Automotive Journal

The Z3 was one of the first cars to roll off the assembly line from BMW’s South Caroline plant. On its first year made available to the general public, the Z3 had one package: a base-model convertible powered by a 1.9-liter inline-4 pumping out 138 hp. Standard features included an AM/FM/cassette player and cruise control. While the five speed manual transmission was standard, those wanting a cruising experience paid for the four speed automatic. Those plushy leather seats were available, along with traction control. Following up to the next year, the Z3 really gained its praise, due in part to the addition of another trim, the 2.8. Even though you’re smart enough to figure this out, this trim was powered by a 2.8-liter inline-6 – this same package in the lauded 190-hp six-cylinder that powered 3 Series models of the era. The Z3 also got its own little luxury upgrade, of a CD changer and heated seats.Zipping around town with a top down, you will need a BMW Z3 windscreen / windblocker / wind deflector.

Starting in 1998, the Z3 became more of an all-weather car thanks to the introduction of an optional power top. The Z3 couple followed up in 1999. Equipped with the 2.8-liter engine only, with its odd hatchback looks did make the body stiffer and more versatile, but the odd tail drew snickers and finger pointing from those who thought it ruined the lines of the stylish Z3. In that year, the 1.9-liter four-cylinder was taken out, replaced by a new 170-hp inline-6. Despite the 2.5-liter displacement, this model was oddly called a Z3 2.3 for 1999 and 2000. A Harman Kardon stereo became available, and a hardtop roof joined the options list on convertible models. The overall saftey of the car was enhanced thanks to the mandatory side airbags. Putting the top down in a Z3, you will need a BMW Z3 windscreen / windblocker / wind deflector.

Minor exterior and interior refreshes were in store for the BMW Z3 coupe and convertible in 2000, and stability control joined the standard features list. At the start of 2001, the 2.8 trim in both the coupe and convertible became the 3.0i, with the new addition of a 3.0-liter engine delivering 225 hp, also with 214 pound-feet of torque. The logically rechristened 2.5i powered out an extra 14 horses. Furthermore, the Z3’s four speeder automatic transmission was upgraded to a five speed automatic, enhanced with manual shifting capability. For 2002, its final year on the market, the BMW Z3 added a CD player to its standard features list.

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