Every car enthusiast has that one car that started it all, and for me, it’s my BMW E46 328Ci. I bought it when I was just 17, a young car enthusiast with big dreams and a small budget. Over the years, this E46 has been through a lot—transformations, repairs, miles, and memories. Though I moved on to other cars and different builds, this one has always stayed with me. Now, at 26, I’m bringing my first car back to Melbourne from New Zealand, and it’s time to continue the journey we started almost a decade ago.

A Rare Gem with an OEM Aerodynamics Kit

This E46 has one feature that makes it a bit of a rarity today: the original BMW OEM Aerodynamics Package. With its clean lines and sporty enhancements, this kit adds a unique character to the car. Since it’s now discontinued, having an E46 with this original aero package is something I appreciate even more. In preparation for importing the car, we went all out to ensure it’s in top form. The kit underwent extensive plastic welding on the front bumper and side skirts to restore it, and we re-glued and re-welded the exterior moldings and trims to bring back its original appeal. After a full respray, the car now shines in its original factory color, preserving its classic look.

From Automatic to 5-Speed Manual: A Transformation

One of the biggest changes was swapping the transmission from an automatic to a 5-speed manual. This transformation turned the E46 from a smooth cruiser into a more engaging driver’s car. The 5-speed manual brings out the best in the 328Ci’s engine, making it feel more connected to the road and my driving style. I knew early on that the manual swap would be a game-changer, and it’s one of the reasons I’ve held onto this car all these years.

Suspension, Wheels, and Exhaust: The Performance Setup

To make the car even more enjoyable to drive, I installed BC BR Coilovers paired with Hardrace Rear Camber Arms for better handling. This suspension setup gives the E46 a tighter, sportier feel, and lets me adjust it to my preference for street or spirited driving. The car sits on ESR SR01 wheels wrapped in Goodyear Eagle F1 tires, providing a solid stance and dependable grip. For a bit of extra sound and personality, I added a custom muffler delete from Pitstop, giving it a subtle but satisfying exhaust note that makes each drive more enjoyable.

Interior Restoration: Bringing It Back to Life

After years of wear and tear, the interior needed some serious attention. In preparation for bringing the car over to Australia, I reupholstered the A, B, and C pillars and the roof lining in jet black, giving the cabin a clean, cohesive look that enhances the car’s classic vibe. Over time, I’ll continue refreshing the interior, but the reupholstered pillars and roof liner have already transformed it into a more refined space that matches the exterior’s renewed look.

The Journey to Melbourne: Preparing for Import and the Next Chapter

As I plan to bring the E46 over from New Zealand, I’ve been preparing it carefully. During my last visit to NZ, we fixed the door lock barrel, performed a full oil service, and installed a new air filter and cabin filter. The exterior and interior restoration work has been completed, but the next step is to thoroughly clean the underbody before it ships out. With the car now VIA-approved for import to Australia, I’m excited to start the next chapter of this build once it arrives in Melbourne.

Looking Forward: The Dream First Car Build

This E46 328Ci has been a part of my life for nearly a decade, and while it’s not the fastest or newest car I own, it’s the one with the most sentimental value. As it turns 25 years old, I’m more committed than ever to preserving and building it into my dream first car. The journey of owning, maintaining, and improving it over the years has taught me so much, and now, bringing it to Australia feels like a chance to finally complete the vision I had when I was 17.

There’s more work to be done—future upgrades, refinements, and maybe even a few surprises along the way. But this E46 is more than just a car; it’s a piece of my story.