[ ADS ON TEST ]
Who needs an M, wonders John-Joe Vollans, as he tries out an overlooked low-mileage straight-six roadster
Fade-prone red paintwork still lustrous
The 2.8 is something of a sweet spot in the Z3 range. It has the grunt to entertain but isn’t in the least intimidating, especially as later examples (post-1997) came with in-built stability control. This example is one of the best that we’ve tested. The mechanical condition appears to match the cosmetic quality too, proving both tight and accurate behind the wheel. That big six-cylinder engine still seemingly offers plenty of poke, feeling strong and healthy, having had its oil changed in February 2024 at 12,950 miles. Braking is equally adept, the centre pedal pulling this Z3 up strong and straight. It’s a joy to drive.
The incredibly low mileage conjures up expectations of near-new condition, but let’s not forget, this Z3 is now nearly 27 years old. Considering those near three decades have been spent on UK roads, this car’s condition is remarkable; panels still gleam with the brilliance of the showroom. We couldn’t find any marks of significance worth mentioning. The lights haven’t faded or clouded and the trim, including the vulnerable wing mirror caps, still appear near pristine. Those lovely big Nineties five-spoke alloy wheels also seem in great shape; with quality new matching Goodyear tyres all round.
Looks barely satin – because it is
Ostrich-like dotted material covers the seat centres, door cards and floormats and looks fantastic, contrasted by deep red hide to the rest of the seat bases and backs. The cabin looks and functions like new, with barely any wear visible. All buttons appear to be operating their respective functions and there’s even a factory audio upgrade, courtesy of a Sony 10-disc CD changer – mounted in the boot – with a complementary Sony stereo in the dash. BMW Car Club and Z Register stickers are proudly placed at the base of the windscreen, suggesting at least one enthusiast former keeper. This Z3 also boasts a few interior goodies, ticked via the factory options list, namely a leather trimmed M Sport steering wheel and Chrome-Line highlights.
It’ll likely come as no surprise to learn that the engine bay of this Z3 looks just as good as the rest of it. There’s a lot of plastic but it’s not as covered in the stuff as many other modern classics are. Lifting the huge bonnet, we were greeted by a pristine bay, with no signs of any obvious leaks or even deterioration. The history file, which is comprehensive, shows 14 service stamps. Good going for any car of its age but considering it’s only covered a little over 13,000 miles, it’s remarkable. Despite the tiny distances recorded, this Z3 was treated to servicing.
Maintained regardless of mileage
It’s extremely easy to recommend this Z3. The car’s condition is remarkable throughout and is backed up by a good history file. It drives just as tight and neatly as expected for such a near showroom example and, although we’d usually prefer to drive our classics, this is probably one to savour for the odd special summertime memory-making excursion. Price is high for the model, but given the mileage and condition it’s understandable. And it still undercuts an M Roadster in comparable condition, yet is no less fun to drive.
CHOOSE YOUR BMW Z3
► Built in Spartanburg, South Carolina in the US and based on the E36-generation 3 Series, the BMW Z3 was launched in 1995 with an initial choice of single-cam 1.8 and twin-cam 1.9-litre four-cylinder engines.
► Six-cylinder versions arrived in 1997, in 2.3 and 2.8-litre forms, plus the wide-bodied Z3M with a 3-litre 325bhp engine from the M3. The two largest-engined models also available as three-door shooting-brake coupés.
► Twin-cam four-cylinder detuned from 1999 to boost appeal of new six-cylinder models – a short-lived 148bhp 2.0-litre, superseded by a 168bhp 2.2-litre unit in 2000.
► Also in 2000, 2.3-litre was replaced by a 184bhp 2.5, and 198bhp 2.8 by 228bhp 3.0. All models replaced by new Z4 in 2002.
1998 BMW Z3 2.8
Price £14,995
Contact KGF Classic Cars, Peterborough (01733 425140, kgfclassiccars.co.uk)
Engine 2793cc in-line six-cylinder, dohc, fuel injection
Power 189bhp @ 5300rpm
Torque 203lb ft @ 3950rpm
Top speed 137mph
0-60mph 6.9sec
Fuel consumption 20-38mpg
Length 4025mm
Width 1692mm
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