1997-BMW-M3-Sedan-Black

1997 BMW M3 Sedan 5-speed Manual

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Make: BMW

Model: M3

Year: 1997

Location: Bozeman, MT

Mileage: 196,513

VIN: 123ABC456DEF7

Drive train: 3.2l Inline-6, 5-speed manual

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Revolving Garage

The 1997 (E36) BMW M3 Sedan is an iconic car. The E36 M3 sedan was only available for years 1997 and 1998, and it came with a 3.2l 240bhp inline-6. This car has the standard ZF 5-speed manual transmission. It is cast in Cosmos Black over black leather.

This particular car has 196,513 miles. It's history shows that it was imported and first registered in Seattle, WA. The registration history shows it stayed around the Seattle area until it was purchased and moved to Bozeman, Montana by its current owner. The paint is consistent with the mileage as stone chips are evident on the front bumper and hood. There is no perceivable rust.

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Revolving Garage

This E36 M3 sedans were produced for model year 1997 and 1998 only, and there were less than 6,000 manuals imported to the US. It is driven by the 240bhp US spec S52 inline-6 mated to a ZF 5-speed manual transmission that drives the rear wheels.

This car features the Luxury package, which contains a wood-look trim package and the more desirable Lux front heated seats. There are also front and side impact airbags for the front passengers. A six-disc CD changer sits in trunk, and the original tape deck head unit provides sound through the Harmon Kardon sound package. The front seats are power adjustable and heated, though the drivers seat heat is not operational. All windows are functional, as well as heat and air-conditioning. The headliner is in perfect shape as well and does not sag like many E36s.

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Recent service includes rear shock mounts, water pump, and engine mounts. Shocks, springs, and suspension bushings appear to be in good order, and the car drives beautifully.

The paint and body shows its age and miles. There are significant rock chips on the front clip and hood, but beyond that the paint is in great shape consistent with a driven and enjoyed car. There are two door dings (addressable with PDR) on the right rear door, and one on the trunk.

The interior leather is in good condition with the exception of the drivers seat. The drivers seat is significantly worn, but not ripped. This run of M3 used Montana leather because BMW ran into a supply issue for the Nappa leather.

Lastly, the owner recently installed Depo HID headlight housings with 55watt HID ballasts. This upgrade the stock US lighting significantly.