BaT Auction: 42k-Mile 1998 BMW M3 Sedan 5-Speed

This 1998 BMW M3 sedan is finished in Techno Violet Metallic over gray Nappa leather and is powered by a 3.2-liter S52 inline-six paired with a five-speed manual transmission and a limited-slip differential. Equipment includes 17″ alloy wheels, power-adjustable front seats, automatic climate control, cruise control, a power sunroof, and an AM/FM/cassette stereo. The car was first registered in California and spent time in Oregon, Missouri, and Texas prior to the selling dealer’s acquisition in August 2021. Service since 2020 has included replacing the radiator, water pump, thermostat, and expansion tank, as well as rebuilding the steering rack. This M3 has 42k miles and is offered with manufacturer’s literature, service records, a clean Carfax report, and a clean Missouri title.

The car is finished in Techno Violet Metallic and features a sunroof and fog lights as well as M3-specific bumpers, side skirts, and mirrors. Service in 2020 reportedly included replacing the windshield and front grilles, and the front wheel well liners, splitter, and air ducts are said to have been replaced by the selling dealer. Paint meter readings are shown in the gallery below.

Staggered-width 17″ M Double Spoke wheels are wrapped in Michelin Pilot Super Sport tires measuring 225/45 up front and 245/40 out back. A style 23 spare wheel with Michelin rubber is stored in the trunk. Service in February 2020 included replacement of the power steering reservoir and rebuilding the steering rack, while the front and rear brakes are said to have been replaced in preparation for the sale. A BMW factory X-brace has been installed.

The seating surfaces are trimmed in gray Nappa leather with matching door panel inserts and are complimented by a gray dashboard and carpeting. Amenities includes power-adjustable front sport seats, automatic climate control, cruise control, and an AM/FM/cassette stereo. The seller states the driver’s power seat gears, front door handles, rear door pockets, and headliner were replaced under prior ownership.

The leather-wrapped steering wheel frames a 160-mph speedometer, a tachometer with a 7k-rpm redline and an inset fuel-economy gauge along with readouts for fuel level and coolant temperature. The digital odometer indicates 42k miles, a handful of which have been added by the selling dealer.

The 3.2-liter S52 inline-six was rated at 240 horsepower and 236 lb-ft of torque when new. Service in February 2020 included replacing the radiator, water pump, thermostat, pulleys, and battery along with the coolant and expansion tanks.

Power is sent to the rear wheels through a five-speed manual transmission and limited-slip differential. The fifth gear and reverse detents were replaced in February 2020, and transmission and differential flushes were carried out at the same time.

The Carfax report shows no accidents or other damage and lists registration history in California, Oregon, and Missouri.

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