BMW’s E46 M3 Touring remained a prototype, leaving enthusiasts to build their own versions of the six-cylinder wagon. British restoration and coachbuilding specialist Petroyle is now offering a more structured route to ownership, with a planned run of 50 cars and pricing starting at £130,000.
The inspiration dates to 2000, when BMW developed an E46 M3 Touring to evaluate the practicality of adding the body style to its range. Incorporating the M3’s rear suspension, widened bodywork and structural requirements into a wagon presented several challenges. The resulting car never entered production and remained out of public view until 2016.
PERIOD-CORRECT APPROACH
Petroyle’s first completed example takes a largely standard approach to the E46 M3 formula. Finished in Laguna Seca Blue with a tan leather interior, it combines the naturally aspirated 3.2-liter S54 inline-six with a six-speed manual transmission and rear-wheel drive. PistonHeads lists output at 343 metric horsepower and 269 lb-ft of torque, with a reported curb weight of 1,570 kilograms, or approximately 3,461 pounds.
The bodywork requires considerably more intervention. Petroyle manufactures the Touring-specific rear bumper, side sills, luggage-compartment floor and front fenders in carbon fiber, while retaining steel rear quarter panels. The company says carbon offers advantages in weight, strength and manufacturing cost for a project of this scale. A carbon front bumper and roof are optional.
Structural changes include reinforcement of the rear axle carrier panel to address the E46’s known cracking problem, along with additional strengthening to increase the Touring shell’s torsional rigidity. Petroyle says its first completed car has also allowed it to refine the fabrication process for subsequent commissions.
BUILT TO ORDER
The initial car retains standard M3 suspension and a period-style cabin, but customers can take a different direction. Petroyle offers bespoke paint, upholstery and interior finishes, along with alternative drivetrain configurations that include BMW M V8 and V10 conversions. The company also advertises the availability of rare zero-mile S54 engines.
Interest had already translated into orders by the time PistonHeads drove the first car in May. The publication reported that more than 20 of the planned 50 examples were spoken for, with five in build. For buyers seeking the original E46 combination of a high-revving six, manual gearbox and wagon body, Petroyle is turning BMW’s feasibility study into a limited series of customer commissions.
MORE INFORMATION: petroyle.uk
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