Since 1975, BMW’s hugely successful 3-Series has been a serious contender in the compact executive car market, and has spawned the iconic M3 along the way. The 3-Series is considered the gateway to BMW sedan ownership for many, whether it’s a brand-new one straight off the factory floors, or a pre-owned one going to an eagerly waiting new owner. This 2005 BMW 330Ci ZHP is a fine example of the fourth generation, popularly known as the E46. It’s a convertible, as well as an original ZHP model, which is a performance package for the North American market. The ZHP package added cosmetic as well as mechanical upgrades to the car. This example has done just 67,100 miles so far, and represents a fine mix of style, drop-top practicality, and exciting performance. Three keys as well as the owner’s manual and booklets are included in the sale.

Exterior and Interior

This 2005 BMW 330Ci ZHP presents itself in a dark gray paintwork that looks almost black, and sports a matching black convertible top. Further personifying the performance machine mien are the silver multi-spoke alloys that wear low-profile Michelin Pilot Sport 4S high-performance tires that are reportedly new. At the rear, twin tailpipes on the left hand side of the bumper signify that this may not be the mighty quad-exhaust-wielding M3, but it’s still potent. The interior continues the dark theme with accommodations for four on black leather seats. A strip of lighter carbon fiber trim bisects the top and bottom halves of the dash for some interesting visual acuity. Being a premium German product, you’ve got ample tech for 2005, including climate control, electrically adjustable front seats with seat heaters, an infotainment system with color screen, CD player, Harman/Kardon sound system, multifunction steering wheel, and a set of clear, analog dials with BMW’s signature font. The rev counter is redlined at 6,800rpm, another indicator of the ZHP package which raises the redline from 6,500rpm on regular models.

Engine

This 2005 BMW 330Ci ZHP is from a time when the second and third digit do correspond to engine displacement, and as such, packs a 3.0L (181ci) M54B30 in-line six cylinder that puts out 235hp and 222lb-ft of torque on the ZHP variant, 10hp and 8lb-ft more than a non-ZHP one. This is sent to the rear wheels via a six-speed automatic transmission. The ZHP package also brings sportier camshafts, revised engine tuning including increased redline, shorter final drive, firmer suspension, larger anti-roll bars, lower ride height, and heavy-duty steering rack to name a few things. This car has also reportedly received a new cooling system and undergone a recent oil change.