Purchase Z3?

[Scushkadee]

Hello,

Currently I'm driving a 1989 190E Mercedes, I'm ready for something new. The 1996 Z3 becomes a better and better idea every time I think about it. I thought I would get some opinions on this car from others who have ridden or own one? What do you think of its ride quality, its performance, insurance costs? For insurance, I know that premiums change, I'm just looking for a number to consider in this.

Thank you

Niels

[spieluhr]

i love driving my mom's z3. Faster than a bat out of hell and only a 2.3 liter! They are light and handle very well. I would highly recomend one, the only problem we have had with it in about a year of owning it is the water pump blew adn caused some havac but thats about tit.

[sixbanger]

I happen to have a 1998 Z3 2.8 and have to say it has been one of the best cars I have owned. The car is so much fun to drive I can not tear myself out of the thing. I am a over the road sales rep and put almost 40 thousand miles a year on a car, the Z is the car I drive. The ride is good for the type of car, but road noise is a bit of a problem, but not bad. Currently I have 120G miles on the thing and all I have had to do is put breaks on her. I have done some other mods, but not because I have had to. Now regarding the 1996, I believe that would be a 1.8 four cylinder correct? I had one of these as well, another 98, I have to say I was real disappointed with the power it also has a bit different body, not as wide. If you are going to purchase a Z then go for the largest motor you can find, you can never have to much HP. If you would like I will sell you mine! I would like to purchase the ZM.

sixbanger

[ncdiver40]

Originally posted by Scushkadee@Jan 17 2005, 09:16 PM
Hello,

Currently I'm driving a 1989 190E Mercedes, I'm ready for something new. The 1996 Z3 becomes a better and better idea every time I think about it. I thought I would get some opinions on this car from others who have ridden or own one? What do you think of its ride quality, its performance, insurance costs? For insurance, I know that premiums change, I'm just looking for a number to consider in this.

Thank you

Niels

[snapback]273701[/snapback]

Get a 1997 with the 6 cylinder in it...much faster and more fun to drive. I won one with the 2.9l and love it.

[solman96]

i love my 1999 Z3 i have had this one for almost 2 years and my first i had for a year before the wreck. they are fast agile and really worth the money. i have been in love with these cars since they came out in 96 even been to the museum in SC to see them made. My grandfather has a 1989 SL 560 benz and i have drove it since i was 16 and the feel is not the same the benz is a nice car but it just doesnt do anything for me since i got behind the wheel of a Bimmer.

[just_program]

My wife has a '99 Z3 2.3, which is really a 2.5L M54 Dual Vanos motor. I still dont understand why BMW badged it this way. Fun car to drive. Handles really well and plenty quick for spirited driving. Some things to consider when purchasing a Z3 are the condition of the soft top and rear window. On a '96 model, if it hasnt already been replaced it most likely will need to be. Usually the rear window cracks first and that has to be replaced by the dealer, around $500. The soft top on a '96 will need to be replaced in the next couple of years most likely. That is around $1400. I just had the rear window replaced on my wifes car, so these prices are fairly current. The list of aftermarket parts is growing for these cars, so personalization should be fairly easy. Good luck.

[zuudbye]

Good morning, brand new member.
I have a "96 1.9 and love it. But MORE POWER is always good. You'll really see it in the very short 1st and more squat 2nd gears, then 3rd will just power out quick to 6500rpm. But the 1.9 is quick & nimble. Have Bilsten lower sport shocks & H&R lowering springs, tight as ever. Then on the highway- downshift to 3rd at 70'ish and you are where you want to be before any other car thinks about moving. After 4 - 6 months you really get used to the small feel. After a year or so it becomes a very initimate car, the feel you get after time can't be beat, you will always have a smile on your face when you arrive.

Then the summer comes! Top down cruising and road trips to the INDY 500 and USGP can't be beat. And the small boys always stare as you go by and say "Cool car!". most all others look longingly- you'll just smile!

Early 1.9 are cheap but a 2.3 ot 2.8 would be an absolute gas!!

As others have said DEALER maintenance can be expensive, hook up with a BMW/MINI mechanic doing side work or by yourself if you have the space, it is a very basic uncomplicated car. No room to stuff anything absolutly not required. I had my top replaced in Spring 2004 cost 800 in the Wash DC metro area.

[zuudbye]

Insurance cost. I had a Geo Metro with only West Virginia minimum collision on it and this went up approx $30 per month of the '96 Z3 with full coverage. I am over 40 with a clear driving record. I don't know the monthly rate but the monthly increase was much less than I expected when I bought it. Insurance cost didn't even cross my mind when I bought mine.

[bmw4life]

we had a z3 and just sold it, it was a 2000 2.8 it was such a nice car and it was so fast, we didnt drive it in the winter and i doubt its any good in the snow but it was an amazing car i high recomend buying it

[baltimore325i]

My mother has a 2000 2.8, and it is one of the funnest cars I have ever driven. The car is fast as hell and handles great. I love that car and am considering buying one myself.

[94BMW325i]

saw a silver 98 z3 with the 2.8 engine 5 speed, with 65k for $11,500 is that good? My mom wants a 2 door convertible so that would be a cool car.