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Used 1998 BMW Z3 Consumer Reviews

4.8 out of 5 stars
36 reviews

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Pros
Cons
5 out of 5 stars

BMW Z3 2.8 (6 cyclinder)

andre, 04/28/2002
1998 BMW Z3 2.8 2dr Convertible
21 of 21 people found this review helpful

This car is a dream come true. I grew up with friends who drove used MG's, Triumph's,Sprite's,and even one 1960 Austin-Healy 3000.I wanted a sports car that didn't need so much attention. I bought a 1998 2.8 Z3 last year. It is the most incredible car I have ever driven.It has more power than I will ever need, and is incredibly agile. And even though there are some "roadster type" cars on the market with more powerful engines, none are anywhere near as beautiful and stylish as the Z3.The Z3 is The Roadster Defined.It's as if those others are just poor imitations.Bottom line,it is so much fun to drive, that I even enjoy driving to work, and I work at the Post Office.

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4.5 out of 5 stars

What A Ride!!!

T Mc, 10/25/2009
1998 BMW Z3 2.8 2dr Convertible
33 of 34 people found this review helpful

Bought this used about five years ago. No... REPEAT NO mechanic issues to date. Enjoyable drive, sharp look. In short, I'd buy this car over and over again.

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4.63 out of 5 stars

Love this car

Jerry, 03/13/2008
1998 BMW Z3 2.8 2dr Convertible
16 of 16 people found this review helpful

This is a keeper. It is fun to drive, has classic looks and seems to work most of the time. I have had to have a seatbelt replaced, replaced one sensor, and had recurrent problems with an annoying buzz in the bass speaker and have problems with one of the electric seat motors. The sound system is weak for a car this nice and the plastic window in the rag top is pretty cheap also. But overall it is a well built fun car. If you find one in good shape buy it and keep it.

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5 out of 5 stars

As close to perfection as you can get

woodytpt, 09/09/2002
1998 BMW Z3 2.8 2dr Convertible
13 of 13 people found this review helpful

Of course the M roadster is perfection but the 2.8 L Z3 is as close as you can get. My heart wanted the M roadster but common sense prevailed. With the stiffer suspension in the M Rodster and the thought of replacing tires at least once a year I opted for the 2.8 L Z3. This car is my daily driver in Washinton D.C. and I love it. Maneuvering in traffic becomes a joy in this car. Its quickness and nimbleness is unparralled. Perfect blend of power and comfort!!!!!!!

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4.75 out of 5 stars

Best car I've ever owned.

Will, 01/01/2006
1998 BMW Z3 1.9 2dr Convertible
12 of 12 people found this review helpful

Fun, fun, fun. I bought this car used with 50,000 miles on it and drove it for two years and never had a problem with it, not one thing broke. The only thing I did was do oil changes and put gas. I would have still it if the car wasn't manual transmission and I didn't live in Miami (traffic is horrible here). Clearly the Z3 is one of BMW's best built cars.

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4.88 out of 5 stars

First Sports Car

Forest Green, 05/05/2007
1998 BMW Z3 1.9 2dr Convertible
17 of 18 people found this review helpful

I had always wanted to own a Corvette, but when I reached the point where I had the cash to buy a sports car I opted for a BMW. My decision was driven by BMW's reputation for quality engineering and workmanship. Having owned a couple of BMW motorcycles and having ridden them from coast to coast and border to border more than once, I figured that a Z3 had to be a rugged machine if it was built like the motorcycles that roll out of the BMW factory. Driving a Z3 is just as much fun as riding a motorcycle and you get a lot more respect. BMW did a fantastic job of sculpting the sheet metal -- the car does attract attention where ever you drive it. I'll take my Z3 over a 'Vette any day.

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5 out of 5 stars

The day I bought my Z3

Pete Hadler, 05/03/2017
updated 05/10/2018
1998 BMW Z3 1.9 2dr Convertible
10 of 10 people found this review helpful

I bought it in 1998. If I had a choice I would without a doubt do it again!!! when I pulled in our drive, my neighbors ran over and ask if I had won the Lottery! I did not tell them That the total price out the door from the dealership tax etc etc was $30,040.00. l loved the car then and I still do. I am am 81 years old and my Z3 is 19 years old. Pete Hadler Requested Update - I took the Z3 out two days ago on May 7. We had two feet of snow with ten foot drifts several weeks ago! We live in Northern Wisconsin ten miles from the U.P. This was the latest that I every took my first drive of the Spring!! It is so much fun to drive a great handling automobile!! I enjoy driving the Z3 as much as I did twenty years ago! It is a great automobile. It's color is Atlantic Blue and is the same as The James Bond Car in the movie in 1998.

