Highlights
- Just 3 owners from new
- Only 40k miles
- Full service history
- Lovely condition
The Appeal
BMW’s first modern entry into the mass market roadster business, the Z3 combined familiar mechanical components and a retro-inspired body design to great success. Now widely appreciated as a modern classic, low mileage six cylinder examples are becoming increasingly sought after, particularly when equipped with the 5 speed ZF manual gearbox, and values have been increasing accordingly.
This example was in the possession of the previous owner from 1999, was always garaged, and has a full service history. Acquired and recommissioned after a four year lay-up, the current owner was taken with its excellent condition but hasn’t used it as much as she expected and so this is your opportunity to capitalise on her great find. With very low mileage for its age, it’s a real survivor car that is ready to be further enjoyed or preserved and pampered. The choice is yours, so get bidding!
The History and Paperwork
- Previous owner in possession since 1999
- Off the road 2017-2021
- Acquired and recommissioned by current owner
- Full service history
- Always garaged by current and previous owner
- Invoices for recommissioning and recent new clutch slave cylinder
- MOT expires 8 June 2022
- V5 present in owner’s name
- Original owner’s manuals in leather wallet
- For sale due to less than expected use
The Interior
- All original
- Everything functions
- Unmarked red leather seats
Despite its low mileage, it’s a real surprise and pleasure to see that not even the driver’s seat bolster seems to have suffered the usual level of wear. In fact, the seller describes the interior condition as ‘fantastic’ and reports that there are no marks, scuffs or damage anywhere in the cabin. The red floor mats are thought to be original and they don’t seem to be worn at all and are a great reminder of some of the less sobre colour schemes that were offered on the Z3.
Reflecting the level of care with which this car has obviously been treated, absolutely everything reportedly works in the cabin. The original wind deflector remains in place and the boot is also very clean and tidy with all of the original tools present and correct.
The Exterior
- Paintwork reported to be excellent, save for scuff to nearside front wing
- No dents
- Very good wheels and tyres with good tread
- Wide body version
This really must have been a high days and holidays car as there’s barely any stone chips to show for its age and admittedly limited mileage. Sadly there has been a minor altercation with something immovable as there is a small scuff on the passenger side front wheel arch, and a crack to the light cover just adjacent but it shouldn’t be a big job to remedy. One door mirror also has a slight scuff but neither detract from the overall impression of a fine looking car.
Years of garage storage have obviously been kind to the hood, too, which remains in fine fettle and the rear window is unmisted and free from damage. The distinctive five spoke alloy wheels are also in good condition and wear tyres with a good level of tread remaining. The seller hasn’t been underneath the car but their trusted MOT tester reported no issues and it has no advisories on the current ticket.
The Mechanics
- Runs very sweetly
- Limited slip differential
- Classic BMW straight six sound
The engine bay is very original and the car reportedly starts first time every time and runs very sweetly. With the roof down, it’s easy to appreciate the sound of BMW’s naturally aspirated straight six which the seller reports still pulls hard and, with a fresh clutch master cylinder, it changes gear very smoothly.
The brakes are strong and pull the car up in a straight line. In short, it’s ready to be enjoyed, though with the condition of this car, it would be easy to imagine it being preserved for posterity.
The brakes are strong and pull the car up in a straight line. In short, it’s ready to be enjoyed, though with the condition of this car, it would be easy to imagine it being preserved for posterity.
Summary
A well preserved example of the grunty modern classic roadster.
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.
As is normal for most auctions, this vehicle is sold as seen, and therefore the Sale of Goods Act 1979 does not apply. 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.
