Thoughts on Z3 ///M roadsters

[griffnut]

Hi,

I purchased a 1999 Z3M Roadster way back in 2002, loved the looks of the car and the reviews were pretty good at that time. But after 6 months of ownership, it had to go. The ride was on the choppy side and the driving position was a little to high for my liking (felt as though you were sitting on the car, rather than in it like a modern Z4). I did enjoy the Electric Roof though.

Due to it's limited build numbers, it's potential lay in the future, providing the miles were kept low as prices reflect now. But are cars for investment purposes (kept in barn/garage) or to be used and enjoyed.

It's all down to Personal Taste, try before you buy.

 

[Zed Five]

I've driven a few z3M roadsters, as well as owning a couple of z3s. There is a simplistic charm, like an MG in some respects but better built. However, as said earlier, old cars, rust, old fashioned hoods etc etc. A good alternative to a Healey, TR etc. S54 the one to have, it has dsc too. I almost bought one in Kyalami orange.

Get used to driving a Z3M on opposite lock. Roundabouts require wipers on the front quarterlight windows...

 

[Mad Professor]

Had an S54 Z3MR Phoenix yellow which looked great but always underwhelmed in terms of handling
In terms of overall bang for buck the Z4M is in a different league IMHO

 

[Mad Professor]

they're going up in value! more so because of rarity than performance obviously - like most classics, which is what it's becoming alongside the coupe version. i do think the z3 has aged well and in my opinion is pretty good looking.
It won't perform or feel like a z4m - not sure why people are comparing the 2

if i was splashing that cash and didn't intend on using daily i'd get a TVR and hire a mechanic

Agree -would buy a precat Griff for that kind of money

 

[RickRob]

The Z3 Roadster never floated my boat. Once had a 1.9 as a loan car and was seriously unimpressed.

I did however to have the hots for a Z3M Coupe, but never got my act together.

What is all the more strange is that I have never been tempted by the Z4 Coupe.

 

[griffnut]

Hi,

I also agree with the last few posts, my money would go towards buying a decent pre-cat Griff. The aural sound track is unbeatable as is the fun factor.

The Griffs are also going up in value and an engine rebuild would't break the bank!, unlike an "M" unit.

Just wish that they did an Auto for an old bloke with a dodgy left knee.

 

[Taz]

I'm not sure why you would go for one of those over a Z4 ///M. Bread van would be a different story of course.

where does the expression bread van come from?

 

[Zed Five]

I'm not sure why you would go for one of those over a Z4 ///M. Bread van would be a different story of course.

where does the expression bread van come from?

Z3m coupe looks like a hovis van.

 

[TitanTim]

A mate had a Griffith I think it was until it was written off, sitting in it I always felt ever so slightly embarrassed with the lack of chest hair :lol:

Re the 1.9 Z3, it was the best handling Z3 in the range including the M as it sported the lightest engine :wink:

Tim.

 

[Z4M-2006]

I had a 1.9 Z3... It was great but a little wheezy...

The 2.8 widebody I bought after was a better all round thing for me... Both ace cars... 15 yrs ago now!!

 

[TitanTim]

I had a 1.9 Z3... It was great but a little wheezy...

The 2.8 widebody I bought after was a better all round thing for me... Both ace cars... 15 yrs ago now!!

I was actually after the 2.2 when looking back in 2008 but gave up trying to find one with the mileage I was after so snapped up my little 1.9 8V with a stonking 118bhp and 20K on the clock. The M43 engine although no ball of fire I've always found to be smooth and refined for a 4cyl and happy to rev, it put the N20 rattly thing in my old E89 to shame :|

Its like an Austin Frogeye Sprite, not fast or especially great handling but an enduring ownership experience all the same. Still can't bare to part with the Z3 which says it all.

Tim.

 

[HinesBeans]

I'm in love with those seats.

 

[Barrow]

Love the front of the bonnet but not the back. It has nobs on the dash and the steering wheel is spin dearly, and it's not the best drive to a z4m.