BMW Z3. What’s it like to drive and own one?
 

I’m intrigued with the Z3. I’ve always liked its looks but I heard it has a soft, full of body roll ride. If you’ve driven one, please let me know if that’s truly the case.

How expensive is one to own? Is it a car you can DIY or is it all cramped and finicky so better left for BMW mechanics? Please let me know your experience with owning a Z3.

Btw, these cars are super cheap right now. Miatas cost more, if you can believe that.

Jay Emm on the Z3

https://youtu.be/oICoc3oOvS8

Everyday Driver, they enjoyed it.

https://youtu.be/QuP_D3XyyIE

https://youtu.be/ifK7m-snRSY

Are you talking first or second generation style? I'm probably in the minority but I like the second gen better. Also, the M version is quite a leap up in performance in either. I think that they are no more or less reliable than a 3-series of the same vintage. Definitely DIY friendly, if you are so inclined. Otherwise, find the best indy BMW shop around and establish a relationship. Plus use them for a PPI, of course. :)

Thanks guys

The Z3 is basically a shorter 3-series convertible. By modern standards the chassis isn't very stiff, and there were some rear subframe issues, but it was comparable to the 986 Boxster. I didn't have any issues, but I owned the coupe. The engines in the Z3s are identical to the 3 series, so the usual BMW aging problems (cooling system, always). Almost no one likes the 1.9L 4-cylinder, which is why they're so cheap.

As said above, the M series are fast, broad power band, a lot of fun. They use all the bits of a 3 platform, not complicated at all. They are a drivers car, more 'raw' than a Z4 in terms of feel. I've worked on and driven a lot of them, owned a handful. I like them a lot.

Same sentiments as ashpallt here .

Apologies, I conflated the Z3 and Z4 cars, which I referred to as, “second generation.”

I bet a turbo would do wonders to the 4 banger z3

a low boost unit like volvo used kick in low and boost 2 to 5 k rpm mid range

much better drive-ability then a peek rpm unit and less blow ups too

The 4 cyl engines are of an old design, not much good for anything other than an anchor. The 6's are the way to go.

Think of an E30 318is325is convertible. That is how it would be with the 4 or 6 banger. Z3 rear suspension is based off an E30. An old BMW friend had a 96 4 banger that he raced SCCA Solo 2. Had lots of fun stock, but went with a Downing Atlanta SC for more oomph! If I were to choose one, I would get the S54, then the S52 If not an M, then the 2.5 6 cylinder.

well 4's in z3 are cheap and common

and

IN F-1 STOCK BLOCK 1.5 4 MADE 1500HP SAME BLOCK
yes very different guts and no they were Q motors not race

250hp no sweat cheap jap turbo stock guts E-85 fuel SmileWavy

Having driven Z3 and Z4 I prefer a Boxster of the same MY

Price point I don't even know if they are similar

I've owned 3 of the 4 (Z3, Z4, Z4M, and 987 Boxster S), and there was some overlap

http://forums.pelicanparts.com/uploa...1666801791.jpg

Short version: the Boxster was better day-to-day, the Z4MC was better as a weekender, being more focused but harsher. Brakes were better on the Porsche. If I were choosing now, at 60, I'd get the 987S; in fact, I plan to when I quit riding motorcycles.

I once drove it for a weekend, back when I was DDing a 924, to be honest, wasn't impressed by the steering/handling feel of the Z3
Steering just felt disconnected and handling was really not all that much better then the 924 , defo not as good as a 944.