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.

It looks great, fun to drive, very cool AC, Excellent sound system, electric top fast to set up,no major mechanical problems, maintenance was always done. It keeps its value, 52,000 miles in a BMW is nothing. You will love it.

The Z3's low end acceleration is weak but the high end acceleration is quick and responsive. The braking capabilities are fair unfortunately pads and rotors wear out quickly. Handling is very tight and responsive, it is comfortable at high speeds and solid in corners. The car is fun to drive and the overall performance is satisfying. It is very well built and designed. The engine is solid and rarely has any mechanical issues and I have yet to have a problem with the drive line.The worst problem I've had mechanically is the mass air flow meter. Apart from routine maintenance it rarely needs any attention. The body is aerodynamic and responds well to wind and high speeds. The top is the weak point to the exterior, the stitching has an annoying habit of coming undone and the plastic back glass is easily scratched. The interior doesn't respond well to age and has far too many weak plastic pieces. The overall appearance is pleasing. The paint has nice depth and compliments the curvature of the body. The roadster version has a body designed to be an instant classic, with the top down it is very sporty and aesthetically appealing. The interior is sporty and comfortable for a sports car, there is plenty of leg room. It has just the right amount of accents, although I don't care much for the mock wood grain. The cost of owning the car is less than I originally expected. Fuel mileage is fair for the straight six under the hood, you can expect 24 mpg in the city and roughly 30 mpg on the highway. Fill up from empty is acceptable as the fuel tank caps out at 10 gallons. The oil change has a tendency to be a bit expensive as it requires 6.5 quarts of full synthetic oil and the filter averages out at 14 dollars. The wear items wear according to the driver. It is very low maintenance for a BMW. The BMW Z3 is very fun to drive and has a lot to offer. Whether you like to drive around town, glide down curvy roads, or even drift through corners then the car is a thrill to own. However, if running red light to red light or running the drag track is your preference then this car is not for you. Over all the Z3 is very fun to drive.

For the driver that is looking for a sports car that is reasonably priced there is no better choice.

It's a great car that I'd recommend. It could definitely use a boost in Acceleration, so I'd recommend the 2.8 or Z3M over this car. Cost of ownership is great. Mass produced car with plenty of parts available on eBay at low costs. Lots of do it yourself guides. This car gets more attention than a lot of the newer BMW'z (barring the newly redesigned Z4). The Engine sound is melodic. Handling is superb (just make sure you over- inflate your tires slightly. Around 35- 36 psi) The standard Pleather seats are a true drag and take away greatly from the overall feel of the car, so make sure you get one with the real Leather seat upgrades (believe me...very important. pleather = slip and slide, dry and cracked). Absolutely would buy another one, although with the Z3M model for the bigger engine. The only reason I got rid of this one is because I crashed it just last night. :(