BMW Z3

[Bob Dog]

I'm thinking seriously about getting a BMW Z3 ( a 3.4 or 2.8 6cyl. 5spd. of course)for a pleasure/ weekend car, not something to put a lot of miles on, but the purchase prices of used ones has become really affordable, and I really am interested in getting one. I know that beamer parts prices are outrageous , but damn it all, you only go round once and I've wanted one since the first time I saw it, if you are going to buy something used, now appears to be the time to do it. Comments, input and advice ?

[YAR1S]

I owned a bmw ... transmission died on it ....
wouldnt buy another one, but then again it was an older 3 series.

good luck!

[yaris-me]

I love the German motors, the way they rev to redline, smoooooooth. The Japanese are coming close, but no cigar. Like you said, "You only go around once!":smile:

[Mouse]

Get a MIATA

[Sabretooth]

Miata is much better...parts are everywhere, cheap, and they well known fun cars to drive.

[Sabretooth]

Heres some video food for thought:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0eZNnVrVUAQ

Even though its a new video... shows they are fun even older

[ChinoCharles]

My advice: if you want it get it.

[TheRealEnth]

miatas and z3s comparable.... but if u want a z3, go for it, but imho i say u get a z31 =).. t tops are way better than convertible... and get it turbo

[ChinoCharles]

I hate the Miata. Formidable car, but everyone and their sister has one with the same damn package of modifications. Ugh.

[kustom play]

M Coupe > Z3 roadster

[Bob Dog]

$M3(3x>)$Z3

[Bob Dog]

Frankly part of what I like about the Z3 is the design: its lines reflect the whole heritage of the German sports roadster, . The Miata is certainly a more practical choice, and much more could be done to build it into handling and performance machine for far less money. I am certain that it would be more reliable as well. I do, however, think that the designerly and engineering qualities of the Z3 cause it to be a higher order of classic in the making. Besides, boys and girls, I already have one light weight japanese automobile with a sporting suspension which I am damn near in love with in the stable...

[Mouse]

The miata engineers were highly inspired by the old lotus elan. If it weren't for the miata there would be no z3, s2000, slk.....and any other convertible sports car that has come out since 1989.

[Bob Dog]

point gratefully taken, opinion retained

[Shroomster]

http://www.ssip.net/upload/bmw-m-coupe-side-1_120.jpg

... :drool: older m coupe

[Bob Dog]

Ponit of interest: The 3.4 used in some Z3s is the same basic engine as in the some M3s, slightly detuned due to the fact that the roadster's body was not long enough to accomadate the length of the entire exhaust system.