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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  Classic Sports Roadster - 2000 BMW Z3
  By Larry Fink - May 28 - 2:00 am

  Great summer time fun car. Mine has never seen snow. Never leaves the garage with the soft top up. Either topless or with the hard top when ever going out.

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  What more could you want? - 2000 BMW Z3
  By MEDniK - May 26 - 2:00 am

  Having owned a few british convertibles, this is probably the car they wish theyd made, and the slew of Japanese convertibles just dont have the flair that BMW have injected into this amazing car. Incredible road holding, unfaltering acceleration and striking styling are second to none in this price range. The obsession with the plastic rear window eludes me - true high performance convertible roadsters wear the plastic rear window with pride!

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  Looks Great - 2000 BMW Z3
  By mikeyg - May 23 - 2:00 am

  Fun to drive and classy looks. A real headturner. Just a beautiful looking sports car that stands out from the crowd. mfg11@aol.com

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  98 BMW Z3 - 1998 BMW Z3
  By AnnieZ - May 11 - 2:00 am

  This little car is the most fun imaginable! While it is no race car, it corners like a champ and literally scoots down the highway.

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  S-W-E-E-T - 2000 BMW Z3
  By ROAD LIZARD - April 29 - 2:00 am

  This car is an experience unlike any other vehicle Ive owned. It handles and performs exceptional. Although it is a 2.3, it has plenty of power and speed to provide a lasting grin for years. The comfort level is better than typical sports car and the interior design puts things right at your fingertips. The cosmetic appearance delivers a classy look that is eye-catching and head-turning. A 5- speed is the only flavor for this Roadster.

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  98 Z3 - 1998 BMW Z3
  By CKC - April 20 - 2:00 am

  Fun to drive. Always dependable.

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  Great Ride - 2000 BMW Z3
  By LMB - April 10 - 2:00 am

  I love driving this car. I really only drive it on pretty days - couldnt stand to see it dirty. I think the car drives great and is so much fun on the open road. I corners great, and has the typical BMW quality. I love the "roadster" look of this car inside and out -- I think the new Z4 looks to much like the Mercedes and doesnt have the same roadster feel.

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  Unique - 2001 BMW Z3
  By stz3coupe - April 8 - 2:00 am

  Bought the car because it is so unique, not allot of people have one. Many may not like the way it looks, but I think it looks great. Added some DINAN upgrades and WOW, nice improvement! The car really involves you in driving. Met plenty of people at work and at the gym who first don’t like the coupe, but soon tend to change their mind. Its easy to follow the crowd, I wanted a car that helps me stand out.

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  So far soooo good - 2002 BMW Z3
  By NU2BMW - April 3 - 2:00 am

  After hearing less than steller reviews of BMW reliability - we bought the Z3 with some caution. However, the car has been just great. It is impossible not to have a grin on your face when youre driving. It is just a blast. I short drive in the Z3 can transform a bad day into a vacation.

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  97 Z3 Value - 1997 BMW Z3
  By NJMarkR - March 17 - 2:00 am

  Overall, even with the 1.9L engine, its not a bad cruising car. Certainly great gas mileage. Being a BMW, I expected a better quality vehicle. This car has less than 15k miles, garage kept, never in rain or snow. The seats rock, the power window buttons fall in the console, gas gauge is eractic and BMW dealers want to charge excessive amounts to repair what shouldnt break within 10k to 15k miles.