Pistonheads spotted: BMW Z3 3.0

[DrWong]

https://www.pistonheads.com/regulars/ph-spottedykywt/bmw-z3-3-0i-spotted/40148

Nice little spotted article on PH on the 3.0. Accurate for the most part, though I thought the SLK comparison was somewhat unfair (just because the Merc is more comfortable doesn't mean the Z3 can't be)

Anyway, I'm surprised by the amount of love and affection for the 3.0 and Z3s more generally in the comments. I'm pretty sure the same article on PH a few years ago would've generated much scorn and derision (hairdresser comments, heavy and wallowy, poor handling, just get an Mx-5 etc)

Many in the comments thread didn't like the Z3 when it first came out but think time has been very kind to it. I would include myself in that. Many just seem to like the refreshing simplicity and retro looks of them in comparison to modern metal. Again, I'd include myself in that

 

[andyglym]

https://www.pistonheads.com/regulars/ph-spottedykywt/bmw-z3-3-0i-spotted/40148

Nice little spotted article on PH on the 3.0. Accurate for the most part, though I thought the SLK comparison was somewhat unfair (just because the Merc is more comfortable doesn't mean the Z3 can't be)

Anyway, I'm surprised by the amount of love and affection for the 3.0 and Z3s more generally in the comments. I'm pretty sure the same article on PH a few years ago would've generated much scorn and derision (hairdresser comments, heavy and wallowy, poor handling, just get an Mx-5 etc)

Many in the comments thread didn't like the Z3 when it first came out but think time has been very kind to it. I would include myself in that. Many just seem to like the refreshing simplicity and retro looks of them in comparison to modern metal. Again, I'd include myself in that

Saw that. My view is that its direct competition of the day, Boxster, SLK and TT all look dated today and and of their time whereas the Z3 has blossomed with age due to it's bang on retro looks when designed. On the FB link somebody had put up its mileage over the years, seems like it was driven in reverse to the tune of 4k miles a few years ago

 

[DrWong]

Saw that. My view is that its direct competition of the day, Boxster, SLK and TT all look dated today and and of their time whereas the Z3 has blossomed with age due to it's bang on retro looks when designed. On the FB link somebody had put up its mileage over the years, seems like it was driven in reverse to the tune of 4k miles a few years ago

This mate. I thought Z3's looked ridiculous when they first came out. But my sensibilities have matured and now I think they're bloody lovely

And yeah, the SLK looks particularly tragic now in comparison to a Z3 (no offence to any owners!)

 

[Mnbrennan]

Nice to see them being recognised!

 

[Bringit96]

I totally disagree with the SLK being more comfortable. Having been in the passenger seat for a few hours on the way to pick up my Z3 for the first time the drive home in the Z was a lot more comfortable. The SLK does look rather tragic which is a shame because it's a decent car