Safety
5 out of 5 stars
Technology
5 out of 5 stars
Performance
5 out of 5 stars
Interior
4 out of 5 stars
Comfort
3 out of 5 stars
Reliability
5 out of 5 stars
Value
5 out of 5 stars
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4.25 out of 5 stars

Hot stuff

les benson, 07/10/2008
1998 BMW Z3 2.8 2dr Convertible
6 of 6 people found this review helpful

This is a jazzy car. It looks more like a cartoon car from Roger Rabbit, than a street vehicle. Lows, fuel economy, tired back window. Highs, ride, look, reliability.

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4.88 out of 5 stars

Too Much Fun

Diana, 12/06/2004
1998 BMW Z3 1.9 2dr Convertible
6 of 6 people found this review helpful

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!

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4.13 out of 5 stars

What driving should profess to be...

Marc, 02/24/2005
1998 BMW Z3 2.8 2dr Convertible
6 of 6 people found this review helpful

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...

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5 out of 5 stars

'98 Z3

CKC, 04/20/2003
1998 BMW Z3 1.9 2dr Convertible
6 of 6 people found this review helpful

Fun to drive. Always dependable.

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5 out of 5 stars

Thats what I'm talking about

dookie, 06/05/2003
1998 BMW Z3 2.8 2dr Convertible
6 of 6 people found this review helpful

Wow, what a car. Great power from a car that size and it handles like it is on rails. Fun factor thru the roof

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4.38 out of 5 stars

Best Little Sports car on the used marke

BeaterBMW, 09/28/2003
1998 BMW Z3 1.9 2dr Convertible
5 of 5 people found this review helpful

Great car! bulletproof!! Only lacks usable cup holders.

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4.88 out of 5 stars

The Ulitmate Driving Machine-Ask 007

BM'er, 03/22/2004
1998 BMW Z3 1.9 2dr Convertible
5 of 5 people found this review helpful

Have the 1.9 4 cyl. engine and has plenty of power and oomph. Not as fast as the 2.3 6 cyl. or the Audi TT however this car is a "touring car" first and not a sports car. Its looks and handling make it a blast to drive and quite an eye catcher. All in all a great value. Top speed I am told is around 130 mph however vehicle is electronically limited to 115 mph. So although some have complained about the 4 cyl. engine it begs the question do you really need any more for a roadster??

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4.88 out of 5 stars

BMW 1998 1.9 L Z3

John R. Sullivan, 04/15/2004
1998 BMW Z3 1.9 2dr Convertible
5 of 5 people found this review helpful

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!

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4.13 out of 5 stars

Ice Cream Runner Z3

VFRAV8R, 07/04/2004
1998 BMW Z3 1.9 2dr Convertible
5 of 5 people found this review helpful

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.

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5 out of 5 stars

Z3

T Day, 01/04/2007
1998 BMW Z3 2.8 2dr Convertible
5 of 5 people found this review helpful

I purchased my Z new in 1998 strictly as a toy. It is driven no more than 1000 to 15001 miles per year. I absolutely love how it performs on the back roads. We take it on weekend getaways during the summer and fall looking for challenging roads to use it to its full potential. It is a blast to drive and people who see it always have plenty of comments on how great she looks. Bring the original back!!

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4.63 out of 5 stars

'98 BMW Z3

AnnieZ, 05/11/2003
1998 BMW Z3 1.9 2dr Convertible
5 of 5 people found this review helpful

This little car is the most fun imaginable! While it is no race car, it corners like a champ and literally scoots down the highway.

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5 out of 5 stars

Great little sports car

Gilbert Grape, 04/22/2018
1998 BMW Z3 1.9 2dr Convertible
5 of 5 people found this review helpful

When you get in this be prepared for a ride like Tom Cruise in Top Gun. Listen to the engine, don't look at the tachometer, and watch your speed. The sound system is okay but not great. In town I don't usually even turn it on unless I'm in 4th gear or 5th gear on the highway. It's a fun car for weekends and road trips but does have limited trunk space.

