Like most performance models out there, old M3s are more desirable with a fixed roof and manual transmission, but BMW catered for a wider range of customers, not just dyed-in-the-wool petrolheads.

Take this Ε46 Μ3, for instance, that’s listed by Hexagon for £24,995, or $33,420 at today’s exchange rates, and is a Convertible with a six-speed automatic transmission.

For £7,000 ($9,360) less, one could have this M3 E92, which is not only 5 years newer, but drops the E46’s 3.2-liter inline six-cylinder engine for a 4.0-liter V8 that makes over 75hp more and is paired to a proper six-speed manual gearbox.

Whatever purists might think, there’s no denying that this 14-year old M3 is in perfect condition, as its carbon black metallic paint, 18-inch alloy wheels and Imola Red leather interior look almost as good as new.

Moreover, it has only 29,100 miles (46,832km) on the clock, two former owners, and it’s supplied with a full BMW service history and a 12-month written warranty.

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