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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  your classic roadster - 1999 BMW Z3
  By polidata - June 4 - 2:00 am

  loads of fun to drive, corners as if on rails, but can be a bit rough over road imperfections. has all the essential features of a classic roadster plus modern conveniences, automatic top operation, a/c etc. still draws the looks from everyone, works fine as an everyday car for most days (i dont take it out in the snow to avoid salty roads). you can even lock it with the top down due to its anti-theft device (location dependent of course) as all storage compartments can be locked independently. a perfect car for the young exec/professional seeking a significant other or for the empty nesters.

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  Ziss car iz Wunderbar! - 1998 BMW Z3
  By Mike-Pt. Townsend WA - June 2 - 2:00 am

  It took me 2 months to find just the right car, a 98 Black on Black with a remov hardtop & Auto (i know, i know... I did say it was for my wife didnt I? Besides, it has a decent manual shift option) I buy and sell up to 100 cars per month so cars are pretty much a commodity to me. But, this car gets ME excited! Stylish, powerful, agile, and shhhh even affordable, dont tell everyone or the cachet will be lost. 2 mos after handing her the keys, and my wife is still grinning.

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  Found a 96 with 18K miles - 1996 BMW Z3
  By DL - May 22 - 2:00 am

  Had few problems with this car. Both the roof and trunk leak. Difficult to shift into first. Engine revs beautifully. People treat you like you are driving a very expensive and exotic car.

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  Great little car!!! - 2000 BMW Z3
  By medblom - May 22 - 2:00 am

  If your looking for a great used late model sports car look for a 2000 or newer 2.3. There are some great deals out there.

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  Careful - 1st Model Year! - 1996 BMW Z3
  By No longer a BMW fan - May 2 - 2:00 am

  This was my dream car - or so I thought. Stylings beautiful, but BMW missed the boat on designing this car for longevity. The car has literally been falling apart since it was about a year old...roof leaks, pieces falling off the dash, the door handles pulling out of the door, seat belt locking, air bag light staying on for first 5 minutes after starting the car. And, of course, once the warranty was up, the worst starting happening...and it costs a fortune to fix!

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  My Z3 is fun...but it can be improved - 1996 BMW Z3
  By Z3Luvr - May 2 - 2:00 am

  Bought my Z3 used with 40k miles and mint overall condition. It is very fun car to drive and the top should always be kept down. Most people that say this car is too slow never drive it properly. The M44 engine must be driven with the revs up above 3500rpm, which can be labeled as annoying for some and fun for others.

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  BMW Z3 2.8 (6 cyclinder) - 1998 BMW Z3
  By andre - April 28 - 2:00 am

  This car is a dream come true. I grew up with friends who drove used MGs, Triumphs,Sprites,and even one 1960 Austin-Healy 3000.I wanted a sports car that didnt need so much attention. I bought a 1998 2.8 Z3 last year. It is the most incredible car I have ever driven.It has more power than I will ever need, and is incredibly agile. And even though there are some "roadster type" cars on the market with more powerful engines, none are anywhere near as beautiful and stylish as the Z3.The Z3 is The Roadster Defined.Its as if those others are just poor imitations.Bottom line,it is so much fun to drive, that I even enjoy driving to work, and I work at the Post Office.

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  The Most Fun Roadster Yet - 2002 BMW Z3
  By old geezer - April 27 - 2:00 am

  This car is amazing! I bought the 2.5 with about every option which brought the price up to 36K, but it was worth every penny. The steptronic automatic transmission is very smooth in normal mode, and acts like a manual when in sport mode. The cornering is great and the ride is very smooth for a smaller car. As you ride the curvy mountain roads, you want to push it to the max. This roadster is more fun to drive than any I have had.

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  Summer Car in Chicago - 1997 BMW Z3
  By Josh Clarke - April 25 - 2:00 am

  Its great and doesnt smell inside. Nothing beats a top down day cruising the streets of Chi-town.

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  Z3 - Fun to Drive - 1996 BMW Z3
  By bobricher - April 24 - 2:00 am

  The 1.9 engine might be underpowered, but the car has plenty of pick up. The drive is very comfortable and smooth. This car is top down driving at its finest. Ive been getting about 31.5 MPG. Its very reliable and a pleasure to own.