A high point in the convertible market is the BMW Z3. In 1999 BMW rolled out an upgraded version of the Z3 with four versions: Coupe, M Coupe, and M Roadster. Sales for the Z3, especially the Z3 M Roadster, were brisk during 1999 and 2000. The improved reliability and the updated styling were responsible for the increased interest.

1999 BMW Z3 M Roadster Specs

The restyled Z3 M Roadster is equipped with a 3.2-liter six-cylinder engine that utilizes 24 valves. The engine is mated to a ZF five-speed transmission. This has resulted in an increase in horsepower and torque over the 1998 version.

The fuel system for the 1999 Z3 is a Siemens DME MS design, using gasoline fuel. The fuel flow is controlled by a electronic system and is a fuel-injected MFI design. The fuel capacity of the fuel tank is 13.50 gallons.

The Z3 uses power-assisted brakes, with 4-Wheel ABS support. The front brakes are disc while the rear brakes are disc. Steering is handled through a power-steering rack-style configuration. The car uses coil and coil springs front and rear respectively.

Statistics

The dimensions of the Z3 M Roadster are 68.50 inches wide by 158.50 inches long. It sits 50.90 inches off the ground. It seats a standard two passengers, with 2 doors. The wheelbase of 96.30 allows for extra leg room for the rear passengers.

The listed retail price in 1999 (MSRP) was $36,200, with a dealer invoice cost of $31,895. This price is in line with the industry average price for a two-door Convertible.

The standard warranty period for the Z3 is 48 months, or 50,000 miles, whichever comes first. This is standard in the convertible market.

Fuel Efficiency

The Z3 M Roadster received a miles-per-gallon rating of nineteen in-city driving and twenty six when it came to highway driving. Being a gas-powered non-hybrid car, this was within normal parameters.

What We Think of the BMW Z3

The 1999 model year was very successful for the BMW Z3. The introduction of several trim levels (along with the M Roadster version) meant that buyers could find the version that best suited their needs.

Tags: 2-Door, BMW Z3, Convertible, M Roadster, United States market

This entry was posted on Sunday, April 5th, 2009 at 1:00 am and is filed under 1999, BMW, Z3. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.