Fancy a Z3

[RickyBobby]

So as my Zed journey continues I find myself really fancying a Z3.
Having owned a Z4MC which I sold cos it was mental and tried to kill me on numerous occasions (to be honest I just didn't have the skills to do it justice) I now own to E85's. A 2004 3.0i automatic and a 2006 2.5i and I really find myself enjoying the roadster experience.
So my question is this - if it's not all about speed and I'm not looking for a look at me garage queen which of the Z3 line up should I be focusing on.
Currently I'm thinking about a 2000 model 2.0 or 2.2 but really keen to get a more informed view from so. Eone who knows these cars better than me. Thanks All.

 

[andyglym]

Don't dismiss the 1.9 M44, only 10 BHP less than the 2.0 Six Pot. The M44 Massive all seem most happy with their Zeds.

 

[the Nefyn cat]

Nothing quite like the scream of a six, though. Not that I would, of course.

I've had a 2.2 for over seven years now, still love it, any Z3 you get will have issues, unless they've already been dealt with.

 

[Geophys]

I've had a 1.9, a 2.8 and currently a 2001 2.2, my favourite by far is the 2.2, it seems to do every thing I want in a 'British' sports car. 170bhp is plenty for a car of this weight and it handles really well for the way I drive it, (I didn't steal it so don't drive it as if I did!)

 

[Jasn]

I have a 2000 2.0 and it's great for cruising around in, but we live on a Mountain and we tend not to take it off the Mountain — it can climb back up OK, but it would be more enjoyable with a bit (not necessarily a lot) more power. I'd go the 2.2 if you're considering those two. Having said that, if it's just for cruising, I think a lot of other aspects of the car influence how much you'll enjoy it. I wouldn't trade ours for a bigger engine if it meant giving up the extended leather, chrome package, nice (IMO) wheels, coloured roof, wood grain and so on.

 

[mrscalex]

I've got a 3.0 and 2.2. If you don't want the power or comparative rarity value of a 3.0 then I think the 2.2s are fantastic all-rounders.

My brother has a 1.9 and loves it but for me no comparison to the smoothness and sound of the 6-cylinder. 2.0s & 2.8s for me personally don't float my boat when there is a 2.2 or 3.0 to chose from. Others will feel differently of course.

 

[colb]

I have a 1999 M43 1.9 badged as a 1.8 and a 2003 2.5 Z4, power wise the Z4 has ample but for me the Z3 has the better looks and is fast enough when speed is needed. If I have to loose one of them it will be the Z4 that gets sold, just love my Z3.

 

[BMBabe]

@Braz86 is selling a 2 0

 

[RickyBobby]

Don't dismiss the 1.9 M44, only 10 BHP less than the 2.0 Six Pot. The M44 Massive all seem most happy with their Zeds.

Followed your advice and messaged another member regarding their add which looks like the ideal intro car Z3 1.9 Manual - 148k - £750

 

[Nodzed]

Straight 6 2.2 is about the best all rounder IMHO. Nice sound from the engine and just enough power, but not silly.

 

[Christ87]

I have a 2.0 straight six and have always wanted to try the 1.9 because honestly I think I'd prefer the lighter engine.

 

[Mint]

I have a 2.2 and a 3.0 Z3. If I had to choose I'd go for the 2.2 as it's more fun driving using the gears

 

[Mario]

I have had a few different ones of all of them the 2.2 made the best sounds by far even with stock exhaust.

 

[abh29]

I have only ever driven the 2.2 , and have no urge to change her. I just dont go along with this modern theme of reducing the number of cylinders. I dropped down to 6 pot BMW,s from V8 Range Rovers . OH's car is a 20i X1 with 4 cylinders but even that is now available with 3 cylinders.

 

[137699]

Surely the ONLY choice is the 3.2 straight 6 which is the Z3-M!

 

[RickyBobby]

Surely the ONLY choice is the 3.2 straight 6 which is the Z3-M!

Been there done that with the S54 in a Z4MC - absolutely mental and way to much car for me on the UK road network.
Guess I just didn't have the skills - was pleased to get out alive after my 2 year ownership with only a speed awareness course and couple of damaged alloys to show for it