1998 BMW Z3 Consumer Reviews
Most Helpful Reviews
Positive Review
Camping areas are accessed via small, twisty, winding roads. Who wants to drive a truck on that? Those roads are MADE for a nimble, quick sportscar. The Z3 coupe will get you and your camping gear there in fun and style. Awww yeah.
VS
Critical Review
Despite just over average ratings, I appreciate this car. It is simple in cockpit design, few bells and whistles. It is a bit squirrely on high speed curves, but overall handles very well. So, why do I take the time to review this car? Because I enjoyed driving it so much, a few years ago I figured I'd trade up and buy a Z4 when that was the latest version, which I'd heard had corrected that tendency to wiggle a bit in the rear end. I figured it could only be a "new and improved" version. I drove over to my original seller, told him what I wanted. We agreed on a price. Then he said, "I always recommend a buyer actually DRIVE the car he's purchasing." So, that striking me as eminently advisable, I did. I found the Z4's automatic transmission with manual shift option decidedly inferior to my Z3 in its' manual mode. Also, the Z4's "simulated road feel" did not convey the great ACTUAL road feel of the Z3. I went back into the dealer and vociferously thanked my salesman. I told him he had done me a great favor. I kept and still have my 3, and enjoy it as much as ever. The heater is great and one of my most memorable rides was a trip into the Rockies, west of Lyons, Colorado, drifting along curvy mountain roads with the top down in the middle of winter, snow flakes falling and dissolving on me and the car's interior. I write this in 2013 and probably will be driving this car, if still alive, in 2023. One other note: if I were buying this car now, I'd buy the 4 cylinder version. After my first serious speeding ticket, I've kept it always at speed limit. On the other hand, it's fun to have the acceleration option. Still, the "presumed" gas mileage difference would be suitable consolation. Current gas mileage is not bad, though, somewhere in the high twenties. My favorite ever car. I'm 71 and have owned a few.
1998 Z3 Reviews
Showing 8 of 297 reviews.
I just bought a 2000 Z3 so no clue on maintenance costs. The original owner only drove in around 1100 miles per yr. Mine has a hard top and was hard to find. A soft top in Cincinnati isn't idea and noisy on the highway. I bought new tires and changed all the fluids. So far it runs fantastic and it's a blast to drive. The interior feels like a car from 1965 but it has a cool retro vibe. My car has no modifications, and it will stay that way except maybe a better stereo. I kept my CRV for winter. Go get one.
Beautiful and competent
Some interior design, like the original radio to .
It’s a wonderful car to drive. It’s so easy putting the top down. It handles curves like no other roadster. It’s great on gas mileage and it’s a real sports car without any problems I have found. Thayer are very difficult to find. All colors are very appealing as it’s shape is very sexy. Even as a female, who knows nothing about repairs it’s a very simple car to work on for myself. I highly recommend this car as a great weekend car or everyday vehicle. It’s like looking at a great piece of artwork. I would buy one all over again. I am confident in it’s ability to go back and forth to the Gulf from North Georgia. I highly recommend if you like sports cars be assured you, if you can find a one owner and it’s in excellent condition, you should consider it as a simple car with upkeep and you can find parts very easily.
great looks and performance .
hard to get in and out.
Love the looks and response from others and so much fun to drive. Hugs the road and the six inline engine has such a great sound.Hey i,m 83 years of age this little car makes me feel twenty years younger Ha ! that's still pretty old, oh well whatever..
Fun to drive! Great gas mileage
Small. Won't hold a lot of people
ultimate driving machine 2002 bmwz3 roadster 3.0i,titanium silver metalic, black Nevada leather, premium package power soft top, maple wood trim,3.o liter, five speed manual transmission, dynamic brake control, stability with all season traction, gas-pressurized front struts, rear shock absorbers, mixed width cast alloy wheels with225/45/r17 front and245/40/r17 rear performance tires, dual threshold smart air bags, roll over protection bar, remote 2 unlocking steps unlock and trunk release, AC, leather wrapped steering wheel, gear shift, boot, hand break grip and boot. Anti-theft, am stereo and cd. Premium audio system with ungraded speakers, high performance multi-channel amplifer and subwoofer; power adjustable seats; center console valet and cupholders and coin holder, service interval indicator, central locking system with double lock feature, power windows with one touch up and down operation. Dual power outside mirrors. 21 city and 29 Highway mpg.
drives like fast go cart
sound system needs update
no dents dings or rust kept in garage every night for 23 years runs perfect beautiful car kept in garage approx 20 of 23 days for 23 years
Fun to drive. Turns heads
2 seats
Z3's are excellent cars. Put nearly 200,000 on my first one. Economical but fast. Hi end convertible. Excellent handling. You like to turn heads? This car does it. Unmatched quality.
Stylish fun to drive, piwerful, luxurious
High maintenance
Fun car to drive, performs well and it gets a lot of attention on the road. My only complaint is the maintenance seems a bit overwhelming. I had to have the transmission rebuilt before 90000 miles and there have been a few minor but annoying issues. However, I do recommend this vehicle but keep in mind that maintenance costs with follow you along the way. Its a great Sunday car to take on a nice cruise for the day with the top down. You do get a nice open feeling with the top down and you hear that beautiful sound of that fined tuned, powerful motor supporting your drive.
Fun to drive....even James Bond liked this one.
Speedometer works some time. Radio doesn't work.
New convertible top, new catalytic converter, recent McPhearson struts replaced, new air monitor, bushings in both seat brackets replaced, great mechanical condition and appearance.
