The Z3 was an important car for BMW. The first mass-produced Z Series model, development began in the early 1990s as the cultural zeitgeist shifted to embrace retro-styled roadsters and, with the rugged and dependable underpinnings of the E36-generation 3 Series, there was much to enjoy with this pretty little drop-top.

The model we have here is particularly special, for a number of reasons. Firstly, there’s the fact that it's a Sport edition. This was an option pack available on late-model Z3s, which included the attractive BBS Style 78 alloy wheels, uprated suspension with 15mm-lower springs, restyled front bumper and clear indicators, while the interior was treated to Nappa leather Sport seats, brushed aluminium centre console and M steering wheel.

The other thing that makes it special is how closely and lovingly it’s been cherished. Its owners have had it since August 2002: BMW helpfully put a build date in the engine bay of all their cars, so we can see that this Z3 was built in October 2001, and the V5 shows it registered with its first owner in January 2002. Therefore, aside from the initial few months or so with that first keeper, it’s been in the same hands throughout its existence – and this couple have truly loved this car. It’s always lived in the garage, with the hard-top stored in a bag on a stand, and it’s largely only been driven on sunny days for pleasurable top-down jaunts. An incredibly original and solid example with a full service history, it’s extremely rare to find a Z3 2.2i as tidy as this one.

 

As you’d no doubt expect of a car with such low mileage, the interior of this Z3 is extremely fresh and in superb condition throughout. The seats are heated Sport items trimmed in Nappa leather, and are free from undue wear, marks or damage. The level of factory-fit equipment is strong, with an M Sport steering wheel, Roadster-branded kick plates, electric windows and air-conditioning. The owner has also fitted a quality Alpine stereo system; this is the only deviation from standard specs, with everything else throughout the car being the original factory specification.

The carpets are in great condition, the dash-top is free from cracks or sun damage, and the gauges are all working correctly with no warning lights illuminated. Everything is functioning as it should, with each button and switch doing its job correctly.
Inside the boot it’s all extremely tidy and completely dry, with the original toolkit under the floor next to the battery.

Finished in gleaming Titan Silver, the Z3’s bodywork is in very pleasing condition throughout; this is clearly a car that’s never been mistreated, all of the panels sit straight and true and there’s no evidence of repainting. The only visible blemish is a minor ding to one of the rear arches, which would no doubt be a simple fix for a paintless dent removal professional.

The light lenses and window glass are all in good condition, all of the correct badges and trim are in place, and the Z3 wears the correct 17” BBS Style 78 alloy wheels in staggered widths – these are in tidy overall condition with just a few minor kerbing scuffs.
The soft-top is in very good condition indeed, testament to the fact that it hasn’t been outdoors much, as the car is generally driven top-down and then stored in the garage. It’s a power hood that raises and lowers correctly, latching and unlatching easily, and has no undue wear, holes, or marks, and a nice clear window pane.

The car also comes with its original hard-top, which is in outstanding condition. This has been kept in a quality zipped storage bag on the correct wheeled stand, and the owner estimates that it hasn’t actually been used in around fifteen years or so – as such, it’s practically unmarked.

Z3 spotters will know that if the model you’re looking at has twin tailpipes, it’s a six-cylinder car. Indeed, this 2.2i boasts the venerable M54B22 straight-six, a robust and enjoyable 2171cc unit that serves up a handy 168bhp and 155lb.ft. As you can see from the service book, this car has been correctly and regularly maintained throughout its life, and that’s in evidence today: it fires instantly on the first turn of the key and settles into an even idle, and the seller is keen to highlight how dependable and enjoyable a car it is to drive. A reliable engine, a smooth gearbox, strong brakes and a comfortable ride – all just as it should be.

This is a rare find, it really is. The 2.2i model was only available from 2000-2002, which makes it obscure enough in itself, and the Sport pack is especially desirable. But what really sets this car apart is the story behind it: its owners bought it when it was less than a year old and it’s been with them ever since, loved and cherished, enjoyed for sunny-day jaunts and holidays, and always correctly maintained. It’s in lovely condition, it’s impressively original, and it’s very much ready to enjoy. After so many years with such doting curators, it’s now time for a new owner to write the next chapter of this Z3’s story.

This item is sold on an ‘As is Where is’ basis. The condition of this item is the opinion of the seller and may differ from your own opinion. Photos and listing descriptions are for guidance purposes only. Car & Classic do not warrant listing accuracy. Full inspection is recommended. Viewings are at the seller’s discretion. Buyer is responsible for delivery and collection of any item purchased.

UK-registered cars and motorbikes on Car & Classic are run through an online HPI check. On the HPI report, this vehicle shows no insurance database markers for damage or theft. It is currently not covered by a finance agreement.