| Overall Rating |
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| Description |
| The BMW Z3 is attractive, fun and meticulously designed. When compared to small sportster cars in the past few years, it clearly stands out and with the introduction of the new BMW Z4 which is the replacement to the Z3, the price of the Z3 has fallen making it a realistic and sensible choice. |
| Handling |
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| Comfort |
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| Quality & Reliability |
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| Performance |
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| Roominess |
 |
| Running Costs |
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| Value for Money |
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| Stereo/Sat Nav |
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| NCAP |
| Not tested |
| Best Models |
| 2.2, 3.0 |
| Worst Models |
| None |
| Replacement |
| by Z4 in 2003 |
|
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| Road Test |
The BMW Z3 roadster is a two-seater with a very stylish and powerful design. Now that the BMW Z4 is available, the Z3 is less desirable, despite this it still has the reputable BMW image which makes it a leader in its class compared to the MGF, Mazda MX-5 and Toyota MR2.
The BMW Z3 is a fun car to drive and to look at, most of the success with Z3 comes down to the design which has less of an aggressive manly feel. The Z3 is a lifestyle purchase and can be customized with BMWs huge range of extras. Because of all of this the Z3 is enticing to men and women.
There are a number of engine choices in the BMW Z3 from the 1.8 and 1.9 four-cylinder to the 2.0 and up six-cylinder which really changes the rear-wheel drive in a positive way.
The handling on the Z3 is proportionate with a tight chassis and meticulous steering. When it comes to the driving experience you can expect a smooth drive but it is not a soft one. When the hood is up the finesse of the Z3 is clear to see. |
| Positive Points |
- Great presence for a small sports car
- Inherits 3-Series engines and handling
- Well built, reliable and affordable to run
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| Negative Points |
- Some critics reckon that it?s overstyled
- Expensive alongside MGF or MX-5
- Only really sparkles with bigger engines
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