One of the rarest colors of the famed E46 BMW M3 has to be Phoenix Yellow. While yellow cars are typically underappreciated, Phoenix Yellow is a particularly unloved color. And, to be honest, we’re not quite sure why. While it wouldn’t be my first choice, personally, it’s a stunning color and one that brings some vibrancy to the rather sedate looking E46 M3. Even if it is a bit mustard-y.

When buying a car like the E46 M3, one should always want a bright and exciting color, as it matches the bright and exciting character of the car. Underneath the hood lies a 3.2 liter I6 engine that screams to redline and makes a sensational metallic wail. Pair that with a six-speed manual gearbox (or SMG auto, but the former is recommended) and the E46 M3 is one of the most exciting cars in BMW’s history.

BMW-E46-M3-phoenix-yellow-25

That’s without mentioning its sublime chassis dynamics and steering that seems as thought it’s connected to the synapses in your brain. BMW enthusiasts have been in love with the E46 M3 since its debut over a decade ago and it’s still one of the most popular cars to ever where a blue and white roundel. It isn’t because of its good looks, it’s because of the way it drives. It’s still the benchmark for its segment.

We’ll take an E46 M3 is any color, really, but this particular Phoenix Yellow example is especially gorgeous.