James Bond drove a Z3. So if you want a bit of affordable 007-cool, then this is arguably the best way to do it – and certainly a lot cheaper than an Aston Martin DB5.

Thanks in no small part to the success of the Mazda MX-5 and MGF, the roadster market underwent something of a resurgence in the 1990s, with manufacturers across Europe, Japan and the USA keen to muscle in on the renaissance of the traditional drop top.

The BMW Z3 was one of the most important. A traditional two-seater, it would be the first BMW to be produced in the USA at the company’s Spartanburg factory in South Carolina. It was designed in the USA, too, with a styling team led by Chris Bangle. Indeed, in many ways the Z3 is more American than it is German, save for the badge on the bonnet and, of course, its chassis and mechanical components, for under the skin it’s a 3-Series E36, but with a sports car body.
 
It had a choice of BMW engines ranging from a 1.8-litre four-cylinder to a 3.0-litre straight six, which was the flagship model owned by 007 and is also the model offered for sale here.

Production of the Z3 began in September 1995, with the car being revealed to the world via the medium of film. For the first time, the world’s most famous secret agent would be found not at the wheel of a British car, but driving a BMW Z3 in the launch shade of Atlantic Blue with tan leather. Hardly the thing for covert surveillance, but the tie-in with Goldeneye gave BMW a huge publicity boost and launched BMW’s new roadster in inimitable style. It also left an impression on a lot of youngsters, which means the Z3 is a popular modern classic these days, and one that’s steadily increasing in value.
 
This example is a case in point – it’s as good as a Z3 gets – a top spec wide-body 3.0i manual commissioned via BMW Indiviual, which means it was finished by hand and with a unique specification.
 
Among its Individual features are ‘Alligator’ leather seats and door trims, a BMW Business CD stereo, diamond weave floor mats, polished wood gear knob, handbrake gaiter, steering wheel and centre console. It also has climate control and a power-operated roof.
 
It’s in stunning order and is probably one of the best original 3.0-litre Z3s on the market today.
 

BEFORE YOU BUY 

This sale is subject to the Car & Classic Terms and Conditions. By bidding and/or making an offer, you also agree to the following: 

✓ The seller is registered as a private seller which means consumer rights stemming from EU consumer protection law do not come into effect. However, you are still covered by Car & Classic’s own Terms and Conditions.. 

✓ We request that a non-refundable fee  be paid if you are the lucky winning bidder at auction or if your offer is accepted Please refer to our helpful FAQs and T&Cs for specific rates. 

✓ This vehicle is “Sold As Seen”, on an “As Is Where Is’ basis and without warranty. Photos and descriptions are solely for guidance purposes and it's customary to carry out a full inspection of the vehicle prior to purchase for your own peace of mind. 

✓ VAT is included in the buyer's deposit. VAT may or may not be included in the final bid or offer price, as specified in the listing. 

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✓ Buyers are responsible for vehicle collection 

or delivery. Importing vehicles may result in additional customs duties and import taxes so it’s worth checking beforehand.. If requested, we may refer you to a third-party shipping company who can help. For more details and to speak to the team, email auctions@carandclassic.com