Description
Delivered new in Germany
Effectively one owner (a BMW employee) from new
Desirable S54-engine example
One of only 15 ever produced in desirable Stahlgrau
The only one in this colour scheme fitted with the panorama sunroof
Circa 33, 000 kilometres recorded
Full service history
A brilliant exercise in 'retro' styling that recalled its fabulous '328' sports car of pre-war days, BMW's Z3 was introduced in 1996. The original four-cylinder 1. 9-litre Z3 was more of a stylish boulevard cruiser than out-and-out sports car and would prove equally appealing to both men and women drivers. The arrival of the 2. 8-litre six-cylinder engine in 1997 transformed the Z3, endowing it with a level of performance that at last matched the promise of its looks. Six-cylinder cars enjoyed a lengthier equipment list than the 'fours', which included an electric hood (roadster), leather upholstery, and 16 alloy wheels.
Commencing in the early 1980s with the limited edition 'homologation special' M3, BMW Motorsport GmbH went on to create its own distinctive 'M-Power' brand of performance-enhanced luxury models. The first M-Power Z3, powered by the 3. 2-litre engine from the 3-Series Evolution model, appeared in January 1998. Built until February 2001 when the model was revised, the first-series Z3M Coup and Roadster were powered by the 3, 201cc S50 engine producing 321bhp; figures that translated into a tyre-smoking 100 km/ h time of 5. 2 seconds and a top speed of 250km/ h. The fastest-accelerating BMW ever at the time of its introduction, the Z3M Coup boasted a generous specification that included electric windows, ABS, PAS, air conditioning, heated seats, driver/ passenger air bags, six-speaker stereo system, alarm/ immobiliser, heated exterior mirrors, 17 alloy wheels, and a limited-slip differential as standard.
Starting in February 2001, the Z3M received the S54 engine from the E46 M3, which in most countries - North America excepted - came with 321bhp on tap (North American customers had to do with 315bhp). In total, 1, 112 Z3M coups were sold worldwide with the S54 engine, of which only 269 were the more powerful European-specification left-hand drive models like that offered here. Naturally, these later and more powerful cars are considered more collectible than the earlier ones.
The Z3M we offer is said to be the last one built and has had only one driver from new. Exquisitely finished in Stahlgrau (Steel Grey) with Kiwi interior, the car was delivered new on 20th February 2003, and according to the first owner (a BMW employee and the only driver of this car), BMW GmbH has confirmed it is the last Z3M coup built. Only 15 S54 cars were finished in the rare and desirable Stahlgrau, this example being the only one with a Kiwi interior and sunroof, making it unique. It comes generously equipped, featuring the desirable panorama sunroof and 25% locking limited-slip differential. The sole driver of the car has re-registered the BMW a couple of times (first registered to BMW GmbH) but it has always remained in the same hands in Germany. We are advised that the car is accident-free, outstandingly original and untouched, and in mint condition. Only 33, 000 kilometres have been covered from new, and the last service was carried out at around 32, 000 kilometres in July 2020. The car comes with its original books, including the stamped service book, original set of keys and German registration documents.
A veritable motoring 'unicorn', this exceptional example is very likely the best Z3M you will find: German delivered, BMW maintained, linked with the factory, exquisite colour combination, little used and in mint condition - it doesn't get better than this!
Combining outrageous looks and performance with impressive practicality, the Z3M Coup was not replaced within BMW's line-up after its deletion in 2002, and is surely destined for 'highly collectible' status in the future.
NOTICE COLLECTIONS, TRANSPORT AND STORAGE Purchases will only be released when cleared funds are received.
MOTOR CARS & MOTORCYCLES
All vehicles must be collected from the Bonhams|Cars Marquee by 12noon on Monday 9 October 2023. Customers must notify BY EMAIL ONLY to Suzanne Kress , using the button below, no later than 8pm on the day of the Sale.
Please note that if Suzanne Kress hasn't received your notification on Sunday evening, all vehicles will be automatically removed to a temporary storage facility by the logistics company EXCLUTRANS BV on Monday 9 October at your expense and risk.
ADMINISTRATION AND UPLIFT FROM THE VENUE
€185 + VAT per motor car/ motorcycle
STORAGE CHARGES
First 14 days
€25 + VAT per motor car/ motorcycle per day
Payment of the uplift & storage charges and transport must be arranged with EXCLUTRANS BV. Collection is strictly by appointment only and at least 24-hours notice must be given.
POINT OF CONTACT TO ORGANISE STORAGE FEES' PAYMENT & COLLECTION
THEO VAN DEN EECKHOUT – EXCLUTRANS BV
+32 9 232 01 71
using the button below
POINT OF CONTACT FOR CUSTOMS CLEARANCE
JORIS EYSERMANS - FIBONACCI
+32 460 96 18 40
using the button below
POINT OF CONTACT REGARDING THE ORIGINAL REGISTRATION DOCUMENTS OF YOUR PURCHASE(S)
SUZANNE KRESS – BONHAMS|CARS
+33 1 42 61 10 11
Susing the button below
POINT OF CONTACT REGARDING PAYMENTS
CHERYL UGGLES - BONHAMS|CARS – CREDIT CONTROLLER
+44 the details below
using the button below
IMPORTANT CARS UNDER CUSTOMS BOND
Lots 103, 104, 107, 108, 109, 110, 111, 112, 113, 114, 115, 119, 124, 134, 145, 150, 151, 155, 169, 185, 186
• Please note that for lots which are subject to the normal local duty/ import tax on Hammer Price : as Bonhams|Cars is the guarantor of the customs duties and taxes clearance, these motor cars cannot be released to the buyer or his transporter immediately after the sale.
• For these cars, collection by the buyer or a third party is only possible if import taxes are paid.
• These motor cars cannot be released to the buyer or his transporter immediately after the sale.
• Please keep in mind that it takes a couple of days to clear customs.
• Please send us from now your clearance instructions.
For all enquiries relating to Customs, be they administrative or legal, please contact:
FIBONACCI
Joris Eysermans
+32 460 96 18 40
using the button below
