Considering a 1997 BMW Z3 1.9 - Need Advice

[Waltzy]

Hello everyone,
I’m considering purchasing a 1997 BMW Z3 1.9, which I can get for 3500 euros (approximately 3,779.30 dollars). Currently, I own a VW Polo Cross that has started to rust significantly, and in my country I will get around 4k for it. As I don’t have a family, I’m thinking of switching to a roadster.
However, I’ve heard that BMWs can be problematic and I’m struggling to find information specifically about the reliability of the 1997 BMW Z3’s engine. I’m hoping to get some advice on whether this car is worth buying and if it’s likely to become a money sink.
Here are my specific questions:

1. Is the engine of the 1997 BMW Z3 1.9 reliable? Does it require frequent repairs?
2. Is the 1997 BMW Z3 1.9 as a whole a reliable car?
3. Is owning and driving this car addictive like coke?

I appreciate any insights or experiences you can share. Thanks in advance!

 

[Ianmc]

Assuming it is a M44 (140 bhp, twin cam) engine, they are excellent. Only water pump and rocker gasket have needed replacement on mine in 50K miles; of course in addition to regular oil and filter changes and plugs every few years. Total mileage now just under 130K and runs real well.

 

[Zephyr]

Hello @Waltzy

The specific car you are showing is an 85kw 115/118hp 1.8 litre car.
I am pretty sure it has a light brown interior and matching steering wheel and there is no service history.
For the specific one, I would firstly start with a vin history check and then proceed depending on what you will find (IMHO you will find some issues with it, probably imported to Lithuania after an accident in Germany) and the money and time you are willing to spend.

Appart from rust issues (and be reminded that the side sills may cover a lot of rust on the body), you will have to check that the engine was properly maintained as 230.000 km on this engine are quite a lot, even with proper maintenance.

Generally, these engines last for a long time, but the ICV and PCV valves have to be changed, also the hoses (coolant and air) and plastic connectors in the engine compartment are usually brittle and tend to perish without a warning (meaning you can have a sudden coolant explosion and destroy the engine).

Is the roof solid and has no leaks?
Does the boot compartment smell bad? (is it dry?) take the car to a gas station and jet wash it - look for water inside the cabin and the trunk.

and to directly answer your questions

1. Is the engine of the 1997 BMW Z3 1.9 reliable? Does it require frequent repairs?
   1. Generally this engine is, a good preventative maintenance (ICV/PCV/Coolant Hoses/goog motor oil) will make it go for another 100k
2. Is the 1997 BMW Z3 1.9 as a whole a reliable car?
   1. Yes if properly maintained (but in this case you posted, probably not)
3. Is owning and driving this car addictive like coke?
   1. The 1.8 engine is somewhat like a good puff of grass. You will be lightheaded and have fun and that's it. The 3.0 is like coke and the S52/54 is like a coctail of coke/amphetamines/viagra and a bottle of Red Bull.

 

[Zephyr]

You're very welcome.

 

[Kamil]

Hello Waltzy, you can go for z3 as a reliable car. I own one but there are things you will have to check beforehand if you want to keep it for some time.
- Inside the cabin cheek for damp, mould odour; if the roof leaks, doors or A pillars the water will accumulate under the carpet. The carpet will be dry on the top but beneath it there is a thick foam, that can be soaking wet. To check it under the seats there is a cut on the carpet, slide fingers in and inspect it.
- Check boot (trunk) under carpet, where tool box is attached, that place can be rusty if water leaks through rear window or antenna gasket.
- Inspect the condition of the top fabrics (That is quite expensive to replace)
- Side skirts can be rusty (common issue)
- Most likely you will have to replace some of the rubber hoses and gaskets under the bonnet
- Don't worry about moving seats (another common issue, easy and cheap to fix)
- Look inside the antifreeze tank for signs of oil.

In general it's a fun, small, reliable car as long it's maintained well.