The 2006 BMW M3 that recently appeared on Bring a Trailer wasn’t just another well-optioned example of the model. Its first owner was two-time Indy 500 winner Dan Wheldon, who bought it as a personal reward after claiming both the Indianapolis 500 and the IndyCar championship in 2005.
The car, finished in Carbon Black metallic paint over a brown Nappa leather interior, includes the desirable Competition package and a six-speed manual transmission. It also carries mild upgrades from tuning specialist Dinan, which bumped output to 355 horsepower and 281 pound-feet of torque from the 3.2-liter inline-six engine.
Why this M3 stands out
The E46-generation M3 is often considered the sweet spot of the lineage. Earlier models were raw and buzzy, while later V-8 versions grew heavier. The E46 struck a balance, and this example, from the final year of production, represents what many enthusiasts consider peak spec.
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Under the hood, the naturally aspirated inline-six delivers a 8,000-rpm redline once warmed up. The Dinan upgrades—software, intake, and exhaust—don’t dramatically increase power but sharpen throttle response and amplify the engine’s soundtrack. The six-speed manual transmission avoids the clunkiness of the optional sequential manual gearbox, which felt outdated once dual-clutch setups arrived.
The Competition package adds 19-inch wheels, and the mileage sits at a reasonable 78,000 miles. Inside, the brown leather extends to the headliner, a rare and cohesive touch. The cabin remains refreshingly analog, with physical controls instead of the touchscreen-heavy layouts of modern BMWs. An upgraded Harman Kardon audio system and navigation are among the few concessions to luxury.
This car isn’t just a collector’s item because of its racing pedigree. It’s a practical enthusiast’s choice—fast enough to feel special, but not so rare that you’d hesitate to drive it regularly. The paint, a deep midnight blue, shifts in sunlight, and the Dinan exhaust note makes even mundane drives feel like a victory lap.
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For anyone who’s ever debated whether an M3 is worth the premium over a standard 3 Series, this example answers the question. It’s the kind of car that makes you want to take the long way home, windows down, just to hear the engine sing.
The auction and its context
The Bring a Trailer listing ends on July 22. While the car’s history adds a layer of appeal, its condition and specifications would make it a standout even without the Indy 500 connection. The Dinan upgrades are subtle but effective, and the Competition package ensures it looks as good as it drives.
Wheldon’s ownership adds a compelling narrative, but the car itself is the real draw. It’s a reminder that some machines are built to be driven, not just admired. For a generation of BMW enthusiasts, this is the M3 that got it right.
