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Brands/BMW/Z3
BMW Z3
BMW
BMW

Z3

CoupePetrol (Gasoline)19 versionsOwner report
CompareFind my car
325Hp

Power

5.3s

0–100 km/h

250km/h

Top speed

Typical asking price (US)$8,199–$14,125median $12,149 · 48 live listings · 1996–2002

What owners say

Overview

Sentiment is generally positive, with the Z3 appreciated as a fun, stylish, and engaging classic roadster that offers a distinct character compared to its primary rival, the Mazda Miata. Owners frequently cite its attractive design, the enjoyable driving experience of the inline-

Best version

Inline-6 cylinder models (e.g., 2.8L) are strongly preferred over the four-cylinder 1.9L for their superior power, torque, and engine sound. The M Coupe ("Clownshoe") is highlighted by enthusiasts for its unique design and performance, with

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Generation by generation

Owner insights per generation and US complaint/recall records (NHTSA).

Complaints and recalls by model yearSource: NHTSA (US)Show table
YearComplaintsRecallsMost-reported area
2000601air bags
1999393structure
1998521seats
1997492air bags

Complaint counts come from owner reports filed with the US National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Higher-selling years naturally accumulate more complaints.

Recall notices7 on record · Source: NHTSA (US)Show recalls

2000 · exterior lightingcampaign 06E026000

CERTAIN PRO-A MOTORS CORNER LAMPS, TURN SIGNALS, AND HEADLIGHTS SOLD AS REPLACEMENT LAMPS FOR USE ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE. SOME COMBINATION LAMPS THAT ARE NOT EQUIPPED WITH AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS FAIL TO CONFORM TO FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIAT

1999 · exterior lightingcampaign 06E026000

CERTAIN PRO-A MOTORS CORNER LAMPS, TURN SIGNALS, AND HEADLIGHTS SOLD AS REPLACEMENT LAMPS FOR USE ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE. SOME COMBINATION LAMPS THAT ARE NOT EQUIPPED WITH AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS FAIL TO CONFORM TO FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIAT

1999 · power train:driveline:differential unitcampaign 99V272000

VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES. THE REAR AXLE DIFFERENTIAL MAY CONTAIN RING GEAR BOLTS THAT WERE INCORRECTLY TORQUED DURING ASSEMBLY. THE BOLT OR BOLTS COULD LOOSEN LEADING TO NOISE FROM THE DIFFERENTIAL.

1999 · electrical system:12v/24v/48v battery:cablescampaign 98V275000

VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES. THE NUT THAT SECURES THE MAIN POSITIVE CABLE TO THE POSITIVE BATTERY TERMINAL CLAMP WAS NOT TIGHTENED PROPERLY, ALLOWING THE CABLE TO LOOSEN OVER TIME. IF THIS OCCURRED, THE CABLE COULD ULTIMATELY LOOSEN TO THE POINT WHERE ELECTRICAL CONTINUITY COULD BE INTERRUPTED.

1998 · exterior lightingcampaign 06E026000

CERTAIN PRO-A MOTORS CORNER LAMPS, TURN SIGNALS, AND HEADLIGHTS SOLD AS REPLACEMENT LAMPS FOR USE ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE. SOME COMBINATION LAMPS THAT ARE NOT EQUIPPED WITH AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS FAIL TO CONFORM TO FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIAT

1997 · exterior lightingcampaign 06E026000

CERTAIN PRO-A MOTORS CORNER LAMPS, TURN SIGNALS, AND HEADLIGHTS SOLD AS REPLACEMENT LAMPS FOR USE ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE. SOME COMBINATION LAMPS THAT ARE NOT EQUIPPED WITH AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS FAIL TO CONFORM TO FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIAT

1997 · vehicle speed controlcampaign 97V131000

THE CRUISE CONTROL AND THROTTLE CABLES ARE ATTACHED TO THE SAME THROTTLE VALVE ACTUATING LEVER AT THE THROTTLE HOUSING. IT IS POSSIBLE THAT THE PLASTIC BUSHING ON EITHER CABLE COULD BREAK DUE TO ENVIRONMENTAL INFLUENCES COUPLED WITH VIBRATION. IF THE BUSHING BREAKS, THE OUTER CABLE HOUSING CAN SEPARATE FROM THE BUSHI

Specifications

Generation

Version

2.8 (192 Hp)

From 1997-2000

Power192 Hp
Torque280 Nm
0–100 km/h6.8 sec
Top speed231 km/h
DriveRear wheel drive
Transmission5 gears, manual transmission
Engine2.8 L
AspirationNaturally aspirated engine
Cylinders6
Seats2 seats
Fuel typePetrol (Gasoline)
Body typeCoupe

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Quick facts

BrandBMW
Versions catalogued19
Body typesCoupe, Roadster
Owner reportAvailable

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Photo: Wikimedia Commons (CC)

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