2001 BMW Z3 Roadster

Description

Few things are better than a 2-seat roadster with a smooth six-cylinder powerplant up front. The British probably invented the things, but cars like this 2001 BMW Z3 are the modern embodiment of the "less is more" philosophy that makes 2-seat sports cars so special. With two owners, a rare color combination, and classic good looks, just imagine next summer with this in your garage.

The color is Atlantis Metallic, a color usually reserved for the exclusive 7-Series, but it was specially ordered on this Z3 and looks particularly striking on the swoopy 2-seater bodywork. With just over 70,000 original miles, it remains in excellent shape, thanks to a combination of quality BMW workmanship and careful ownership over the past 15 years. The shark-like Z3 still looks great, the kind of car that makes people stop and watch as it drives past, and with BMW's legendary build quality, it hasn't lost a step over the years. Gaps are tight, the aggressive front fascia is in great shape with a few touch-ups, and the gills on the front fenders add an old-school touch. In back, the third brake light is neatly integrated into the trunk lid and you'll find that there's a minimum of add-ons, just a pure, clean shape. If you want a good-looking sports car that isn't the same-old, same-old, this BMW delivers.

Those of you who have driven BMWs already know that the interior is singularly focused on the driver, an environment that works with you to seamlessly blend man and machine. The black leather seats are in outstanding condition and still gently but firmly hold you in place. Black carpets are plush enough to whisper luxury, but lightweight so they don't slow the car down. Woodgrained appliques on the center console warm things up a bit and the big, round gauges with chrome rings were obviously influenced by great sports cars of the past. Everything was standard in the Z3, including A/C, power windows, seats, and locks, a tilt steering wheel, and cruise control, all of which are joined by a modern AM/FM/CD/iPod stereo that's been more recently installed. Everything works, which shouldn't be a surprise and it looks fresh, not dated the way a lot of "retro" styled cars seem to get. There's a black canvas top that fits well enough to make this car "car wash safe" and the trunk is big enough for a few overnight bags.

BMW's legendary 2.5 liter inline-six lives under the long hood, and yes, it's as smooth and torquey as you've heard. In the lightweight Z3, it's positively robust, flinging the lightweight car down the road with ease. It never grumbles or stumbles, it's always impeccably smooth, and you'll relish running it through the gears every chance you get, just for the joy of the machine doing its work. The 5-speed manual slips through the gears with just a gentle tug on the knob and the all-independent suspension manages to be both competent and supple at the same time. The dual exhaust system gives the six a wonderful tenor voice and a lifetime in a warm climate shows in the clean undercarriage. Big 17-inch alloy wheels and recent Kumho radials give it just the right profile and an upscale image.

This is first-class BMW performance and luxury at a third-class price. Where else can you get this much class and performance for so little cash? Call today!