Specifications
Highlights
• The coveted ZHP Performance Package
• 6-Speed Manual
• Fully Rejuvenated by EAG
EAG Impressions
Building on the success of the E36, the E46 3-Series refined BMW's compact luxury formula. Its design was evolutionary rather than revolutionary, maintaining the brand's signature styling cues. While European buyers had access to a wide range of diesel and petrol engines, U.S. models were primarily offered with inline-six powerplants. The performance gap between European and U.S. models narrowed significantly with this generation, particularly with the M3. Both markets received the same high-revving 3.2L S54 engine, though European models still enjoyed a slight power advantage due to less restrictive emissions equipment.
Overview
The E46 platform expanding on BMW's performance and luxury ethos in a very big way when compared to the previous models. It ushered in a timeless design, multiple models to choose from, an M variant once again touting individual throttle bodies, but for many enthusiasts it struck a cord with its Performance Package 330. For those who know, they know, and we're excited to share some information on three letters that started a Mafia and the most popular shift knob BMW ever produced. The E46 ZHP.
Available in all the models (minus the touring much to all enthusiast's dismay) it was the option you checked if you were looking to indulge in the performance aspects of the E46 without diving into the Motorsport offerings. The ZHP has subtle upgrades galore that include upgrades cams, shorter final drive, and higher redline. It also had the option for alcantara steering wheel, parking brake, and shift knob boot. The latter being one of the most iconic shift knob based on its functionality with heavy weight and design that still finds its way into modern manual transmission BMWs. The interior differences didn't end there though with the instrument cluster donning red needles and specific to the ZHP black cube trim on the dash that extends to the door panels no matter if it was a coupe or sedan.
The exterior was also fitted with a more aggressive front and rear bumper as well as Style 135 wheels. It was a perfect blend of little things that add up to an incredible package. It was BMW showcasing it was listening to the reasonable enthusiast. It was, and is, for those not taking the racetrack to work but always opting for the backroads.
History
This properly optioned ZHP is a new arrival for EAG! It came to us from a true enthusiast with service history dating all the way back to 2006. It continually received all of the maintenance required following the old school mentality. EAG performed its Comprehensive Inspection and subsequently serviced as well as upgraded common service concerns. These services include valve cover gasket, oil filter housing gasket, both ABS pressure sensors, power steering pressure line, engine drive belts, proactive cooling system overhaul, rear axle seals, rear differential cover and mount, and new Michelin Pilot 4S tires. We also rejuvenated its appearance with a headliner recondition, all of the cloth pillar covers, steering wheel trim, and all of the soft touch plastic components. Over $17k invested into this example!
We are proud to offer this always cared for ZHP and now fully rejuvenated example as an opportunity to relive an analog experience only found 20 years ago.
Gallery
Documentation
