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 Classic in all Respects - 1997 BMW Z3
  By PotomacBob - June 12 - 6:17 pm

  While in college in the late 1960s, I owned an Austin Healey 100-4. The Z-3 I purchased in 1997 had all the elements that I loved about the Austin Healey. The 6 cylinder in a must for the Z-3 and frankly the only color to consider if you are an aficionado is the dark green with tan interior and top. Any one who reports that there is insufficient power or that the top is too hard to put up is not a roadster devotee. Boys, step aside and let the real men tell you what constitutes a genuine sports car. Thank you BMW for bringing back a car that is in the lineage of the Austin Healey, Morgan and MG.

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  Cruising Top Down - 1999 BMW Z3
  By Martin - May 27 - 8:53 pm

  Sweet looking car. Its very quick and nimble. Drove it 5,000 mi this winter from Florida to NH. Handles great in snow. With cruise control got over 30 mpg traveling 75 mph. Love to drive around with top down and wind in my hair.

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  I Miss My Girl - 2001 BMW Z3
  By Kufa - May 17 - 2:35 pm

  I bought my car in 2001 brand new! In 2009 some hater totaled it in the blink of an eye. I literally cried for 3 days. I didnt lease it I bought it as an investment. I had it 8 years and 3 of those years it was paid for. I loved driving my bimmer - we were one. Her turning ratio was fantastic, pickup speed fabulous and just and all around classy car.

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  Wonderful Little Car - 2000 BMW Z3
  By wcohn - April 26 - 2:50 pm

  As a mid-life crisis car, this vehicle stands out. People acost me everywhere with a nice car. In spite of all that, its simply a wonderful drive. Find a nice uncrowded country road on a nice day, put the top down and turn up the stereo. This will validate everything about getting it. Ive had mine since 2002 (its 2010 now), and I have no thought of selling it. Stay on top of maintenance (BMW service is expensive), in order to minimize theses costs and maximize utility and fun.

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  Amazing! - 2000 BMW Z3
  By Pong123 - February 20 - 9:08 am

  I have enjoyed my Z for a number of years. I love the performance and how it hugs the road. My only complaint would be the heater knob. The wire that adjusts the heat has broke 3 times and is not cheap to fix. Other than this I have not had any problems. I thought about upgrading to a Z4 but I just love the style and reliability of my Z. Great investment! Sweet ride!

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  I love my Z3 - 1997 BMW Z3
  By Bamz62 - February 15 - 8:54 pm

  I have wanted this car since I saw it in GoldenEye and the deal I got was just too good to pass up. It had only 29,000 mi on it when I bought it and everything in all the reviews that drivers had issues with had already been fixed (her father owned a BMW dealership) so it was perfect. I am 52" so it fits me to a T and I just drove 400 mi this weekend and was totally comfortable. Every day I drive it someone comments on what a beautiful car it is and I agree. It is not for everyone, larger drivers will not be comfortable, but they can buy any other car. It runs like a dream and is very reliable, most parts that I have had to replace were the originals. I intend to keep it forever.

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  2000 2.3 Z3 Roadster - 2000 BMW Z3
  By Z3 - February 4 - 8:44 pm

  I have always liked the smooth lines and sleek look of the Z3. Finally bought a 2000 with 21K miles. Its a blast to drive, cornering is fantastic and it has plenty of power to spare.

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  Fun to drive - 2001 BMW Z3
  By Bill - January 30 - 4:55 pm

  I bought my 2001 Z3 3.0 a month ago & have loved every minute of it. Very nice ride & comfort for a roadster. The I6 is very quick & responsive. Very tight and solid ride with no rattles. Averaging about 24 mpg mixed highway and city. Very quiet for a convertible. Top is very tight.

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  Never sold in Canada, got one anyway - 1999 BMW Z3
  By Canuck Chuck - January 27 - 9:38 am

  The base 2.8 Coupe was never sold in Canada. I bought my 99 in 2007 in western NY, 49xxx orig. miles. It now has 77xxx miles. Its now in its third Canadian winter. Only failures have been PCV valve and battery. Replaced the water pump at 54xxx miles before it broke (they all do). Unbelievable attention getter. Mine is one of 3 in our city of about 1 mill. Fantastic to drive in all conditions. Have a good set of snows on it, am only stopped by 6" or more dumps of snow, and then only until plowed. Heater is great, love the heated seats. If you dont want attention, then dont drive this car. I get questions and offers all the times. Chicks dig it.

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  Amazing 2 Seat Convertible - 1996 BMW Z3
  By Z3 Man - December 9 - 1:20 am

  Ive had my Z for about a month now and have had nothing but pure joy. Styling is amazing. So sleek and smooth. No doubt it has aged perfectly and will continue to age much better than the the Z4. People will ask what year it it is and I tell them to guess. Their average guess is 2002 lol. Lots of people complain about performance, but luckily mine came with a supercharger made specifically for the 96 Z3 and boosted the power to 225hp. Yup thats right horsepower more than the 6 cylinder. Handling is perfect, you can go around a curve at 50 miles an hour when it suggests 35 with ease and comfort. All in all a great car that will age perfectly and last forever.