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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  fun and exciting - 2001 BMW Z3
  By Richard Ornstein - February 21 - 2:00 am

  A real drivers roadster.Push it hard,enjoy the fel of a great engine,and just what a roadster should be.This car makes me smile big time.

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  Not quite a vette... - 1997 BMW Z3
  By Rich OConnor - February 15 - 2:00 am

  ...But the next best thing I could afford to buy. Picked mine up at a Porche owned used car dealership complete with Dinan flow through exhaust and modified thottle body boosting HP to 215 or so from stock 195. Has a deep, throaty sound and definitely can keep up with other pocket rockets. The 17 inch wheels/tires also help keep this pup on rails. Loves to cruise right around 80- 85 and has a great rollover through 110- 115. I love driving this car ! Bright white makes this a head turner too !

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  Z3 - fun, reliable... lots of smiles - 2000 BMW Z3
  By Alexei - February 9 - 2:00 am

  Ive thoroughly enjoyed the 2000 2.8 liter Z3 - great performance (196hp - but whats really nice is lots of torque). Its my daily driver - comfortable (Im 61" 225lbs.) with more leg room than my full size Toyota. The car is lot of fun to drive, the only aftermarket item Ive bought is a strut tower brace to dampen body roll whenIm hammering through curves.

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  The little Z3 - 1997 BMW Z3
  By Brian - February 7 - 2:00 am

  Even though my Z3 has the "little" engine it is a blast to drive. It is very reliable and has a lot of get up and go. It is fast, with the 0-60 around 7.7 seconds. Not the fastest car out there, but faster than most. The handling is amazing and it is very easy and comfortable to drive. Get a newer one with the roll hoops if you want people to think it is new. The hoops are the give away that it is a 96 or 97. There are many performance up grades for this engine like a new computer chip, high flow intake, high flow exhaust, and even turbos. But if you need this car to be faster, buy one with the bigger engine.

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  The little Z3 - 1997 BMW Z3
  By BRIAN - February 7 - 2:00 am

  Even though my Z3 has the "little" engine it is a blast to drive. It is very reliable and has a lot of get up and go. It is fast, with the 0-60 around 7.7 seconds. Not the fastest car out there, but faster than most. The handling is amazing and it is very easy and comfortable to drive. Get a newer one with the roll hoops if you want people to think it is new. The hoops are the give away that it is a 96 or 97. There are many performance up grades for this engine like a new computer chip, high flow intake, high flow exhaust, and even turbos. But if you need this car to be faster, buy one with the bigger engine.

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  The red baron flies again - 2001 BMW Z3
  By Roy Kulland - January 31 - 2:00 am

  Ive owned this Z3 coupe for nearly 4 months and it just keeps getting better and better. It is like riding a guided missle - scary fast amazing! I honestly dont have the skill yet to get all the handling and speed of which this car is capable. It really draws the looks and questions too - total fun. Its even a bit more fun after I added the Dinan stage 2 cold air and chip.

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  The best! - 2002 BMW Z3
  By Steve-in-Denver - January 19 - 2:00 am

  This is my 3rd bimmer and, even though I loved the other two (94 325is and 96 325iC), this is the best! This is what I wanted when I bought the 325iC - glad I waited until the Z3 came equipped with the 3.0! What a blast to drive and quite the head turner. I think I will hold on to this one for a while as I am not too impressed with the Z4s styling.

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  UGLY Car but Fast as Hell! - 2002 BMW Z3
  By BimmerChck - January 9 - 2:00 am

  This car was extremely fast however, it was one of the ugliest cars I have ever seen!!

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  2000 Z3 2.3 - 2000 BMW Z3
  By Scott in the Rock - January 7 - 2:00 am

  Bought my 2000 Z3 2.3 Roadster in November 02. Mine is a 5 speed (dont even think about buying this car with an auto transmission, takes the soul right out of a roadster). This car is awsome. It is a blast to drive and gets 2nd looks everywhere. I had some trepidaton at buying a 2.3 model rather than a larger engine model but the 2.3 is plenty for me. If you are considering this car, pull the trigger and join the Z3 family. You can spot us by the gleam in our eye and smile on our face!

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  I Love My New Car - 2002 BMW Z3
  By katti - January 4 - 2:00 am

  Besides the Manual shift, the car is attractive fun to drive and makes me looks very professional and prosperous.