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 2.2-litre model was fitted with the M54B22 inline-six engine, rated at 168bhp and 155 lb-ft of torque.

First registered on 09 March 2001, this post-facelift 2.2-litre Z3 roadster is finished in the timeless combination of Titan Silver over Black M-Sport interior, and boasts a strong factory specification, with numerous desirable options:

Being a desirable six-cylinder model, this Z3 is also fitted with the rare automatic transmission, which turns this drop-top roadster into an excellent GT car, perfect for covering long distances in complete comfort and remaining just as comfortable around town or in urban traffic.  

Included with the vehicle is the full complement of BMW books including a stamped service record, extensive service history, and two sets of keys.

The most recent MoT exam was carried out on 29 January 2022, and shows a pass with no advisory items. Documentation also shows the vehicle to have had 6 previous owners.

Inside, the BMW M-sport finish interior presents in fantastic shape, and has quite clearly been well-cared-for throughout its lifetime, judging by its condition.

The seats, for example, show only some minor wear to the bolsters and creases to the bases, whilst the BMW mats are in good condition, the dashboard remains free of any heavy scuffs or cracks, and even the high-traffic areas such as switches, the steering wheel and gear selector are in great condition, with only minor wear noted.

Other than the more modern Blaupunkt stereo, the interior remains in stock condition throughout, and the tool kit underneath the boot floor is complete - an excellent touch. 

All systems are believed to be working as they should, and there is no mention of any warning lights on the dashboard, nor any issues with the folding roof.

On the outside, the Titan Silver paintwork has fared remarkably well, and presents in great condition throughout. There is a couple of small minor marks on the rear bumper, although there is no wear on the hardtop mounting, there is a light scratch caused by someone removing or refitting the hardtop at some point.

Up above, the folding soft-top and the factory hard-top are both in great condition, with the window on the soft top showing no signs of any cracking or UV damage, and no reported waterproofing issues from either roof. 

As far as we can see, there are no signs of any dents or impact damage on the vehicle, and no major scuffs to the paintwork or wear beyond the usual light marks and stone chips expected from a 22-year-old vehicle. 

All four wheels are in good order with plenty of life left on the tyres, though there are a few incidences of kerb rash and some minor marks noted, along with some bubbling around the bolt holes.

Under the bonnet, the 2.2-litre M54B22 is exceptionally clean and has evidently been cosseted in recent years if not throughout its entire life, and there are no visual indications of any leaks, misting or other issues. 

The vendor reports that the engine, transmission and suspension systems are all in excellent health and the car sounds “great” out on the road, with no reported problems and a clean recent MoT exam attesting to the mechanical condition of this Z3 roadster.

Blending BMWs design, silky-smooth inline-six and impressive usable performance with year-round practicality thanks to its automatic transmission and factory hard-top, this 2001 Z3 2.2 LCI is presented in very good condition throughout, and would make a fabulous year-round daily-driver or weekend GT toy.