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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  A Sportscar for the real world - 1999 BMW Z3
  By White-Z3 - July 18 - 2:00 am

  If you can and do push this car to its limits on the street, you are driving the wrong car in the wrong place. If you want a car that looks great , makes you feel good every time you drive it,and has the comfort for a long trip,then this is the one. The inline six will pull strong in any gear so shifting is almost optional. The car stops - now - without being grabby. I have had no problems in 22k miles. We just drove the BlueRidge Parkway, I think the road was made for the Z3.

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  First Impressions - 2002 BMW Z3
  By kidscifi - July 7 - 2:00 am

  Bought mine yesterday after looking for a month. Gorgeous shape and excellent ride. Power of 3.0 worth it over 2.5. Definitely looking forward to having some serious fun with this car.

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  Fun! Fun! Fun! - 2002 BMW Z3
  By Ed Long - June 25 - 2:00 am

  I bought my Z-3 3.0 (sport package) a couple of months ago and I love it. I am a dyed-in-the-wool BMW owner with this being the 7th that Ive owned. This car is fast, sporty, gets lots of looks and positive comments and blasting around on backroads and even around town is a great deal of fun. Ride is good, handling is solid and the engine and transmission (manual) are an absolute joy. It runs great and handles very well indeed. If I had know it would be this much fun I would have bought one long ago. Just wish it was cooler in Phoenix! I fit fine in it and Im 61" and 230 pounds.

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  Lotza Fun - 1996 BMW Z3
  By jsm - June 24 - 2:00 am

  Great performance even with 1.9L. Sticks to the road - it takes a LOT of effort to make it slide in a turn. Fun factor = 10.

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  Very satisfied customer - 2002 BMW Z3
  By edjrwinnt - June 24 - 2:00 am

  Awesome looking car that really turns heads. Im glad I got the 3.0 liter because I wouldnt want anything slower. Its not real fast but at least I wont kill myself. The front and rear driver side, driving lights went out after about 350 miles of use. I paid a $995 for a factory 6 CD Changer which is ridiculous but I wanted everything to be stock. I was quite surprised that the oil only needs to be changed every 15,000 miles. All the maintenance is included for 3 years at no cost as well. Mine has a beige interior and I wanted a black interior at first, but people warned me about how the hot seats would get since its a convertible.

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  The best car in its class! - 1996 BMW Z3
  By BMW Love - June 19 - 2:00 am

  Many people call the 1996 BMW Z3 underpowered because of its 4 cyld engine, but my friends, they are wrong on every count. The body and engine work as a team, providing on of the fastest cars in its class (4 cyld). NOt only is it the perfect body of a sports car .... its a powerhouse! I fell in love the day I saw the BMW Z3 the first time on the road, I was 12 years old at the time, but I knew that day that the Z3 was the only car for me. Six years later, I own my dream car ... and its everything I immagined it would be, and more. Dont let engine freaks talk you out of buying the 1996 model, just because it says 4 cyl doesnt mean it cant feel like a V12!

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  Z3--best value in pre-owned roadsters - 1996 BMW Z3
  By dannyboy - June 18 - 2:00 am

  I am the 3rd owner of a well-cared-for 1996 meridian blue (James Bonds car from Golden Eyes) Z3. With 49,000 miles on it the only thing needed has been routine maintenance. I avg. 30/mpg using premium fuel. While the 4 clyder engine could use more power, it does well with the 5-speed manual transmission. Definitely just a 2- seater with room for one suitcase or two travel bags. Drives and corners superbly. Will replace it in a few yrs. with another Z3 but with the 2.5L motor. BMW dealer service is expensive with an oil change costing $72.

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  Good...not great..Handling BMW - 1999 BMW Z3
  By Z-Man - June 14 - 2:00 am

  First, let me say, I love this car. It is fun to drive and handles very VERY well. However, bumps in the road will defintely throw this light (2900lb) vehicle. Outside of that and the cupholder being in a very odd place, the car is perfect. The engine sounds wonderful, the interior and exterior detailing is beautiful. The engine runs smooth as silk and corners very nicely. Oh, and if you must indulge in this car, do not forget to find one with heated seats!

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  Z3 coupe - 1999 BMW Z3
  By Max Sirotovsky - June 10 - 2:00 am

  BEST CAR EVER MADE IN THE WHOLE WORLD!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! BEST EVERYTHING.

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  A topless wonder!! - 2002 BMW Z3
  By Bill Fritz - June 6 - 2:00 am

  Bought it used with 3800 miles on it. Has been used for 1 1/2 yrs with total enjoyment. I love this car and keep it garaged and cleaned off after every use. It now has 18000 miles and is still as good as new, a real dream car.