1997 BMW Z3 Roadster 

The Z3 Roadster was BMW's response to the success of the Mazda Miata and development started in the early 90's.  They were introduced for the 1996 model year.  Built in South Carolina, Z3's are the first BMW to be built wholly outside of Germany.  Over the years, 9 different powertrains were available depending on year, distribution and option, and M-series versions of both the roadster and Z3 coupe represented the high performance models.  

For consignment, a garage kept and dealer serviced 1997 Z3 with a title verified 71,410 actual miles.  Based on the venerable E36 platform, the long hooded Z3's can pack a powerful punch under the hood with enough horsepower to fuel spirited rides with losing sensibility and everyday practicality.  We're thrilled to have one in our Hallowed Halls to offer and believe we have a fine example to show. 

Exterior
The dark blue is called Montreal Blue Metallic by BMW and it's in great shape on this car.  The tip of the nose features the familiar kidney grille, a low chin spoiler, and wide set fog lights.  The headlight covers which tend to haze up are crystal clear on this car.  Moving to the front fenders, we note the side vents which are a direct link to the legendary BMW 507 roadster of the 1950's, (available for about a million dollars if you find one).  The long door of the Z3 has a fixed quarter window and the side mirrors are set back where it meets the main window.  The windshield is raked, and the tail is notably shorter than the nose.  This car has a wide body style with fenders that flare from the sides.  A third brake light is integrated into the trunk lid and an external antenna is on the rear fender.  The tan canvas top is in good condition, contains a few scuffs and one small tear.  The plastic window is in decent condition.  Imperfections include some chipping in front of the rear wheels, a scratch on the front bumper, some peeling paint on the 17-inch wheels, and the seals around the door handles are dry and cracked, a common Z3 shortcoming, (but luckily, as a result, replacements are available). 

Interior
A nice contrast with the dark blue, a tan interior awaits us.  The molded plastic door panels with leather inserts are nicely designed and simple and include some of the only storage bins in the car.  The front bucket seats, also in tan textured leather, are in good shape although the driver's seat shows some wear.  The seatbelt guides are prone to breakage but this car's guides on both seats are intact!  The two tone steering wheel shows just a bit of wear and is presented in faux wrapped texturing.  The dash has four basic gauges and idiot lights along the bottom edge that light up when the key is turned on but darken when driving, unless there is a problem requiring attention.  The center stack is backed by faux wood and contains the heat and AC controls over an AM/FM/Cassette radio.  The shifter picks up on the wood theme and is wrapped in a tan leather boot.  Window switches flank the shifter.  A small storage bin with lid is further back along with the toggle switches for the heated seats.  The tan carpet is protected with fitted mats, and both are in great condition.  The trunk is finished with gray flannel like panels and mats and is surprisingly roomy.  In there, we find the factory window protector that prevents scratches when you put the top down. 

Drivetrain
This car is equipped with the 2.8 liter DOHC 6 -cylinder that is fuel injected, and is tied to a 5-speed manual transmission.  Power is sent to the rear wheels and 3.15 gears.  The engine bay is familiar if you're an E36 owner and is a tidy compartment with easy access to maintenance items.  UndercarriageThings are relatively clean and dry underneath.  We do find surface rust on some components, including the rear differential, but nothing of concern.  Some scrapes on the unibody are noted but not unexpected with a car this low.  The exhaust is a Super Sport stainless steel system that terminates in twin chrome tips from the sculpted valance cut out.  Independent suspension with coil springs occupies both ends. 

Drive-Ability
A true roadster!  Two seats and rear wheel drive.  The car cranks right up and has a very nice exhaust note which can be heard even with the canvas top up.  First gear provides good torque and quick revs and second gear comes up quickly.  The car has excellent acceleration, not blistering fast, but sporty quick to be sure.  In turns, the car is balanced and level and scoots forward on the straight away.  This is fun, but we have to get back to the garage!  All of the bells and whistles work which is only indicative of a Z3 that has been well maintained.  

We have many fine roadsters at Classic Auto Mall, and now you can throw Z3 into the mix!  These are well regarded cars with an enthusiastic following and aftermarket support.  They are head turners on the street and in the past year have been cited as “one to watch” in the collectible world.  This is a great opportunity to consider this fine example whether or not you were in the market for one! 

4USCJ3328VLC07568

4-USA
U-BMW USA
S-Passenger Car
CJ3-Z3 Convertible
3-Passenger Car
2-Manual Belts, Front Airbags
8-Check Digit
V-1997
L-Greer, SC Assy Plant
C07568-Sequential Unit Number

Classic Auto Mall is home to more than 1,000 classic and collectible vehicles for sale via consignment in a climate controlled 336,000-square foot showroom (that's more than 8 acres!). The largest single location consignment dealer of classic and collectible vehicles in the country is located in Morgantown, Pennsylvania, just 1-hour west of Philadelphia off Exit 298 of the I-76 Pennsylvania Turnpike. For more information visit www.classicautomall.com or call us at (888) 227-0914. Contact us anytime for more information or to come see the vehicle in person.

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