1997 BMW Z3 Reviews, Pricing & Specs
Overview
When the Z3 was launched in the 1996, the biggest and perhaps only complaint was that its 1.9 liter, four cylinder engine didn't provide...
When the Z3 was launched in the 1996, the biggest and perhaps only complaint was that its 1.9 liter, four cylinder engine didn't provide the speed, torque and performance you'd expect in a classic sports roadster. BMW made amends with the 1997 Z#, dropping in a 2.5 liter in the standard version and adding the Z3 2.8, with a six cylinder, 2.8 liter engine to the line up.
That amounted to a 51 point jump in horsepower and effectively silenced the critics who are otherwise taken by the cars styling and handling. Also added in 1997 was a longer list of standard features, including fatter tires and a wider rear rack.
Inside, there's not much to distinguish the 1.9 from 2.8. But, as one reviewer said, "we regard that as a good thing, because BMW got it right to begin with."
What owners say
"Overall, owners of the 1997 BMW Z3 really enjoy the classic roadster feel, sporty performance, and stylish design. They love how fun the car is to drive and appreciate its comfort during long trips. However, some drivers mention that it lacks the power expected from a sports car and can be expensive to maintain, especially if serviced at a dealership."
This car, although not as fast as some, is superior in overall performance. It takes the corners like it is on rails. I have never had a more dependable vehicle. It is constantly amazing to me that I can drive it for hours and still be comfortable. It sips gas getting between 28 and 35 miles per gallon and can travel at excessive speeds for hours on end. Wind and road noise are remarkably low for a vert. It looks fantastic and draws attention as if it were just out of the show room.
October 20, 2010Any e36 is great!!! z3 is a derivative and all are great-6 cylinder is bulletproof if well taken care of
April 3, 2020This is the most stylish car I've ever had. It gives you the traditional roadster feeling. The build quality is excellent, cost of ownership is average. Performance is amazing, the 193 horsepower is ideal for this car. Maximum speed is 225 km/h, i've tried one time, but it is so noisy then;)
May 25, 2010What owners say
This car, although not as fast as some, is superior in overall performance. It takes the corners like it is on rails. I have never had a more dependable vehicle. It is constantly amazing to me that I can drive it for hours and still be comfortable. It sips gas getting between 28 and 35 miles per gallon and can travel at excessive speeds for hours on end. Wind and road noise are remarkably low for a vert. It looks fantastic and draws attention as if it were just out of the show room.
October 20, 2010Any e36 is great!!! z3 is a derivative and all are great-6 cylinder is bulletproof if well taken care of
April 3, 2020This is the most stylish car I've ever had. It gives you the traditional roadster feeling. The build quality is excellent, cost of ownership is average. Performance is amazing, the 193 horsepower is ideal for this car. Maximum speed is 225 km/h, i've tried one time, but it is so noisy then;)
May 25, 2010Great combination of sport and luxury all rolled into one! Unique leather interior. Has a typical stiff sport suspension, but still manages to deliver a smooth ride. Manual convertible top is easy to use. Fun to drive, especially with the top down!
June 19, 2013FUN car to drive, with the right upgrades, no body roll, perfect amount of power with a turbo 2.8 i6, get one and make it your project car, make sure t have some money for it, took me a while to get my parts together but sooo worth it
October 19, 2011Bought this car a year ago with 53,000 miles, looks like new and drives great. Everytime I take it out,(which I only do on nice days) it turns heads. Also I have people come up to me and want to buy it from me. The car is really a lot of fun, glad I bought it when I did, I will never sell it as it is getting to be a true collectors item.
May 18, 2008Good gas mileage from a sporty ride. Our Z3 has been in two minor accidents and I was pleased that it can take a beating and holds up so well. Its ability to go through corners like a go-cart puts a smile on my face on a twisty road.
June 18, 2013This car is powerful and fun to drive. I've found that it can be expensive to maintain if you have the servicing done at a BMW dealership. I prefer to do my own maintenance and the parts for this car are not too expensive.
March 5, 2012These cars are amazing, the fun factor on these cars is through the roof, i absoulutly love driving them.
February 5, 2008Fun factor is through the roof! After i put aftermarket wheels and tires there is no corner this car cant handle. The cost to maintain is kinda high though, I had a fog light ggo out and it cost $40 to ship from germany not to mention the cost of the light. Fuel econmony isnt as bad as you would think, it still gets 28 MPG as long as you keep your foot out of it. ONe downfall is the fact that it requires premium fuel.
November 23, 2011Trims & specs
Base MSRP $29,570 | Seating 2 |
Engine N/A | Cargo Capacity 5.0 cu ft |
Combined MPG N/A | Drivetrain N/A |
Base MSRP $36,470 | Seating 2 |
Engine N/A | Cargo Capacity 5.8 cu ft |
Combined MPG N/A | Drivetrain N/A |
