2000 BMW Z3 Reviews

I just love the looks. When it was launched, it gave me associations to old english roadsters, that no BMW has ever made since (well the Z8 too actually). The engine was old, the chassis was old, but the cool factor was brand new. The first convertible I ever thought of buying (and did).

If i had the means to keep my former cars in a large garage, this would be the first one that I would keep forever. I still turn my head to watch, when I see one in the streets today. It's simply a classic in my view.

I have longed for this '00 BMW M Coupe ever since I bought my '99 M Roadster (which was a reasonably good car but could certainly be better).  The difference was immediately noticeable - tight, tight chassis where everything were so connected.  Power slides were made easy without that "wheel hop" found in the M Roadster.  Even the engine sounded better due to the better resonance characteristics of the closed cabin.  The rare and unique fastback design also gave this car a most distinctive sillouette not found in any previous BMWs or otherwise, a design that will never grow old with trained or untrained eyes.  The handling performance of this vehicle was the function of its shorter wheel base (vs. the e36 M3) and the dated semi-trailing arm rear suspension.  As a result, cornering was always an adventure requiring a great deal of efforts to keep the rear end planted - any uncertainty on the part of the right foot will cause the rear end to step out violently (a result of the ever changing rear camber during suspension travel).  This was why stiffer spring rates (to limit suspension travel) and lowered ride height (to increase neg. camber) would be highly recommended for driving this car beyond 8/10th on the track.  This car tolerated no mistakes on the driver's part, but was exceptionally rewarding to negotiate around the track.  It turned better and tighter than an M3, and it also out accelerated and out braked the same (for its 200 lbs. weight advantage).  Track pads, however, will still be necessary as any BMW brakes were not meant for performance driving and would be most apparent usually after 2 hot laps.  While the S52 engine was hardly considered exotic nor powerful (240 hp) and lacked immediate throttle response (no individual intake butterflies here), the flat torque curve and low maintenance requirement made this engine more than bullet-proof for track use, and exceptional for street driving.  The 5-speed transmission was one of the best BMW had employed with positive engagement every shift, the limited slip differential also worked transparently, all what BMW was so famous for.  As a daily driver, the ride was never objectionable, the chassis had the stiffness to handle any road imperfection.  Interior room was more than adequate for 2 (and will not accommodate a 3rd) with exciting visual thanks to the chrome ringed guages, contrast stitched leather console, and the clamshell hood line.  Build quality was adequate with wider than average panel gappings.  Sheet metal were wave free like any other less curveous BMWs, but unfortunately, the clear coat also exhibited the same level of orange peel just the same.  Overall, this car ranked 3rd over the 9 BMWs I owned but is by far the most focused.

For the price it's just plain awesome!!

It's my first convertible and the first BMW.  I have alway wanted one and I am very excited.  I am especially impressed with the structural stability, absolutely no rattles.  Suspension is extremely tight and smooth.  All this, from a car with 96,000 miles on it.  

Mint.................................if a bit hair-dresser-ified.