Highlights

Well-regarded Cobra body conversion by Coachwork Classics
Based on a 192bhp 2.8L Z3 with 5spd manual box
Attractive ‘burnt orange’ metallic with racing stripes and two-tone interior
Supplied with both a hardtop and an electric soft top
Two new rear tyres fitted in April 2025
Fitted with stainless steel exhaust and Cobra cam cover

The Appeal

It seems fitting that the Z3, a car firmly influenced by retro roadsters, is regularly used as the basis for classic conversions. It’s an easy switch, too, because the Z3’s panels are bolted on. This car was converted around 10 years ago by UK specialist Coachwork Classics using their evocative tribute to AC’s Shelby Cobra.

It is an attractive tribute, painted in burnt orange finish - the DVLA records it as red - and accented with twin racing stripes. There are clever little nods to the original in the chrome wing trims and Cobra wheel spinners. It is in good overall condition with a few points to note inside.

The joy of these cars is that they look classic but drive like a modern car, with all the reliability and durability that implies. Inside, this car has comfortable M seats in two-tone black and red and features a modern Bluetooth stereo. Other modern touches include electric windows and a roof, and of course, power steering. The car is supplied with a folding soft top and a bespoke hard top in grey. It is sold with UK DVLA registration, MOT is expired, so it will require renewal before the car hits the road.

The vendor says:

“This Cobra-style tribute offers the striking visual presence of a classic 1960s roadster combined with the reliability and drivability of the BMW Z3 platform. It represents an interesting and eye-catching reinterpretation of the iconic AC Cobra concept while benefiting from modern BMW engineering underneath. For enthusiasts seeking an unusual roadster with classic styling and dependable mechanicals, this Z3-based Cobra tribute provides a distinctive and enjoyable driving experience.”

History and Paperwork

First registered in the UK on 14th November 1997
Eight registered UK keepers
Has been located in Germany
Currently on UK registration with UK V5 as shown
Private UK registration plate shown in photos (N7OTB) is not included
142,496 miles recorded as shown in photos (not verified)
UK V5C present
No current MOT
Last UK MOT expired May 2021 ith 142,143 miles showing and no advisories
Car was silver, which was changed in May 2016 when we understood the car was converted
Converted by Coachworks Classics (UK) using their AC Cobra tribute body kit for the BMW Z3
2 set of keys with fobs as shown
Various old MOTs and invoices

The Condition

Converted around 10 years ago by Coachwork Classics
Red metallic paintwork as shown with pair of black centre racing stripes
Paintwork in fair condition with evidence of localised aging shown in photos
GRP body kit generally well kept with points to note in photos and below
Cracks in the GRP noted around the fuel filler,
Also cracks near the chrome hinges on the boot lid
Cracks on the passenger door where it was widened with GRP during the conversion
Grey GRP hardtop currently installed
Folding electric soft top also included
Chrome bumper overriders, chrome mirrors, and chrome door handles fitted
17in black spoked classic-style wheels with bolted and polished rims and spinners
New rear types fitted in April 2025
Chrome roll bars fitted
Two-tone Tanin Rot factory interior with BMW M leather seats
Interior is well kept with some age to note typical of age and mileage
Electric windows and electrically adjustable seats
Black carpets with red overmats fitted
Small boot as shown
Kenwood Bluetooth stereo fitted
Fitted with a wooden GT sport steering wheel
The vendor reports the car presents well overall, both inside and out
Age-related signs of use consistent with a vehicle over 28 years old we are told
No major damage reported by the vendor

The Mechanics

M52 2,793cc) BMW inline-six engine producing 192 bhp
5spd manual gearbox
142,496 miles recorded on the engine and gearbox (not verified)
Clean engine bay with COBRA engine cover fitted
Stainless steel exhaust system
Fitted with power steering
BMW ASC traction control
Front airbags
Vendor states engine and gearbox run without fault
We are told that the car starts readily and shifts cleanly

BEFORE YOU BUY

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✓ 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..

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✓ 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.

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Comments

george-••••

3 days ago

Hi ,is the car still in Germany ? Does it have any German paperwork like registration,tax payments etc . Does it have A/C ? Thanks in advance.

TOSIGN-••••

Seller

Hi, yes the car is here in Germany, and can pick up here in Germany. The Cobra has english doquments ORIGINAL V5,it comes to Germany befor the BREXIT start in England.So it need not to do the custom . We have a Copy from German doquments of a thame Cobra registered in Germany. And we have COC-Papers from German TÜV for this Cobra. thank you for intest.Tobias