Safety
5 out of 5 stars
Technology
5 out of 5 stars
Performance
5 out of 5 stars
Interior
5 out of 5 stars
Comfort
5 out of 5 stars
Reliability
5 out of 5 stars
Value
5 out of 5 stars
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4.75 out of 5 stars

Classic Roadster Formula Updated

Teleny, 02/23/2009
1998 BMW Z3 1.9 2dr Convertible
17 of 21 people found this review helpful

When this car first came out I was in grad school and was smitten by the styling. So once I graduated and got a job, I bought one!!! It's an awesome little roadster. It corners flat and with the 1.9 you don't have enough power to really make it loose it's composure. The 1.9 z3 has adequate power with the manual transmission and very good handling. I'd avoid the automatic b/c the engine does not provide enough torque. Having test drove a MR2 spider and a Miata, I prefer the Z3. It's better looking, better value and is extremely comfortable. Oh and my gas mileage has to be around 35mpg. I drove a 2.3 (slight improvement) and a 2.8 (seriously quick), but in the end preferred my 1.9

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5 out of 5 stars

The best roadster par none

John Defiori, 08/04/2003
1998 BMW Z3 2.8 2dr Convertible
4 of 4 people found this review helpful

Bought a 1998 BMW Z3 Roadster with the 2.8 six and automatic transmission. Flawless built quality, strong flexible engine, unmatched reliabilty (My Porsche has been back to the dealership three times for "repairs" since I've owned the BMW. The only problem with this car is I cant get it away from my wife!

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4.75 out of 5 stars

My M roadster

Kevin, 06/14/2005
1998 BMW Z3 2.8 2dr Convertible
4 of 4 people found this review helpful

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!

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5 out of 5 stars

we love this car

John Lanza, 10/05/2018
updated 10/19/2023
1998 BMW Z3 1.9 2dr Convertible
4 of 4 people found this review helpful

My wife and I took our 1998 Z cross country and back racking up about 8500 miles. the ride was awesome the gas mileage was between 30 and 39 mpg and the handling was spectacular! Took it on the Dragon's Tail and had the time of our lives. We love this car and with proper maintenance we look forward to more trips like this for years to come.

Safety
5 out of 5 stars
Technology
5 out of 5 stars
Performance
5 out of 5 stars
Interior
5 out of 5 stars
Comfort
5 out of 5 stars
Reliability
5 out of 5 stars
Value
5 out of 5 stars
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3.75 out of 5 stars

I love it, but.....

Kimberley, 07/18/2005
1998 BMW Z3 1.9 2dr Convertible
5 of 6 people found this review helpful

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.

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4 out of 5 stars

1998 Z3 1.9 Purchased in 2017

E. Morris, 07/06/2017
1998 BMW Z3 1.9 2dr Convertible
5 of 6 people found this review helpful

What a HOOT!!! It's got 160K miles on it. I purchased it as a "toy" and not a daily driver (although I find myself driving it more often than not). I'm 6'3" and about 260 and I have ZERO problems fitting into the car!! Now, I will say that because I'm "long waisted" in that most of my height is from my waist up...with the top up I have to crane my neck to keep from bashing my head on the convertible top...but with the top down? NO problem!! I certainly would recommend one if you find one that's clean. Used prices are MUCH cheaper than Honda S2000's. The performance on the 1.9 is lackluster but it's in essence a motorcycle engine!! Buy you a Bimmer!! The Z3 is fun to drive!! Even with a 5 speed!!!

Performance
4 out of 5 stars
Comfort
4 out of 5 stars
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5 out of 5 stars

Ziss car iz Wunderbar!

Mike-Pt. Townsend WA, 06/02/2002
1998 BMW Z3 2.8 2dr Convertible
2 of 2 people found this review helpful

It took me 2 months to find just the right car, a 98 Black on Black with a remov hardtop & Auto (i know, i know... I did say it was for my wife didn't I? Besides, it has a decent manual shift option) I buy and sell up to 100 cars per month so cars are pretty much a commodity to me. But, this car gets ME excited! Stylish, powerful, agile, and shhhh even affordable, don't tell everyone or the cachet will be lost. 2 mos after handing her the keys, and my wife is still grinning.

