Introduction (From Auto Express, 19 July 2012)
This limited-edition M3 was a timely reminder of just how high the dynamic benchmark has been set.
BMW launched several limited-edition versions of the E90 era M3 model to keep fresh. This Edition 500 model came packed with £4,000 worth of optional extras for just a £1,000 premium over the standard car.
There were three unique paint colours to choose from – Imola red, Mineral white or the Santorini blue – plus menacing gloss black 19-inch alloy wheels. The individual interior with luxuries like sat-nav, bespoke leather and piano black trim, with laser cut designation showing you’re driving one of the 500 models.
The Edition 500 does without any mechanical changes underneath but there wasn’t much wrong with the naturally aspirated 4.0-litre V8 to start with. Push the ‘M’ button on the steering wheel and pull one of the shifter paddles forward, and it roars into life and the 414bhp still has the power to thrill.
The seven-speed M DCT gearbox provides lightning quick shifts and loud throttle blips on the way down and you can choose how abrupt you want the changes to be, too. It feels tremendously fast and superbly balanced on demanding roads and thanks to the optional (£1,325) electronic dampers, the ride remains composed on even the bumpiest surfaces.
The perfectly weighted steering and strong brakes mean it still leads the way when it comes to sports saloons, but there is a price to pay for all the power. Unlike the turbocharged new M5, the M3 doesn’t come with any fuel saving technology and if you drive it with intent, you’re unlikely to see more than mid-teens for every gallon of unleaded.
Specification
Santorini Blue – BMW Individual
Novillo Extended Leather in Black
7-Speed Double Clutch Transmission
Electronic Damper Control (EDC)
Electric Folding Exterior Mirrors
Sliding Front Armrest
Heated Front Seats
Park Distance Control Front & Rear
Adaptive Headlamps
BMW Professional Media
BMW Business Loudspeaker System
Enhanced Bluetooth
Voice Control
BMW Assist
BMW Assist Online Portal
USB Audio Interface
Anthracite Birch Wood
Smokers Package
First Aid Kit & Warning Triangle
Velour Floor Mats
Description
A BMW dealer demonstrator when new, which was driven mostly by the Sales Manager as his company car, the second owner has cherished it for very nearly 10 years, having purchased it from the supplying dealer in July 2013 at 5,000 Miles
Presented in original condition having had no paintwork or accident damage in its lifetime, it benefits from a Full BMW Main Dealer Service History with each invoice included in the file of paperwork that comes with the car.
With only a few minor marks, none of which detract from its overall look, this is surely one of the most well presented original examples left of this Limited Edition version.
Service History
Supplied new by Fairfield BMW Leigh On Sea on 4 September 2012
Running In Service by Fairfield BMW on 11 October 2012 @ 1,028 Miles
Oil Service by Fairfield BMW on 10 December 2014 @ 12,041 Miles
Brake Fluid Service by Fairfield BMW on 2 September 2015 @ 14,705 Miles
MOT, 2 September 2015 @ 14,708 Miles
Vehicle Inspection by Fairfield BMW on 1 July 2016 @ 18,098 Miles
MOT, 2 September 2o16 @ 18,298 Miles
Oil Service by Fairfield BMW on 12 December 2016 @ 18,605 Miles
MOT, 18 August 2017 @ 20,559 Miles
MOT, 24 August 2018 @ 23,806 Miles
MOT, 31 August 2019 @ 28,427 Miles
Oil, Intake Silencer & Brake Fluid Service by Fairfield BMW on 2 September 2019 @ 28,427 Miles
MOT, 28 August 2020 @ 31,802 Miles
MOT, 25 August 2021 @ 35,553 Miles
Oil, Microfilter & Brake Fluid Service by Sytner BMW Harold Wood on 22 March 2022 @ 36,143 Miles
MOT, 19 August 2022 @ 36,777 Miles
2 Owners
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