Original matching Rossiters main dealer BMW plates.
The Appeal
Equipped with BMW’s legendary 2.8-litre straight six and finished in the rather fetching and unusual hue of Violet Red, this is a really smart example of an early pre-facelift Z3. This car looks to have been properly maintained too with a service history over and beyond BMW's recommended intervals. When you realise that it is now a 23 year old car, it’s in rather remarkable condition as well.
This BMW’s interior looks fantastic, with only minimal marks throughout. The seats are generally in very good condition with the exception of a little wear to the driver’s bolster. This could quite possibly be touched in with some leather paint.
The sand beige seats exhibit a lovely finish that gives the leather a grainy look. This pattern is also mimicked onto the sand beige carpets which is a nice touch. The flashes of chrome on the door locks and switchgear also lend a premium feel. The buttons are all in good working condition and the radio functions too. When the roof is raised, there are no signs of leaks and the locking mechanisms are free from corrosion.
Overall, the interior is in great condition with minimal wear to seats, switchgear, carpets or controls.
That Violet Red paint really helps to accentuate the flared arches on this ‘Wide Body’ example. Unlike many BMW Z3s in pre-facelift guise, the arches and sills on this example look to be in good condition with no rust or paint bubbling.
Although the mileage on this Z3 is generally low for the year with 65,000 on the odometer, there are a few small marks such as the odd car park ding, some stone chips and the odd little scratch, but nothing that detracts from its overall presence.
The roof too is believed to be original and is tear free. The rear window has discoloured a little but this is a small price to pay for originality. The paint is in great, bright condition all over.
All of the badges, light lenses, windows and trim are in excellent condition and present very well. The car’s overall presence is fantastic, thanks to careful ownership, minimal use and the fact it was often garage stored.
The Z star alloy wheels are also in great condition with no curbing and generally free of corrosion, in fact, they look to be in their original BMW paint finish which is quite remarkable for a car of this age. The vendor informs us than new Goodyear tyres were fitted quite recently.
Engine bay is clean and tidy, with no obvious leaks
MOT with no advisories
Thermostat and coolant flush at 63k
Just received a new intake hose
Bushes on both front lower arms replaced at 61,000 miles
Under the bonnet the engine looks tidy with no obvious signs of leaks and all the original BMW wax is still present on the engine components and top mounts albeit a little hazy due to age.
The engine starts easily on a turn of the key and the car idles smoothly and sounds lovely with no unwanted noises. The car drives superbly, the gearbox is smooth and feels to be in good working order. The steering is precise thanks to just being professionally geo aligned. There are no unwanted noises from the suspension and the car stops keenly as to be expected on a car that has just had a BMW style inspection and service at a specialist.
Thanks to careful ownership and a strong maintenance record, the car really does drive as well as it looks.
This well looked after little roadster could well be the perfect modern classic. It would be perfect for someone who wants to drive something quirky and doesn’t want to be short changed on driving dynamics. With that LSD, slick 5 speed gearbox and powerful 2.8 straight-six, this car is a real hoot to drive and a pleasure to pilot down any British B-road.
Notice to bidders
This item is sold on an ‘As is Where is’ basis. The condition of this item is the opinion of the seller and may differ from your own opinion. Photos and listing descriptions are for guidance purposes only*.** Car & Classic do not warrant listing accuracy. Full inspection is recommended. Viewings are at the seller’s discretion. Buyer is responsible for delivery and collection of any item purchased.*
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1998 BMW Z3 2.8 Roadster
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