The Z3 introduced two firsts for BMW. It was the first of the company’s cars to be styled by radical designer Chris Bangle and was the first BMW to be built in the USA, at the new Spartanburg factory in North Carolina.
It was also a massively appealing entry to the sports car market – less hardcore but more practical than a Mazda MX-5 or MGF, and with beautiful BMW build quality and exceptional powertrains.
Today, it’s a great choice of modern classic open-top tourer and offers great value, while the fact it’s based on the ‘E36’ 3-Series platform also means it’s a rewarding car to drive.
This is something cool and different that you can still use every day. Plus, this one has the desirable AC Schnitzer bodykit named after BMW’s works racing team, and is finished in Boston Green – one of the all-time best BMW colours. IMG_7855.JPG6.16 MB
THE HISTORY AND PAPERWORK
Service history to 51,949 miles in 2021
Most services at main dealers
Original handbooks and service wallet
Two sets of keys
UK V5C
Astonishingly, the Z3 has spent much of its life being maintained within the main dealer network with its last service carried out less than 1,000 miles ago by Evans Halshaw in Doncaster, South Yorkshire.
It was serviced by main dealers up to 27,000 miles previously then by well-regarded independent BMW specialists all the way through, with 11 stamps in the book.
It has previously had a private plate so some of the past invoices relate to its cherished registration.IMG_7927.JPG4.41 MB
THE INTERIOR
Pale grey part-leather
Flawless dashboard
Dark grey carpets and trim
Original tool kit
Aftermarket stereo
The Z3 is in fine order inside with minimal signs of wear – just a small amount of rubbing to the gear lever and a small indent in the driver’s side seat bolster, though the leather facing is in good condition.
It has an optional wind deflector and tonneau cover and retains its original toolkit. A full car cover is also supplied. IMG_7887.JPG4.55 MB
THE EXTERIOR
Stunning Boston Green
Desirable Schnitzer kit with wide arches and five-spoke alloys
Undamaged roof and tonneau cover
Headlamps untarnished
Finished in rich Boston Green, the Z3 looks absolutely amazing and is free of any notable damage, other than a few small marks around the body. The vendor is going to get a scratch on the bonnet rectified before collection, as this was caused recently.
The Schnitzer body kit gives the car a wider appearance, with front and rear splitters and distinctive five-spoke alloys. These are in good overall order but have a few small marks from kerbing.
The roof operation is simplicity itself – undo two clips and it lowers smartly into the rear deck. The roof is free of damage and the rear window is crystal clear, as are the headlamps, which often grow cloudy with age.IMG_7862.JPG4.77 MB
THE MECHANICS
1.9-litre engine
Starts and runs well
Recently serviced
The Z3 has been thoroughly serviced and looked after throughout its life so it’s no surprise to find it starts on the button and runs and idles smoothly. All gears including reverse engage as they should and the clutch has a positive bite point.
The vendor reports that it drives absolutely as it should and with no cause for concern, with strong brakes, good steering and no knocks or bangs from the suspension. IMG_7968.JPG3.78 MB
SUMMARY
Good Z3s are getting fewer and further between, which makes an example as good as this one well worth seeking out.
It is really well-presented, is by far the best colour for a Z3 and appears to be in very good mechanical order, while being the 1.9 it should also prove relatively inexpensive to insure for younger enthusiasts.
It’s a great modern classic option for the summer ahead.
Notice to bidders
Although every care is taken to ensure this listing is as factual and transparent as possible, all details within the listing are subject to the information provided to us by the seller. Car & Classic does not take responsibility for any information missing from the listing. Please ensure you are satisfied with the vehicle description and all information provided before placing a bid.
All bids are legally binding once placed. Any winning bidder who withdraws from a sale, is subject to our bidders fee charge. Please see our FAQs and T&C's for further information. Viewings of vehicles are encouraged, but entirely at the seller's discretion.
