1998 BMW Z3

Classic Roadster Formula Updated

Performance: 3 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 3 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

When this car first came out I was in grad school and was smitten by the styling. So once I graduated and got a job, I bought one!!! It's an awesome little roadster. It corners flat and with the 1.9 you don't have enough power to really make it loose it's composure. The 1.9 z3 has adequate power with the manual transmission and very good handling. I'd avoid the automatic b/c the engine does not provide enough torque. Having test drove a MR2 spider and a Miata, I prefer the Z3. It's better looking, better value and is extremely comfortable. Oh and my gas mileage has to be around 35mpg. I drove a 2.3 (slight improvement) and a 2.8 (seriously quick), but in the end preferred my 1.9

Hot stuff

Performance: 4 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 4 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 4

This is a jazzy car. It looks more like a cartoon car from Roger Rabbit, than a street vehicle. Lows, fuel economy, tired back window. Highs, ride, look, reliability.

Love this car

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 4 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 4

This is a keeper. It is fun to drive, has classic looks and seems to work most of the time. I have had to have a seatbelt replaced, replaced one sensor, and had recurrent problems with an annoying buzz in the bass speaker and have problems with one of the electric seat motors. The sound system is weak for a car this nice and the plastic window in the rag top is pretty cheap also. But overall it is a well built fun car. If you find one in good shape buy it and keep it.

First Sports Car

Performance: 4 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I had always wanted to own a Corvette, but when I reached the point where I had the cash to buy a sports car I opted for a BMW. My decision was driven by BMW's reputation for quality engineering and workmanship. Having owned a couple of BMW motorcycles and having ridden them from coast to coast and border to border more than once, I figured that a Z3 had to be a rugged machine if it was built like the motorcycles that roll out of the BMW factory. Driving a Z3 is just as much fun as riding a motorcycle and you get a lot more respect. BMW did a fantastic job of sculpting the sheet metal -- the car does attract attention where ever you drive it. I'll take my Z3 over a 'Vette any day.

Z3

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I purchased my Z new in 1998 strictly as a toy. It is driven no more than 1000 to 15001 miles per year. I absolutely love how it performs on the back roads. We take it on weekend getaways during the summer and fall looking for challenging roads to use it to its full potential. It is a blast to drive and people who see it always have plenty of comments on how great she looks. Bring the original back!!

Best car I've ever owned.

Performance: 4 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Fun, fun, fun. I bought this car used with 50,000 miles on it and drove it for two years and never had a problem with it, not one thing broke. The only thing I did was do oil changes and put gas. I would have still it if the car wasn't manual transmission and I didn't live in Miami (traffic is horrible here). Clearly the Z3 is one of BMW's best built cars.

I love it, but.....

Performance: 4 Comfort: 3 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 3 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 3 Reliability: 4 Comfort Rating: 3 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 3 Reliability Rating: 4

I bought this car, because of it's looks and the price was fantastic!!! I love this car but, let me prequalify, my issues should be more with the previous owner than the manufacturer. The side window gaskets leak something terrible! So much so that the driver's side floor board is soft and spongy. The person that had changed their oil had left the small oil filter gasket in the filter housing on several occasions which resulted in the rings wearing out with time and crumbling into small bits all through the system and developing in a nasty oil leak and cost over $600.00 to fix. The hoses pop off for no apparent reason but, these do not detract from this beautiful car, in my opinion.

My M roadster

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

This car is awesome! I purchased the M Roadster version of the Z3 which includes more horsepower(240hp) with a slightly larger 6 cyl. engine and a sportier suspension. The car drives and handles amazingly as if you are glued to the road. The performance is excellent with one flaw being the fast reving when your hard on the gas.the gas milage is decent when your not hard on the driving. The only problem I have had is the amount of room in the cockpit area. Movement is limited but that's what you expect with a 2 seat roadster. The two-tone black and blue leather interior is beautiful and goes very well with the silver paint. If you're looking for a Z3 but want a little more, check out the M!

What driving should profess to be...

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 3 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 3 Exterior Design: 4 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 3 Reliability Rating: 5

Overall I would rate this car a definite buy with a few caveats. First, take a close look on all the repair work done on this vehicle. As most 1998 Beamers will have over 100,000 miles, I would be aware of what has been done and what is needed to ensure no surprises and fun in the sun. Make sure all 30,000 mileage inspections aII have been performed along with upkeep with the interior and tires. In addition, I would check all BMW's part recall information such as the thermostat replacement. My experience with the Z3 for the last 4+ years has been great. The car has a great engine and I feel the handling is decent. If you do your homework, you'll be very happy...

Too Much Fun

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

I am having a ball in this car. I've driven it roundtrip between Key West & Rochester, NY. Extremely comfortable for 14 hour days on the road. I just picked up my Christmas tree in it last weekend (top down, of course!) I want to tour the West and see the stars at night! Can't wait to go. If you want to be treated like a celebrity, drive this car!

Ice Cream Runner Z3

Performance: 4 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 4 Interior Design: 3 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 4 Reliability: 4 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 3 Reliability Rating: 4

My wife had to have it. We imediately replaced the loose seats with aftermarket and it's been a joy. Tops are easily fixed or replace and it's a looker. Inexpensive fun and 30 mpg. Exactly what we wanted. Pleasant ride. Manual tops seem to work better with these models. Give one a try.

