Overview & Reviews

The BMW Z3 knew how to make an entrance. It claimed the gun-barrel-shaped spotlight along with Pierce Brosnan in the James Bond flick GoldenEye shortly before its introduction for model-year 1996. This celebrity-like intro, combined with the fact that the car was BMW's first modern mass-market roadster, gave the Z3 instant popularity. Neiman Marcus' 1995 Christmas catalog showcased the luscious sports car as the perfect Christmas gift, and it launched a sales stampede that resulted in sold-out Z3 numbers for BMW before the first model even hit showroom floors.

The Z3's romance with the public proved to be long-lasting. Although riding on an antiquated semi-trailing-arm rear suspension from the E30 3 Series, the BMW Z3 was nevertheless a stylish, fun roadster that re-energized the affordable sports car market. Initially offered with only a 1.9-liter 138-horsepower inline-4 engine, a 2.8-liter inline-6 making 190 hp became available in 1997. (They could be differentiated by wider rear fenders.) It was the straight-6 engine, with its flawlessly smooth power delivery and distinctive sound, that really made the Z3 come alive. Handling was impeccable. The Z3's ride was taut enough to satisfy enthusiasts, yet agreeable enough to make it a pleasant daily driver. And from a buying and owning perspective, the Z3 neatly straddled the line between entry-level roadsters like the Miata and more out-of-reach models like the 911.

Still, the BMW Z3 had its shortcomings. Some interior materials were subpar and its cabin could seem confining for larger occupants because of the big, non-telescoping steering wheel and oversize rearview mirror. Convertible models were also saddled with a chintzy plastic rear window that sullied the car's luxury image by clouding over time. Finally, the coupe's styling was highly polarizing.

But these imperfections are pretty minor. As a used sports car, its more reasonable prices place it within reach of those who may not have been able to afford its lofty pleasures had they attempted to purchase it years ago as a new vehicle. If you're in the market for a stunning used coupe or convertible that handles even better than it looks, you owe it to yourself to investigate this talented Bimmer.

Most Recent BMW Z3

As one of the first vehicles to roll out from BMW's Spartanburg, South Carolina, plant, the Z3 was built from 1996-2002. In its first year on the market, the Z3 came in just one flavor: a base-model convertible powered by a 1.9-liter inline-4 good for 138 hp. Standard features included an AM/FM/cassette player and cruise control. A five-speed manual transmission was also standard, but those seeking a somewhat less interactive driving experience could choose a four-speed automatic. Leather seats and traction control were available options. The following year is when the Z3 truly blossomed, thanks to the addition of another trim, the 2.8. As its name implies, this trim was powered by a 2.8-liter inline-6 – the same lauded 190-hp six-cylinder that powered 3 Series models of the era. The Z3 also got a luxury upgrade, with the addition of a CD changer and heated seats to its options list.

With the 1998 model, this BMW became more readily adaptable to inclement weather, thanks to the introduction of an optional power convertible top. In 1999, the Z3 coupe arrived. Equipped with the 2.8-liter engine only, its hatchback design added extra body stiffness and versatility, but its strange tail drew guffaws of disgust and befuddlement amongst those who felt it was smearing the beautiful Z3. That year, the 1.9-liter four-cylinder bowed out in favor of a new 170-hp inline-6. Despite the 2.5-liter displacement, the model was strangely called a Z3 2.3 for 1999 and 2000. A Harman Kardon stereo became available, and a hardtop roof joined the options list on convertible models. Safety was enhanced with the addition of side airbags to the standard features list of all Z3 sports cars.

Minor exterior and interior refreshes were in store for the BMW Z3 coupe and convertible in 2000, and stability control joined the standard features list. For 2001, the 2.8 trim in both the coupe and convertible became the 3.0i, with the introduction of a 3.0-liter engine good for 225 hp and 214 pound-feet of torque. The logically rechristened 2.5i saw a power increase of 14 horses. Also, the Z3's optional four-speed automatic transmission was replaced with a five-speed automatic with manual shifting capability. For 2002, its final year on the market, the BMW Z3 added a CD player to its standard features list.

User Reviews:

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  Juliewestlake - 1999 BMW Z3
  By Juliewestlake - January 29 - 2:23 pm

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  exceeded expectations - 2001 BMW Z3
  By camaronal7 - December 28 - 2:00 am

  Press the gas pedal and the car responds in any gear, at any RPM level. Acceleration is smooth not jerky, while the engine hums lowwww. Quiet for a convertible up to ~ 80mph. The wind guard (accessory) makes top-down driving comfortable at higher speeds and cooler weather. More room and comfort than the Boxster.

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  LT2s Z3 - 2000 BMW Z3
  By LTT - December 20 - 2:00 am

  Beautiful car in all aspects. Tremendously fun to drive. Plenty of power, corners like its on rails. Very comfortable, plenty of leg room. Youll fall in love with one.

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  2000 BMW Z Coupe 2.8 - 2000 BMW Z3
  By Canyonlands - October 18 - 2:00 am

  How can you beat this car? What else are you going to drive some car you see on every corner. Ive considered many others including Minis, Boxsters and M3s. I see them all the time and Im so glad of my choice. I have people asking me about the car all the time. People wondering what it is and if Id sell it. Yeah right! Ive had over 40 cars, mostly that fall into the fun category. This easily is the coolest little car I I know of within $30K of what they can be had for.

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  Completely awesome! - 1997 BMW Z3
  By evopanop - October 15 - 2:00 am

  Atlanta Blue with Tan interior, and Automatic transmission. I cant say Ive had ANY problems with the car. Well, aside from the whole plastic rear-window on the soft top. Other than that one little annoyance, I cant say theres anything else wrong with the car.

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  Bulletproof - 2000 BMW Z3
  By Mike33 - October 4 - 2:00 am

  I have owned my Z for four years. I have driven it hard daily. I have had it back to the dealer once and that was for an oil change. I still love the cars looks and enjoy driving it in all kinds of weather.

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  Best Little Sports car on the used marke - 1998 BMW Z3
  By BeaterBMW - September 28 - 2:00 am

  Great car! bulletproof!! Only lacks usable cup holders.

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  SWEEEEET!!!!!!! - 2002 BMW Z3
  By deewaye - September 3 - 2:00 am

  I really cant say much bad about the car...I love the looks and the aggressive style. The 3.0 is the way to go. Everyone who is an enthusiast wants the 3.0 over the 2.5 The motor is great, tranny superb, and the handling is out of sight. I have noticed fairly quick wear on the tires. But, I do drive it with authority..If you can find one in good shape get it..The car is gonna be a classic!!!!!

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  Individual style flawless performance - 1999 BMW Z3
  By CT Car Nut - August 8 - 2:00 am

  Z3s give a great modern interpretation of a classic roadster. We all know how they look so IÂ’m not going to talk about that. With 70,000 miles of New England driving I can say I have had few problems. I bought my 2.3 from lease trade in. My dealer replaced the front control arms after I test drove the car. I noticed nothing wrong in the test drive so IÂ’m not sure why they replaced them but I guess I can just be happy they did. The only other item was the air bag light came on at about 55,000 miles and to turn it off the seat belt receptacle needed to be replace for $400. The rest has been change oil and filers and brakes just normal maintenance

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  The best roadster par none - 1998 BMW Z3
  By John Defiori - August 4 - 2:00 am

  Bought a 1998 BMW Z3 Roadster with the 2.8 six and automatic transmission. Flawless built quality, strong flexible engine, unmatched reliabilty (My Porsche has been back to the dealership three times for "repairs" since Ive owned the BMW. The only problem with this car is I cant get it away from my wife!