The BMW Z3M was developed in secret by BMW’s Motorsport division as something a bit too focused and unorthodox for mainstream BMW tastes. However, approval for production was given and the Z3M was launched in roadster form in 1997. It was something of a sales success with 15322 roadsters produced between 1997 and 2002 when production ended.
It’s easy to see why these cars are so great and developing something of a colt following. The naturally aspirated 3.2 litre straight six S50 engine delivers 236 kW (321PS) at 7,400 rpm and 350 N⋅m (260 lb⋅ft) at 3,250rpm, giving a 0-60mph time of 5.0 secs and an electronically limited top speed of 250 km/h (155 mph). The chassis has been extensively modified with the brakes and Limited Slip Differential from the BMW M3 E36, upgraded and tuned suspension and a specifically engineered wider rear track that is unique to the Z3M.
We are really pleased to be able to offer this BMW Z3M, first registered in April 1999 and having only had 4 owners, the last since 2005. It has covered 80000 miles but only 4000 miles in the last 10 years. There is a well stamped service book and owners handbooks etc with the car including a complete tool kit and the folding hood cover.
It has just come out of long term partial storage and these pictures were taken before full detailing and preparation. Mechanically the Z3M will be serviced and full re-commissioning done by the guys at “Z Shed” who really know these cars. All the correct M derived parts are in place and a quick look at the boot floor shows no evidence of damage caused by the rear differential mounts flexing.
The interior is in great condition showing minor signs of wear on the driver’s seat commensurate with the mileage. Everything works and it’s a great place to be. The Estoril Blue Metallic paint presents really well and the whole car has the feel of a car that has been enjoyed and driven but not abused. The owner saying he never took the car out in the rain or drove it very hard. The MOT is good until November 2022 with no advisories over the last 10 MOT passes.
These cars are an exhilarating drive with no electronic aids to help you just a beautifully tuned and balanced rear wheel drive chassis, manual gearbox and a wonderfully powerful engine that sounds stunning through the quad exhaust pipes particularly with the hood down. Cars like this will never be built again, dwindling supply and a realisation of how great these cars are is driving prices in only one direction. To mark the 50th anniversary of BMW’s Motorsport division “Pistonheads” recently ran a reader survey to find the best M-car of all time. The Z3M made it into position 10, no mean feat when you realise the quality of BMW Motorsports line up over the 50 years.
Year : 1999
Price : £19950 ono
