The BMW Z3 was one of the first cars produced by the good folks in Spartanburg, South Carolina, at BMW’s new plant. On its first year made available to the general public, the Z3 had one package: a base-model convertible powered by a 1.9-liter inline-4 producing 138 hp. Standard features included an AM/FM/cassette player and cruise control. While a new five-speed manual transmission was standard, those wanting the smooth riding experience would upgrade to the four speed automatic. Just in case you got stuck, there was traction control, which you could enjoy from your plushy leather seats. Following up to the next year, the Z3 really gained its praise, due in part to the addition of another trim, the 2.8. As the name says so, this trim package was powered by a 2.8-liter inline-6 – the same lauded 190-hp six-cylinder putting the ponies behind the 3 Series models of the era. For those wanting a little bit of luxury, the Z3 then came with a CD changer and heated seats.Putting the top down in a Z3, you will need a BMW Z3 windscreen / windblocker / wind deflector.
With the 1998 model, this BMW became more readily adaptable to inclement weather, thanks to the introduction of an optional power convertible top. In 1999, the Z3 coupe came out. Equipped with the 2.8-liter engine only, with its odd hatchback looks did make the body stiffer and more versatile, but the odd tail drew snickers and finger pointing from those who thought it ruined the lines of the stylish Z3. That year, the 1.9-liter four-cylinder bowed out in favor of a new 170-hp inline-6. In spite of the 2.5-liter displacement, this car was given the odd name of a Z3 2.3 for both 1999 and 2000. A Harman Kardon delivered the symphonic sounds, and a hardtop was added to the list of option. The overall saftey of the car was enhanced thanks to the mandatory side airbags. When you let in the sun the top down in a Z3, you will need a BMW Z3 windscreen / windblocker / wind deflector.
Minor exterior and interior refreshes were in store for the BMW Z3 coupe and convertible in 2000, and stability control joined the standard features list. Starting in 2001, the 2.8 trim package, available in both the coupe and convertible, became the 3.0i, with the introduction of a 3.0-liter engine putting out 225 hp along with 214 pound-feet of torque. The logically enhanced 2.5i saw a power increase of 14 horses. Also, the Z3’s optional four-speed automatic transmission was replaced with a five-speed automatic with manual shifting capability. For 2002, in its last year of production, the Z3 finally made the CD player standard equipment.
Tags: BMW Z3, BMW Z3 Wind Deflector, BMW Z3 Windblocker, BMW Z3 Windstop, BMW Z43 Windscreen