The BMW Z3 was a unique legendary car, sporting and convertible ride. Today we tell your story and a shopping guide if you’ve always wanted one.

In October 1995 It was launched BMW Z3, a sporty two-seater with longitudinal engine rear drive, available in convertible body with a canvas roof and, soon after, also in coupe. Initially it came with two 4 cylinder engines, but in 1996 already he joined the range 1 June cylinder 2.8L displacement. Later would even version M, 6-cylinder with 321 hp and new mechanics … until finally, it was Discontinued in 2002. Eventually, the BMW Z3 became one of the most exciting sports and exclusive brand, considered today as a sought-after collector’s item. Although

It is not yet listed as a classic car at times, it will certainly be a future classic that will revalue more. So today we bring you this report become practically a Buying Guide.

When considering a BMW Z3, If what is sought is the appeal body, one of its four cylinders in good condition and is a few kilometers better than a six-cylinder that is not so good purchase. Other Z3 practical advantage of the four-cylinder, as buying second hand, it is a much greater supply. Therefore, it is easier to find one in good condition or the combination of body colors, upholstery and soft top that one would want.

If in addition to the body what is sought in the BMW Z3 is a certain level of performance, do not choice but to use a six-cylinder. Now where it is really no difference in engine versions 2.8 or 3 liters. The transient 2-liter six-cylinder and 2.2 that replaced are faster than the four-cylinder 1.9 CV 140 but, as with six-cylinder engines BMW at that time (especially with lower displacement), power is noticeable when the car goes very fast. In normal driving, the difference in performance is not so clear and you will notice even fewer who use a lot of long marches.

The does the stability: the six-cylinder better not go and, under certain conditions, contrary. Although not as much as in note BMW 3 Series E36 with the Z3 is related, the four-cylinder versions have a tendency to understeer slightly less than six. One good thing about a classic like this that came to the XXI century, the future is have stability control. Was optional and it’s not a bad idea to look for one to take you even if you actually just installed a car so we seek to walk.

BMW Z3: engine and transmission

He BMW Z3 was made with three different four-cylinder engines. In the release was a 1.8 two valves per cylinder and distribution belt that yielding 116 hp, and a 1.9 four valves and chain 140 hp. In the first, the belt should be changed every 60,000 km or three years, so you should ask for the bill last change. Since 1999 there was only a four cylinder, 1.9 l of 8 valves and distribution chain. The four-cylinder engines with BMW iron block this time are tough. Possible problems are to be found in auxiliary elements, such as the water pump and radiator supports.

The manual gearbox had five relationships and the second synchronizer may be worn. All these boxes BMW at that time have a hard drive, but lets change rapidly. If there are noises to engage second faster, better look for another car or have a costly repair. It is also BMW characteristic of a tough clutch and engaging when the pedal is very high; I have much dead travel is normal. Like many of the era BMW, all four-cylinder versions reach maximum speed above the maximum speed. The fifth is direct (the ratio is 1: 1), something that was very rare in the 90s, except for BMW. It is a fact no practical importance but it serves to say “I’ve gotten direct” phrase stale.

BMW Z3: frame

The suspension is essentially a 3 Series E36: It has front MacPherson struts with lower triangles. The cups of the dampers can make noise, either by attrition or by mounting badly done by changing the shock absorbers. In any case, it is not a difficult or expensive problem to fix. The steering knuckles are another element that suffers the most damage and, if indeed it is, is noted for some slack in the direction. Nor is an expensive breakdown.

The rear suspension is the drag triangles BMW has used for so long. It is mounted on a subframe with bushings which tend to yield. It is noted for noise and uneven wear of the rear wheels. Must pay attention to tire condition because the Z3 is a delicate car when the rear axle is reduced (curves slope). In traction, four-cylinder versions do not give problems that they can give six. Series dampers are rather soft. If indeed what is looking for this car is to enjoy it daily and at a normal pace, it makes little sense that when replacing touch, put some harder. Yes, some-not necessarily duros- Bilstein cost less than the original BMW. Nor brakes pose any particular problem and perishable items are not expensive to replace.

BMW Z3: interior, electricity and body

The worse body of the BMW Z3 is that the deposit protrudes far from the bottom and can be bent. If so, the repair is costly and not everyone does it well. Interestingly, the car may have trouble starting from worn ignition key. When choosing a second hand unit, you should consider having hardtop, which makes the car much more rewarding to use in winter. The fault warning light engine failure is reset easily, although the problem has not been repaired. it is best to connect the motor to a “tester”.

Although BMW manufactured in the United States in the 90s (Like this Z3) they did not have the quality of German, It is not a car with serious defects. Windshields of modern cars are less resistant than the “classic”. He Z3, a modern car has a flimsy windshield. The tightness of the hood is questionable, it is not unusual that water. The top window is plastic and, like most, tends to lose transparency. The good news is that, besides the original BMW parts, others are easily found in US and cost half.

BMW Z3: Quotes

Finally, we end the story on the BMW Z3 recalling today, what their prices are. A BMW Z3 1.8 / 1.9 manufactured between 1995 and 1999 It is quoted between 5,000 and 9,000 euros, and up. Meanwhile, a BMW Z3 1.9 from among 1999 and 2002 can cost between 8,000 and 14,000 euros, also with a clear tendency to rise.

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