Fun car to drive

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 4 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 4

I just bought this car in 10/03 and I absolutely love it! For a 98, it looks and handles great! I test drove it on the west side of Cincy on curvy SR roads and it was an instant sale. The only problem I had was replacing several seals on my convertible top/front windshield, but I guess that should be expected with a 6 yr old convertible. I had to drop $2000 the first month I owned it and now another $500 for a carb sensor, fan or something. I knew the maintenance would be expensive, but that hurt a little. Even with these costs, I still love the car (as long as another $2K bill doesn't come up within a yr)

1998 Z3 2.8 Roadster

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

Best car I ever owned (until I bought my 2001 740iL). Still turns heads today even though it's seven years old. If you have the 17 in. wheels, avoid driving in winter --traction is nil. The 17 in. wheels differentiate the car from others. Engine, drivetrain, fit and finish have been outstanding. Poor air conditioner and stereo --those are the most disappointing features. The absolute exhilarating driving experience makes any flaws minor in comparison. I am extrememly happy with my decision and would buy this car again.

Car Review

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

This car is awesome

BMW 1998 1.9 L Z3

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

This has been an amazing vehicle. I have never had any drive train problems and in fact it runs as well today as when I bought it 6 years ago brand new. I feel the styling of this car is best of any roadster on the road! As small as this car is the ride is amazingly comfortable; the footprint is wide and the car is heavy. It handles like it is on rails!

Reliable

Performance: 5 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Not a commuting car, a fun car!

The Ulitmate Driving Machine-Ask 007

Performance: 4 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Have the 1.9 4 cyl. engine and has plenty of power and oomph. Not as fast as the 2.3 6 cyl. or the Audi TT however this car is a "touring car" first and not a sports car. Its looks and handling make it a blast to drive and quite an eye catcher. All in all a great value. Top speed I am told is around 130 mph however vehicle is electronically limited to 115 mph. So although some have complained about the 4 cyl. engine it begs the question do you really need any more for a roadster??

Built on a Friday

Performance: 5 Comfort: 3 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 3 Reliability: 3 Comfort Rating: 3 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 3

My Z3 was in the shop about 20 some odd times. The problems ranged from leaking softtop, blown thermostat, busted sending unit, and so on. Fun to drive, and I love the look of the car!

Best Little Sports car on the used marke

Performance: 3 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 3 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

Great car! bulletproof!! Only lacks usable cup holders.

The best roadster par none

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Bought a 1998 BMW Z3 Roadster with the 2.8 six and automatic transmission. Flawless built quality, strong flexible engine, unmatched reliabilty (My Porsche has been back to the dealership three times for "repairs" since I've owned the BMW. The only problem with this car is I cant get it away from my wife!

Thats what I'm talking about

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Wow, what a car. Great power from a car that size and it handles like it is on rails. Fun factor thru the roof

'98 BMW Z3

Performance: 4 Comfort: 4 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 4 Performance Rating: 4 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

This little car is the most fun imaginable! While it is no race car, it corners like a champ and literally scoots down the highway.

'98 Z3

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Fun to drive. Always dependable.

As close to perfection as you can get

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

Of course the M roadster is perfection but the 2.8 L Z3 is as close as you can get. My heart wanted the M roadster but common sense prevailed. With the stiffer suspension in the M Rodster and the thought of replacing tires at least once a year I opted for the 2.8 L Z3. This car is my daily driver in Washinton D.C. and I love it. Maneuvering in traffic becomes a joy in this car. Its quickness and nimbleness is unparralled. Perfect blend of power and comfort!!!!!!!

The Ultimate Driving Machine

Performance: 5 Comfort: 2 Fuel Economy: 4 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 3 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 4 Comfort Rating: 2 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 3 Reliability Rating: 4

I had this car for 6 months and I am very happy. It turns heads and is truly fun to drive with the top down. Engine is willing and car is quick, once on the freeway, more torque is needed for the 2.8.

Ziss car iz Wunderbar!

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

It took me 2 months to find just the right car, a 98 Black on Black with a remov hardtop & Auto (i know, i know... I did say it was for my wife didn't I? Besides, it has a decent manual shift option) I buy and sell up to 100 cars per month so cars are pretty much a commodity to me. But, this car gets ME excited! Stylish, powerful, agile, and shhhh even affordable, don't tell everyone or the cachet will be lost. 2 mos after handing her the keys, and my wife is still grinning.

BMW Z3 2.8 (6 cyclinder)

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 5 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 5 Reliability Rating: 5

This car is a dream come true. I grew up with friends who drove used MG's, Triumph's,Sprite's,and even one 1960 Austin-Healy 3000.I wanted a sports car that didn't need so much attention. I bought a 1998 2.8 Z3 last year. It is the most incredible car I have ever driven.It has more power than I will ever need, and is incredibly agile. And even though there are some "roadster type" cars on the market with more powerful engines, none are anywhere near as beautiful and stylish as the Z3.The Z3 is The Roadster Defined.It's as if those others are just poor imitations.Bottom line,it is so much fun to drive, that I even enjoy driving to work, and I work at the Post Office.

After three years it still turns heads!

Performance: 5 Comfort: 5 Fuel Economy: 5 Fun To Drive: 5 Interior Design: 4 Exterior Design: 5 Build Quality: 5 Reliability: 5 Comfort Rating: 5 Performance Rating: 5 Interior Rating: 4 Reliability Rating: 5

A great car to show off in - performance or styling. I have the 17 in. wheels with Michelin Pilot Sport tires. It takes 25 mph curves at 55 with no loss of traction. 0 to 60 in 5.1 sec. with the 2.8 liter engine (don't get the 1.9L). Really now, is there a better looking convertible for sale today???