2000 BMW Z3 Review
2000 BMW Z3 Review
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Used Z3 for sale
Appraise This CarBMW Z3 types
- Convertible
- Hatchback
See Edmunds pricing data
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Edmunds' Expert Review
by the Edmunds Experts
Pros
- Superb road manners, sexy shape, lots of standard high-tech goodies, brand cachet.
Cons
- Some cheap interior bits, roadsters have a plastic rear window, significantly less expensive two-seaters are out there.
What’s new
Dynamic Stability Control is now standard on all Z3s. The cars also receive freshened exterior and interior styling and appointments.
Edmunds says
Many are attracted to Z3s because of their undeniable sex appeal, brand cache and attainable price. But really, everybody who loves to drive loves the Z3.
Cost to DriveCost to drive estimates for the 2000 BMW Z3 2.3 2dr Convertible and comparison vehicles are based on 15,000 miles per year (with a mix of 55% city and 45% highway driving) and energy estimates of $3.50 per gallon for regular unleaded in Ohio.
Monthly estimates based on costs in Ohio
$212/mo for Z3 2.3
Z3 2.3
vs
$179/mo
Avg. Compact Car
Vehicle overview
The Z3, introduced in 1996, has seen unfaltering popularity with young and old alike even as the line has grown to include more models. It seems that wherever we take these cars, a crowd quickly forms to ask questions about performance and to drool over their lovely shapes.
The Z3 lineup consists of three sportsters: the Z3 Roadster 2.3, Z3 Coupe 2.8 and Z3 Roadster 2.8. The Z3 Roadster 2.3 has a 2.5-liter, six-cylinder engine that makes 170 horsepower while meeting Low Emission Vehicle (LEV) standards. Z3s outfitted with larger, 2.8-liter, 193-horsepower, six-cylinder engines are available as coupes or roadsters. These cars also meet LEV standards.
For 2000, Z3 Roadsters receive new L-shaped taillights with clear turn signal lenses, fully lined tops, re-sculpted rear flanks, and a redesigned center console. New colors inside and out spruce up the Z3, as do new alloy-wheel designs. The sound system is actually audible at speed this year, thanks to the addition of two subwoofers. Analog clocks replace digital versions in both the 2.3 and 2.8 models. The 2.3 gets standard four-wheel disc brakes, a limited-slip differential and 16-inch V-rated performance tires. The 2.8 has new chrome grille slats. All Z3s have a new leather-wrapped M-Technic sport steering wheel and standard Dynamic Stability Control, which senses when the car is veering from its intended path and selectively modulates engine torque and the antilock brakes to bring the car under control. Additional changes to the coupe are limited to a new wheel design, which doesn't help it look any less like a high-topped sneaker.
Driving BMW's Z3 cars is a phenomenal experience. Even the most basic Z3 2.3 Roadster, with its powerful inline six and newly ventilated front-disc brakes, is a blast. Only at high speeds does the 2.3 feel winded, but opting for the larger displacement 2.8-liter six in the 2.8 Roadster solves that problem. And for those who must have a rigid structure and protection from the elements, the 2.8 Coupe is a hoot. With superb steering and excellent brakes, any Z3 is fun to drive and own. Despite their prowess, however, pure performance freaks will want to step up to the M Coupe and M Roadster, which offer more power and better handling.
Slotted comfortably between the bargain Mazda Miata and more expensive machines from Mercedes-Benz and Porsche, there is a Z3 to suit anybody's needs. The thrill of open-air motoring in a European two-seater is appealing to any baby boomer who owned a sporty little convertible while in college. The solid coupe, however, makes more sense for Snowbelt dwellers who like a bit of "funk" with their "sport." Thirty-somethings are attracted to Z3s because of their undeniable sex appeal and attainable price. But let's face it: Everybody who loves to drive loves the Z3.
Consumer reviews
Read what other owners think about the Used 2000 BMW Z3.
5 star(78%)
4 star(18%)
3 star(4%)
2 star(0%)
1 star(0%)
49 reviews
Trending topics in reviews
Most helpful consumer reviews
4.75 out of 5 stars
Best car I have ever owned
Darrel Dore, 02/01/2009
2000 BMW Z3 2.8 2dr Convertible
In my driving life I have owned a Karmann Ghia, Triumph Spitfire, Miata & Porsche 911T, just to name the top ones. Before buying this 7yr old Z3 with only 29k miles by the prior 2 owners, I loved the Porsche the best. Now after driving the Z3 from SC to NM, then up to Portland, down the curvy coast hwy (it really loves curves!) to San Francisco and finally back to SC, I am completely … pleased with the handling, comfort, performance (133 mph in the desert!) and reliability. For the maintenance, you really need to find an independent BMW mechanic to keep the oil change costs down (the dealers are a little expensive). Replace the radiator before 100k, the plastic tanks split!
4.75 out of 5 stars
Update of 2002 Review
GaryA, 06/17/2010
2000 BMW Z3 2.3 2dr Convertible
I wrote an earlier review of the Z3 and mistyped V6 when I knew the 2.5 L engine in the 2.3 model is an inline 6. Anyway, have now put on around 80k miles and this car still drives like new. Just as tight, no rattles or body noises. Great car.
5 out of 5 stars
My Roadster
Splitatom59, 03/07/2002
2000 BMW Z3 2.8 2dr Convertible
Only really drive it during nice weather. Excellent acceleration and braking. Some cheap parts in the interior but all cars seem to do that nowadays. Sitting position is comfortable but hard getting in and out for 6-footers +. Fabrication and mechanics on this car are primo as is the BWM customer satisfaction program. Gas milage has been consistently 24 mi+. This a fun car and not … really meant for day-to-day tasks. Enjoy!!
3.75 out of 5 stars
TURNING 10!
Jan Ellen, 10/13/2009
2000 BMW Z3 2.3 2dr Convertible
This was my first BRAND NEW Sports Car. She had only 3 miles on her when I drove it out of the dealership. It will be nearly 10 years together now and soon we will part ways! My only favorite times driving this car was on the weekends with the top down! Only because I had more room in the cock pit! It took about FIVE years and thousands of dollars for me to break in this car and keep out … of the service department. Two AC compressors, CAMS, Radiator and more.
2000 Z3 Highlights
Convertible
2.3
Engine Type | Gas |
---|---|
Combined MPG | 20 MPG |
Cost to Drive | $212/month |
Drivetrain | rear wheel drive |
Safety
IIHS Rating
The Insurance Institute of Highway Safety uses extensive crash tests to determine car safety.
- Small Overlap Front Driver-Side TestNot Tested
- Small Overlap Front Passenger-Side TestNot Tested
- Moderate Overlap Front Test – Original0
- Moderate Overlap Front Test – UpdatedNot Tested
- Side Impact Test – OriginalNot Tested
- Side Impact Test – UpdatedNot Tested
- Roof Strength TestNot Tested
- Rear Crash Protection / Head RestraintNot Tested
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