There were multiple cosmetic changes to the 1999 Z3 but not alterations to the "love it or hate it" body style that would have to wait until the 2000 model year for an overhaul.

Among the changes that were made in 1999 included the addition of standard, side impact air bags as well optional cruise control, a removable hardtop with a heated rear window, halogen free-form fog lights, and an in-dash CD player.

Beyond the cosmetic changes, 1999 was the year BMW upgraded the 1.9 liter engine previously included in the basic models to the 2.5 liter that produced 170 horsepower -- a 32 point jump from the previous year.