BMW Z3 Roadster (1996 - 2002) 3.0 2d (2000/X) Owner Review

What does this car say about you?

Hmm... best I dont answer that. Mostly negative from road users but there's a really strong Z3 community with many a wave,especially from grinning 'm'owners. Tend to get boy racers tailgaiting. For an inexpensive car to buy,it does inspire jealousy.

What do your friends / family / neighbours think of the car?

My oldest brother has an M3 and Merc SLK, other brother recently sold a Boxster S and they were both patronising their little bro getting an 'old' 'girly' car that they thought would be riddled with problems. After they have both driven it extensively (I was terrified in the passanger seat) they both love it,surprised how good it is.

Would you buy this car again and why?

Yes,yes, and yes. Its love. This is a lot of car for six grand. Fun, fast,sexy and reliable.

What are you likely to buy next?

The only way I'm getting rid of this car is if i write it off. I'll probably buy a second more practical car. My advise would be - get the 3.0! Although I'm sure I would have loved a 1.9 just as much, the acceleration is just brilliant.

Type of dealer you bought from?

Independent

Did you buy this car new?

No

What price did you pay?

£6,000

When did you buy the car?

March 2009

Did you get a good deal and why?

Most definately. The 3.0 engined Z3 are less widely available than the 1.9 or 2.0 and the prices range from 5500 with uber high mileage in poor condition to 9000 with all the extras, hard top,low mileage etc. Mine had only done 38000 miles, Full BMWSH and was top spec. I bought it from a garage who priced it without seeing it and bought it half an hour after they'd had it delivered. Steal.

Is there any special reason why you bought this car?

I've loved the looks of them since they came out, realising how cheap they'd become, I spent 6 months searching for 'the right one'. Found it!

What was the dealer like?

Unaware of their folly

What's it like to drive?

Fantastic. Pulls through all the gears. So much torque. 0-60 in 5.7 (says 5.8 on here) is quicker than most comparable cars or roughly the same. With the roof down your face hurts from smiling. Handling been great,skips a bit on rough ground but feels glued to the road. Go slow in the wet though!

What's it like to park?

With the roof down - ace. With it up in the rain, NO visibility.

Have you had any problems with the car?

Yep, had an ABS sensor go on one wheel,cost £120 to fix,new rear window £240. Thats it. The car is everything I hoped it would be. Fast,very fast,fun, beautiful.

What's most practical about your car?

Ha...not much. Very little boot space, fuel consumption is bad and servicing costs are high. Dont pretend that they wont be.

Favourite gadget, option or accessory?

Electric roof a must,heated electric seats are cool though the 6 cd changer is awful and showing its age.