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4.63 out of 5 stars

1998 Z3 2.8 Roadster

fpfarr, 06/21/2004
1998 BMW Z3 2.8 2dr Convertible
2 of 2 people found this review helpful

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.

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4.5 out of 5 stars

Fun car to drive

Thebitz, 06/30/2004
1998 BMW Z3 2.8 2dr Convertible
2 of 2 people found this review helpful

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)

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5 out of 5 stars

Best car i've driven so far

LWH, 05/28/2021
1998 BMW Z3 2.8 2dr Convertible
2 of 2 people found this review helpful

Bought a 98 Z3M S52 3.2L M Roadster last year on a brainfart, and this has since been the best handling, most reliable and overall most fun car i've had. Not a daily driver (Volvo XC70 as daily driver for safety and practicability) but every sunny summer days Im eager to take her out. Had 13 BMWs so far and by all means this is the best BMW and besr car i've had. And good investment too as ive heard value is going up. Highly recommended for spirited driving.

Safety
4 out of 5 stars
Technology
5 out of 5 stars
Performance
5 out of 5 stars
Interior
5 out of 5 stars
Comfort
4 out of 5 stars
Reliability
5 out of 5 stars
Value
5 out of 5 stars
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5 out of 5 stars

Car Review

Ben Franklin, 05/21/2004
1998 BMW Z3 2.8 2dr Convertible
3 of 5 people found this review helpful

This car is awesome

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4.25 out of 5 stars

Built on a Friday

Ericz3, 02/27/2004
1998 BMW Z3 1.9 2dr Convertible
1 of 1 people found this review helpful

My Z3 was in the shop about 20 some odd times. The problems ranged from leaking softtop, blown thermostat, busted sending unit, and so on. Fun to drive, and I love the look of the car!

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4.88 out of 5 stars

After three years it still turns heads!

Jan, 03/20/2002
1998 BMW Z3 2.8 2dr Convertible
1 of 1 people found this review helpful

A great car to show off in - performance or styling. I have the 17 in. wheels with Michelin Pilot Sport tires. It takes 25 mph curves at 55 with no loss of traction. 0 to 60 in 5.1 sec. with the 2.8 liter engine (don't get the 1.9L). Really now, is there a better looking convertible for sale today???

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5 out of 5 stars

I never get tired of looking at its sexy rear end

Ben L baldwin park ca, 08/30/2023
1998 BMW Z3 2.8 2dr Convertible
1 of 1 people found this review helpful

1998 z3.2.8L.at 200000 miles doesnt burn 1 drop of oil.a beast to drive.put a smile on my face everytime.i d buy it all over again

Safety
4 out of 5 stars
Technology
4 out of 5 stars
Performance
5 out of 5 stars
Interior
3 out of 5 stars
Comfort
5 out of 5 stars
Reliability
5 out of 5 stars
Value
5 out of 5 stars
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4.75 out of 5 stars

Reliable

sparrowhawk, 04/05/2004
1998 BMW Z3 2.8 2dr Convertible
1 of 2 people found this review helpful

Not a commuting car, a fun car!

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4.13 out of 5 stars

The Ultimate Driving Machine

tech_786, 09/03/2002
1998 BMW Z3 2.8 2dr Convertible
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

I had this car for 6 months and I am very happy. It turns heads and is truly fun to drive with the top down. Engine is willing and car is quick, once on the freeway, more torque is needed for the 2.8.

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5 out of 5 stars

Perfect fun in the sun. top down beach cruiser!

RDX, 01/08/2023
1998 BMW Z3 1.9 2dr Convertible
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

I’ve owned this car since 1998 and have loved every minute of it. Always starts up, never any engine troubles. Very dependable. She’s a beauty, and needs someone who wants to tinker and restore her minor cosmetic blemishes to her former glory. It is very difficult for me to part with her, but am moving to Vancouver, Washington, and all the rain and snow with no garage just isn’t feasible. She’s always been good to me.

Safety
5 out of 5 stars
Technology
5 out of 5 stars
Performance
5 out of 5 stars
Interior
4 out of 5 stars
Comfort
5 out of 5 stars
Reliability
5 out of 5 stars
Value
5 out of 5 stars
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