2004 BMW E46 M3 sells for $23,000 on Bring a Trailer — was it a deal?
This 2004 BMW M3 Convertible sold for $23,000, and that’s strong money for what it is.
The E46 M3 has a cult following, especially in convertible form. This model features the beloved 3.2-liter inline-six, paired with a six-speed manual transmission. That combo is a big draw for purists who want the raw driving experience that only a manual can provide. With 100,000 kilometers (about 62,000 miles) on the clock, this one balances being a driver’s car with collectible status. The Carbon Black Metallic paint and black Nappa leather add a touch of class, while options like the Cold Weather Package and heated front seats make it comfortable for everyday use.
Now, let’s talk numbers. The bidding was hot, with 52 bids pushing the price up significantly. However, the fair value estimate was pegged at $15,100. That means this M3 sold for 52% above fair value. While the excitement in the bidding indicates strong interest, the final price suggests buyers may have overreached a bit. For context, the Deal Score was a low 0.0/10, indicating that this sale was overpriced based on comparable sales data.
Community feedback was pretty positive, with one user noting, “Thanks for the bids and comments, this was a good buy.” That sentiment reflects the enthusiasm around the E46 M3, even if the price might raise eyebrows among more cautious buyers.
For anyone hunting a similar car, keep an eye on mileage and service history. High-mileage examples can still be gems, but you want to ensure the maintenance records are solid. A well-documented service history can make a big difference in value and peace of mind. So, if you see an M3 that’s been well cared for, especially with a manual transmission, it could be worth your attention, even if the bidding gets heated.
See all BMW E46 M3 listings on [Friday's Watchlist](https://fridayswatchlist.com/search?make=BMW&model=E46%20M3).
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