1998 BMW Z3 Consumer Reviews

I love it, but.....

Written by: Kimberley on 07/17/2005

Vehicle

1998 BMW Z3 2 Dr 1.9 Convertible

Review

I bought this car, because of it's looks and the price was fantastic!!! I love this car but, let me prequalify, my issues should be more with the previous owner than the manufacturer. The side window gaskets leak something terrible! So much so that the driver's side floor board is soft and spongy. The person that had changed their oil had left the small oil filter gasket in the filter housing on several occasions which resulted in the rings wearing out with time and crumbling into small bits all through the system and developing in a nasty oil leak and cost over $600.00 to fix. The hoses pop off for no apparent reason but, these do not detract from this beautiful car, in my opinion.

Favorite Features

The beautiful exterior of this car. It's a BMW.

Suggested Improvements

Better window gaskets, replace plastic back window with glass. The cup holders are useless with their size and location. Plastic head light lenses yellow and dull with time. Doors tend to stick quite often. Window motors need to be replaced in time, could be from water because, of the leaking gasket

2 out 6 people found this review helpful

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My M roadster

Written by: Kevin on 06/14/2005

Vehicle

1998 BMW Z3 2 Dr 2.8 Convertible

Review

This car is awesome! I purchased the M Roadster version of the Z3 which includes more horsepower(240hp) with a slightly larger 6 cyl. engine and a sportier suspension. The car drives and handles amazingly as if you are glued to the road. The performance is excellent with one flaw being the fast reving when your hard on the gas.the gas milage is decent when your not hard on the driving. The only problem I have had is the amount of room in the cockpit area. Movement is limited but that's what you expect with a 2 seat roadster. The two-tone black and blue leather interior is beautiful and goes very well with the silver paint. If you're looking for a Z3 but want a little more, check out the M!

Favorite Features

Performance! the perfect handling, the sporty feel of the shifting and the beautiful and well finished interior.

Suggested Improvements

Larger cockpit, more trunk and storage room

2 out 3 people found this review helpful

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What driving should profess to be...

Written by: Marc on 02/24/2005

Vehicle

1998 BMW Z3 2 Dr 2.8 Convertible

Review

Overall I would rate this car a definite buy with a few caveats. First, take a close look on all the repair work done on this vehicle. As most 1998 Beamers will have over 100,000 miles, I would be aware of what has been done and what is needed to ensure no surprises and fun in the sun. Make sure all 30,000 mileage inspections aII have been performed along with upkeep with the interior and tires. In addition, I would check all BMW's part recall information such as the thermostat replacement. My experience with the Z3 for the last 4+ years has been great. The car has a great engine and I feel the handling is decent. If you do your homework, you'll be very happy...

Favorite Features

2.8 liter engine moves.... simplicity of dash.... pure sports car...

Suggested Improvements

too much plastic in the interior glove box issues... plastic rear window...

5 out 5 people found this review helpful

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Too Much Fun

Written by: Diana on 12/05/2004

Vehicle

1998 BMW Z3 2 Dr 1.9 Convertible

Review

I am having a ball in this car. I've driven it roundtrip between Key West & Rochester, NY. Extremely comfortable for 14 hour days on the road. I just picked up my Christmas tree in it last weekend (top down, of course!) I want to tour the West and see the stars at night! Can't wait to go. If you want to be treated like a celebrity, drive this car!

Favorite Features

Style, style, style. Heated leather seats. Comfortable, supportive seats. Pedestrians insist on giving ME the right-of-way.

Suggested Improvements

If it only came with Bond, James Bond...

7 out 7 people found this review helpful

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Ice Cream Runner Z3

Written by: VFRAV8R on 07/04/2004

Vehicle

1998 BMW Z3 2 Dr 1.9 Convertible

Review

My wife had to have it. We imediately replaced the loose seats with aftermarket and it's been a joy. Tops are easily fixed or replace and it's a looker. Inexpensive fun and 30 mpg. Exactly what we wanted. Pleasant ride. Manual tops seem to work better with these models. Give one a try.

Favorite Features

The transmission is a dream and a light clutch.(try a Boxster's)

Suggested Improvements

Of course more bass out of the radio and seat rails that don't cost a fortune.

3 out 3 people found this review helpful

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Fun car to drive

Written by: Thebitz on 06/30/2004

Vehicle

1998 BMW Z3 2 Dr 2.8 Convertible

Review

I just bought this car in 10/03 and I absolutely love it! For a 98, it looks and handles great! I test drove it on the west side of Cincy on curvy SR roads and it was an instant sale. The only problem I had was replacing several seals on my convertible top/front windshield, but I guess that should be expected with a 6 yr old convertible. I had to drop $2000 the first month I owned it and now another $500 for a carb sensor, fan or something. I knew the maintenance would be expensive, but that hurt a little. Even with these costs, I still love the car (as long as another $2K bill doesn't come up within a yr)

Favorite Features

#1 Handling and speed!

Suggested Improvements

It feels like the low end gears don't have much pickup. I would think a straight 6 could produce a little more HP/tourque with the 1st gear.

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1998 Z3 2.8 Roadster

Written by: fpfarr on 06/21/2004

Vehicle

1998 BMW Z3 2 Dr 2.8 Convertible

Review

Best car I ever owned (until I bought my 2001 740iL). Still turns heads today even though it's seven years old. If you have the 17 in. wheels, avoid driving in winter --traction is nil. The 17 in. wheels differentiate the car from others. Engine, drivetrain, fit and finish have been outstanding. Poor air conditioner and stereo --those are the most disappointing features. The absolute exhilarating driving experience makes any flaws minor in comparison. I am extrememly happy with my decision and would buy this car again.

Favorite Features

Powerful engine, handling, looks that turn heads.

Suggested Improvements

Air conditioner and stereo

2 out 2 people found this review helpful

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Car Review

Written by: Ben Franklin on 05/21/2004

Vehicle

1998 BMW Z3 2 Dr 2.8 Convertible

Review

This car is awesome

Favorite Features

Suggested Improvements

1 out 3 people found this review helpful

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BMW 1998 1.9 L Z3

Written by: John R. Sullivan on 04/15/2004

Vehicle

1998 BMW Z3 2 Dr 1.9 Convertible

Review

This has been an amazing vehicle. I have never had any drive train problems and in fact it runs as well today as when I bought it 6 years ago brand new. I feel the styling of this car is best of any roadster on the road! As small as this car is the ride is amazingly comfortable; the footprint is wide and the car is heavy. It handles like it is on rails!

Favorite Features

The styling and realiability. It looks cool and runs great!

Suggested Improvements

The palastic back window should be glass, but the top is down as often as possible anyway!

2 out 2 people found this review helpful

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Reliable

Written by: sparrowhawk on 04/05/2004

Vehicle

1998 BMW Z3 2 Dr 2.8 Convertible

Review

Not a commuting car, a fun car!

Favorite Features

Overall performance.

Suggested Improvements

More comfortable seats.

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