Built upon the much-loved E36 platform and representing BMWs first foray into mass-produced Z-Series cars, the Z3 was introduced in 1995, and remained in production until 2002, with a facelift (Lci) during mid-1999. Underneath, a mixture of four and six-cylinder engines were offered for non-M models, whilst the Z3M received ethers the S50 or S54 engines depending on their age.

Designed by Joji Nagashima and available in both coupé (E36/8) and roadster (E36/7) the LCI facelift in April 1999 saw little in the way of exterior changes, other than minor revisions to the headlights and taillights, badging and an integrated third brake light. Underneath, the electronic stability control was updated to a DSC system, engine changes were carried out (with the 2.0 moving to the 2.2i and the 2.8 moving to the 3.0i) and other small changes were implemented such as dual-stage side airbags and three-layer insulation added to the convertible roof. 

Specifically, the 1999-2000 2.8-litre Z3 is powered by an M52TUB28 inline-six, which produces 190bhp and 207 lb-ft of torque, coupled to either a 5-speed ZF S5-31 manual gearbox or a 4-speed GM-sourced 4L30-E automatic transmission. 

First registered in 1999, this pre-LCI Z3 Roadster is finished in the rare and desirable shade of Palmetto Green Pearlescent, over a Sand Beige/black leather interior - talk about #makespecsgreatagain content! 

This example is also fitted with the aforementioned 4-speed GM 4L30-E auto, making long-distance GT drives and urban town journeys a breeze, regardless of traffic or slow speed limits encountered.

From the factory, a number of additional optional extras were specified, including the following:

Included with the vehicle is the BMW hand book pack, though it is noted that the stamped service record was mis-placed by the previous owner, though the mileage is still verifiable thanks to the online MoT history. 

Along with the book pack, there are numerous older invoices and documents, and the V5 registered keeper document. 

The most recent MoT certificate is dated 12 November 2021, showing a pass.

On the inside, the Sand Beige/Black leather interior has fared well over the years, and shows only some typical light commensurate wear, in keeping with the car’s age and mileage, but also giving evidence of its cherished existence. 

The seats, for example, exhibit no signs of any damage or heavy wear that we could see, instead wearing some light creasing and ‘bunching’ as testament to their authenticity and high-quality nature of BMW’s interior design.

The carpets show some light wear - most notably around the heel area on the driver’s over mats - but remain in useable condition, whilst high-traffic areas such as the steering wheel, shifter and handbrake gator exhibit light commensurate wear. 

Other than the upgraded stereo unit, the cabin remains original throughout, with the tool kit below the boot floor being largely complete, save for one or two items.

The vendor reports that all systems are working as they should, including the folding soft-top which is devoid of any damage or major markings. 

On the outside, the striking Palmetto Green paintwork is in fantastic condition throughout, showing only a few minor marks (such as stone chips) and light blemishes which are commensurate for a vehicle of this age and mileage, along with a slightly more noticeable mark at the leading edge of the lower bumper ‘splitter’ up front. 

Looking along the sides of the car and at the photographs we’ve seen, there are no signs of any impact damage, nor any major scuffs or wear to the paintwork, which is testament to the level of care and attention this Z3 has received over the years. 

Up above, the folding soft-top is in excellent condition, with no cracking noted to the rear window and no waterproofing issues noted by the vendor. 

All four of the MV M-Sport alloys are in good condition with a couple of patches of kerb rash noted, whilst all tyres have plenty of life left in them according to the vendor.

Under the bonnet, the 2.8-litre inline-six M54TUB28 engine is in rude health, and presents very well indeed, having clearly received many hours of attention and detailing during its lifetime. From what we can see, there are no tell-tale signs of any leaks, fluid misting or other issues, and the vendor reports the engine, drivetrain and suspension components are all in excellent condition with no known issues.

The vendor also wishes to make note of the service indicator still displaying three green lights, meaning the vehicle will not require servicing for ‘thousands of miles yet’ - excellent news for those that simply want to jump in and enjoy this six-cylinder roadster.

A true modern classic icon of design, the Z3 still manages to turn heads even 20+ years after it was first released, and this 1999 example will turn more heads than most, thanks to its attractive Palmetto Green paintwork and interesting interior specification. 

Presented in very good condition throughout, this is an opportunity to obtain a useable and enjoyable daily-driver Z car that is ready to simply hop in and enjoy.