Or read in:
A BMW E46 in this condition is a rarity. A genuine time capsule, cherished with care since 1998.
What a delightful motor car. Drive it and you feel it immediately. Look at it and you are convinced at once; the condition of this BMW is exceptionally good.
And then there is the colour. Alpine White III, one of BMW’s most iconic shades. First introduced in 1970, it has never disappeared from the marque’s colour palette. During the 1990s it became particularly popular on many of BMW’s M models, to name just one example.
The original E46 alloy wheels present beautifully and are fitted with a matching set of quality tyres. Then there is the interior. The upholstery still retains its original texture and appearance. The steering wheel looks much as it did in 1998, free from the wear and shiny patches so often seen. The dashboard remains wonderfully original, complete with its factory BMW audio system and displays that still illuminate exactly as they should. This is how you hope to find one, although the reality is that you almost never do.
This E46 was discovered in Germany by a dedicated specialist, having remained with its second owner for many years. Its condition was considered so remarkable that the 318i was brought to the Netherlands, where the final details were attended to. Working on cars like this is a pleasure in itself. It is immensely satisfying to see details such as the original zinc-coated fasteners still looking fresh and untouched. The car radiates originality from every angle. Even the underside appears as though it has covered little more than 10,000 kilometres. The engine bay is clean, correct and unmodified, with deep black plastics and original factory decals still present throughout.
No unpleasant noises, no rattles and no issues. Simply a car that has been carefully maintained, meticulously cleaned and genuinely cherished. Take a close look at the headlamps; the lenses are virtually as new. The original amber indicators remain exactly as BMW intended in 1998. The factory BMW tilt-and-slide sunroof operates beautifully. The paintwork is in excellent condition throughout. Even the kidney grilles remain original, finished in black as they left the factory.
Finding an E46 is easy. Finding one like this is something else entirely.
The delightful and dependable four-cylinder petrol engine has proven its worth for decades. It offers ample torque, plenty of power and operates with remarkable refinement. The automatic gearbox shifts smoothly and almost imperceptibly, exactly as a BMW should.
It is so unique that you really have to see it to believe it. After all, how is a car nearly thirty years old able to present itself in this condition? It is a testament to the care and restraint shown by its owners throughout its life. Unsurprisingly, the BMW has had just two owners from new, the last being a lady owner who cherished it for many years.
Perhaps it hardly needs mentioning, yet it deserves to be said: the climate control air conditioning works correctly, the headlining remains perfectly in place, the original sunroof opens and closes as intended, and all equipment functions exactly as it should.
Are there any imperfections? Very few. On the right-hand side there is a tiny blemish, so small that many people will never notice it. Beyond that, there is little to comment on. It is simply a wonderful travelling companion, but above all a true enthusiast’s car, one that I will hand over with genuine pleasure to its next custodian.
Originally delivered in Germany, the BMW is accompanied by its complete service booklet, showing a consistent history of maintenance. This documentation ties in perfectly with the subsequent Dutch servicing, most recently carried out on our behalf. The original handbook pack is complete, and three keys are present, two of which feature remote central locking.
For business users, this BMW is equally attractive. As a qualifying youngtimer, the favourable Dutch tax regulations remain applicable, meaning company-car tax is calculated on the current market value rather than the original list price.
There is much more that could be said about this BMW. Ultimately, however, the best impression is formed from behind the wheel. You are warmly welcome to view and drive the car by appointment in Uden. The coffee will be ready.
Waarom deze BMW 3-serie?
Unique and increasingly difficult to find in this condition
All functions operating as intended
Just two owners from new
Rare and highly attractive colour combination
Genuine collector’s item
Export.
Premium British Motoring attracts enthusiasts from all over the world, and it shows: around half of our cars find their way to neighbouring countries. Naturally, we take care of the entire process, from purchase to export documentation, with insurance arranged if required. We speak Dutch, English and a touch of German, ensuring a smooth and personal experience.
Technical information.
Registered in: NL, EU
license plate: KGJ-67-L
Origin: DE
Registration NL: 17-04-2026
First registration: 17-08-1998
MOT expiry date: 06-05-2027
Mileage: 134.062km
Cylinder bore: 1895cm3
Engine type: 4 cylinders in line setting
Output: 87kW/118PK
Financial.
BMW E46 318i – Alpinweiss 3 – 134.062km – Y1998Fixed price: €7.490,-
Trading in? Gladly!
