HIGHLIGHTS
- Fantastic bodywork
- Desirable Artic Silver paintwork
- Just two former owner’s
THE APPEAL
Based on BMW’s E36 platform, the first generation Z3 2-seater sports car sold well in the U.K., and now 25, this particular Z3 has officially joined the modern classic club.
The Z3’s popularity is undoubtedly down to It’s seductive looks, but also it’s relatively simple mechanicals, excellent roadholding, sharp steering and punchy performance.
This affordable roadster looks great in Arktissilber (Artic silver) and shines beautifully in the autumn sunshine. It sports the reliable 140 bhp 1.9-litre power-plant and 5-speed gearbox and with a good service history, appears to have been well cared for.
THE HISTORY AND PAPERWORK
This Z3 was owned by it’s first custodian right up to 2017, after which, it joined a collection of Z3’s owned by a manager at Peter Nash Specialist Cars, Warsash, Southampton, and largely remained in storage until the present owner acquired it in September 2022.
- First registered on the 1st August 2001
- Registration number included
- Recommissioned on the 22nd April 2022 after storage
- Up to date V5 present
- Owner’s handbook
- Sound system manual and alarm system instructions
- Service booklet with 5 BMW dealer stamps
- Current MOT runs until 25th April 2023
- Previous MOT’s back to 2001
- Taxed until 1st March 2023
- 2 sets of keys
THE INTERIOR
- Tasteful black cabin in very good order
- Minor age-related wear to leather steering wheel
- Fully functioning instrumentation and switches (the owner informs us)
- Electrically operated windows, mirrors, seats and hood
- Very agreeable leather upholstery with just the odd scuff and some expected wear
- Good door trims, fixtures and rubber seals
- Presentable carpeting
- Original ‘Business RDS’ radio/cassette player
- Cigarette lighter present (not in photos)
- Boot contains the original and complete tool kit, warning triangle and access to the spare wheel
THE EXTERIOR
- Desirable Artic Silver metallic paintwork in fantastic condition
- Ding-free bodywork with just a handful of minor paint scuffs (see photos)
- Virtually no obvious frontal stone chips
- Sound wheel arches, door bottoms and sills
- Excellent windows, lights, mirrors, trim and badges
- Smooth operating mohair hood with slight ‘misting’ to rear window
- From what we can see, the underside is clean with some surface corrosion
- No known accident damage
- Original BMW 5-spoke alloys with minimal signs of kerb damage
- Older tyres with good tread level
THE MECHANICS
- 1,895 cc 4-cylinder engine with a top speed of around 128 mph
- The owner assures us that this engine starts and runs really well with no known issues
- Quiet timing chain
- Smooth 5-speed transmission
- Clean engine compartment
- Progressive PAS steering
- ABS brakes
- Recommissioned in April 2022 with 4 x shock absorbers, 4 x discs & pads, 2 x coil springs, fuel pump & filter, 2 x replacement tyres
SUMMARY
With outstanding bodywork and paint, this BMW Z3 believes it’s true age and definitely appears to have led a pampered life thus far.
Easy and cheap to run, this entertaining and classy Bavarian roadster is likely to be a hoot on the road and certainly sounded sweet and ran well to the photoshoot location.
Notice to bidders
This item is sold on an ‘As is Where is’ basis. The condition of this item is the opinion of the seller and may differ from your own opinion. Photos and listing descriptions are for guidance purposes only*.** Car & Classic do not warrant listing accuracy. Full inspection is recommended. Viewings are at the seller’s discretion. Buyer is responsible for delivery and collection of any item purchased.
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