Bmw z3

[Chocaholic]

There’s a low mileage 1999 Z3 for sale nearby. Always liked it better than the Z4. It’s got 3 pedals and a 2.3L six with 44k mi. Described as excellent throughout. I know that the 3.0 is the more desirable engine but wondering about experiences. Would be for a weekend hobby car. Have been looking for a TR6 but none around here and nice ones are cresting $30k.

Welcome the good/bad/ugly.

[oldE]

Isn't the 2.3 liter a 4cyl?
I've noticed a couple of them listed in Halifax for the same asking price as Miatas.
Probably not as good condition.

Best
Les

[Chocaholic]

Originally Posted by oldE

Isn't the 2.3 liter a 4cyl?

Best
Les

[rfuerst911sc]

I think some of them suffer from a rear suspension issue . Something about the bolts going into a subframe that can rust out . Other than that I think they are solid . Not bad looking and the six I am sure likes to Rev. If it checks out I say why not .

[Rot 911]

The 2.3 is 170 hp and the 3.0 is 258 hp. A noticeable difference.

[Chocaholic]

Originally Posted by Rot 911

The 2.3 is 170 hp and the 3.0 is 258 hp. A noticeable difference.

Agree…and would be all over it if 3.0. But living in BF Alabama, it’s very rare that anything of interest becomes available around here!

[masraum]

I've got a buddy that bought a low miles super clean Z3 with a 1.9L. I think his is one of the narrow bodies. I prefer those aesthetics unless you're getting the M Roadster or M coupe.

He seems to really like his.

My wife would love one. She's always liked the Z3.

[Alan A]

Are you a hairdresser?

[Chocaholic]

Does grooming my St. Bernard count?

Hey, I’m too effing old to worry about that!

[Alan A]

Originally Posted by Chocaholic

Does grooming my St. Bernard count?

Hey, I’m too effing old to worry about that!

Then if getting hit on by other guys doesn’t both you either you should go for it. As you said - it’s not a Z4. Clown shoes are fetching real $ now. Maybe these will float up too.

[astrochex]

Looks like you have to drive it. Even with the smaller engine, it could provide the experience you are looking for.

[Chocaholic]

Originally Posted by Alan A

Then if getting hit on by other guys doesn’t both you either you should go for it. As you said - it’s not a Z4. Clown shoes are fetching real $ now. Maybe these will float up too.

Hey…at 64, getting hit on by any gender, regardless of species, would be a boost to my ego!

[wildthing]

Wow... these were like $5K cars 8 years ago...

[Heel n Toe]

As always, get a PPI done by a trusted indie BMW mechanic. Get recommendations from a local chapter of the BMWCCA if you don't know someone to ask.

Also, get a Carfax report if you can.

That straight six is a wonderful engine.

The cooling system is something you want to have checked out because if ignored, it can bite you. Many recommend replacing all the hoses when you begin ownership.

Especially all the small hoses on the right side of this diagram:

https://forums.pelicanparts.com/off-topic-discussions/1122521-best-place-measure-engine-water-temperature.html#post11739177

They sit near the engine and are very likely cooked and brittle if they've never been replaced.

[cockerpunk]

i dont know why you wouldnt choose a Miata over it.

z3 has semi-trailing arm rear suspension from the e30, will cost more, will cost more to maintain, is ridiculously heavy etc, and you dont get any increase in practicality over a Miata.

NB/NC/ND is your droid here. for 11.5 you are looking at a very nice NB, or a reasonable NC2/3. both substantially better cars.

[911 Rod]

I've had a few BMWs and I've thought many times about buying one of these. Then I come to the realization that I should just get a Boxster instead.

[lin7310948]

i had a z3m coupe with most all dinan mods. there is a kit that can be purchased to strenthen the mounts for the rear differental. i dont know about the roadsters but the coupes have very limited seating space.

[ramonesfreak]

My brother has a 99 or 00 since new. Not sure what engine. He has had no issues with it except the top needed replacing I think. I’ve driven it and enjoy driving it. I have not pushed it so can’t really comment on performance at the limit. The interior is nice, like a BMW of that era. With top up it is quite cozy and reminds me of an MGB in a way..but drives much better. I think these cars have a great style to them. I don’t understand the hairdresser comments about them. I would be proud to own a nice one and see it as a future classic.

[tdw28210]

[Por_sha911]

I've always loved the Z3 looks but I've been told it doesn't handle very well.

BMW parts and repairs makes the "Porsche tax" look like chump change.
As a rule, BMW is far more proprietary. Parts may be an issue as well.