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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  Sexy car - 2000 BMW Z3
  By Stealth - October 18 - 7:38 pm

  Women seem to love this car. I get "nice car" comments from women all the time. A friend of mine has a porsche... and he said he only gets that comment from guys. If I only had this car when I was 19 and still single. Oh well. Even without the fun performance of this car, the sheer enjoyment of being in traffic with the top down on a beautiful summer day is priceless. Makes traffic less painful.

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  FunFunFun! - 1999 BMW Z3
  By WireWheels - October 13 - 10:17 pm

  Most fun to drive Ive ever had. This is my sixth BMW and makes me feel good every time I look at it or drive it.

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  First BMW - 2001 BMW Z3
  By Brandon - October 9 - 6:47 pm

  I recently bought and certified this car. This is an ultimate driving machine. Not only does it run and feel like a roadster should, it comes with the looks and ladies too.

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  my beamer - 2001 BMW Z3
  By bruce jones - September 23 - 4:45 pm

  This car is so much fun to drive, my wife refers to it´s economy as "smiles per gallon". It has the feel of the road and agility of a sports car you would expect,but still rides like a much bigger car. There is no rough ride or road noise like you get from a Miata. It looks so damn nice parked in my yard it makes me smile just looking at it.

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  Silver Bullit - 1997 BMW Z3
  By oldcarguy - September 21 - 7:20 pm

  Great ride and handling with a strong grip. Engine is a bit thrashy for a four, but the car is quick when need be. Great value for the money with good reliablity. One of the greatest styles ever.

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  Enjoy the Sunshine - 1999 BMW Z3
  By Zcarfan - August 23 - 7:32 pm

  Overall I love driving this car. It is great for the Florida sunshine. The 2.3 model has plenty of power when you need it and the gas mileage is close to 35 mpg on the highway. The top is cheeply made and needs a glass window. I also have problems with the fuel sensor malfunctioning regularly. It is a blast to drive around town but use another car if you are going on a long trip.

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  Black 2.5i Convertible - 2001 BMW Z3
  By 4Amy - August 22 - 1:14 pm

  I purchased this one owner car for my wife. It is in amazing condition. The handling is great and it is a real head turner.

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  Sunday Cruiser, Backroad Buster - 2001 BMW Z3
  By PILOT8127 - August 16 - 12:01 am

  BMWs low profile, snearing, snarling front end is what attracted me to the Z3 model. With its flared wheelwells, shark-gill slits and flattend eyebrow headlamps it just speaks motion. After two Corvettes (a 1970, and a 1980), the Z3 had to perform to keep my interest. WOW! Does it perform. With the 3.0 liter engine and AUTOstick tranny, full power burnouts are the norm with the DSC in the off position. The in-line SIX is both smooth and linear, it pulls right from idle and revs quickly. This car is by far the most FUN Ive ever had out on the road. And, it turns heads where ever I go with it. Probably the best bang for the buck in sportscar driving! Try on a Z3 for yourself.

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  I love it, but..... - 1998 BMW Z3
  By Kimberley - July 17 - 8:37 pm

  I bought this car, because of its looks and the price was fantastic!!! I love this car but, let me prequalify, my issues should be more with the previous owner than the manufacturer. The side window gaskets leak something terrible! So much so that the drivers side floor board is soft and spongy. The person that had changed their oil had left the small oil filter gasket in the filter housing on several occasions which resulted in the rings wearing out with time and crumbling into small bits all through the system and developing in a nasty oil leak and cost over $600.00 to fix. The hoses pop off for no apparent reason but, these do not detract from this beautiful car, in my opinion.

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  One heck of a roadster! - 2000 BMW Z3
  By Z3POWER - July 5 - 7:50 pm

  This was my first new car, my first real sports car and I love it. It get good gas mileage mid-20s and really good performance 60s in 5 seconds and 1/4 in 14-seconds. Oh yeah, my other car is a BMW 330i and a TOyota Tacoma 4dr 4wd truck.