1998 BMW Z3 Reviews, Pricing & Specs
Overview
The BMW Z3 was basically unchanged in the 1998 model year, although "aggressive tires" and a widened rear track "lend an even more...
The BMW Z3 was basically unchanged in the 1998 model year, although "aggressive tires" and a widened rear track "lend an even more purposeful look to this car's classic good looks."
And the car's purpose is speed. A "serious footprint" handles the car's potent thrust, especially in the souped up M-version. For drivers that like to go fast but don't necessarily need a racing car in disguise, the standard version with its 2.8 liter engine should be more than enough power.
As far as two-seat sports coupes go, the Z3 is snug but comfortable, and even people checking in at over six feet report few problems. As one driver said, "Fit and finish are superb, inside and out, and the seats provide the kind of lateral support that's required for enthusiastic cornering as well as the kind of contours and padding that go with all-day comfort."
What owners say
"Owners of the 1998 BMW Z3 generally love the car for its performance, driving experience, and classic styling. Many appreciate its fun and sporty character, especially when driving with the top down. Drivers often mention its fuel efficiency and reliability, making it enjoyable for long drives. However, some noted the lack of practicality, like limited trunk space and the car being less suitable for families."
This car has classic BMW styling and driver experience. It is a joy to drive. You’ll smile every time you are behind the wheel. There are newer, faster, and cars with more modern options, but if you want the visceral feeling of rubber meets pavement and the joy of being in the present behind the wheel, feeling every moment, then give the BMW Z3 a gander.
July 2, 2026Handles the curves and has plenty of curves herself. Pure joy to drive. I haven't had any problems with this car. Puurrrrrsss like a kitten. I was worried about the soft top holding up but it has faired very well.
June 10, 2012This sporty Z3 Roadster features a five speed manual transmission with exceptional handling. It boasts 138 horsepower sending the car from zero to sixty in 8.3 seconds flat. This stylish Roadster is similar to the model featured in classic '96 James Bond film, GoldenEye. You won't find a pair of Stinger missiles concealed behind the headlights on this car, but you can enjoy quality features such as heated leather seats, power locks, windows and doors, and cruise control just to name a few. Without a doubt, the highlight of this car is the convertible top. Cruising around town with the top down will turn a simple trip to the grocery store into an glamorous adventure. This classic BMW convertible is a fantastic ride and earned itself a 9.3 out of 10 in Kelley Blue Book's Consumer Reviews.
January 25, 2013What owners say
This car has classic BMW styling and driver experience. It is a joy to drive. You’ll smile every time you are behind the wheel. There are newer, faster, and cars with more modern options, but if you want the visceral feeling of rubber meets pavement and the joy of being in the present behind the wheel, feeling every moment, then give the BMW Z3 a gander.
July 2, 2026Handles the curves and has plenty of curves herself. Pure joy to drive. I haven't had any problems with this car. Puurrrrrsss like a kitten. I was worried about the soft top holding up but it has faired very well.
June 10, 2012This sporty Z3 Roadster features a five speed manual transmission with exceptional handling. It boasts 138 horsepower sending the car from zero to sixty in 8.3 seconds flat. This stylish Roadster is similar to the model featured in classic '96 James Bond film, GoldenEye. You won't find a pair of Stinger missiles concealed behind the headlights on this car, but you can enjoy quality features such as heated leather seats, power locks, windows and doors, and cruise control just to name a few. Without a doubt, the highlight of this car is the convertible top. Cruising around town with the top down will turn a simple trip to the grocery store into an glamorous adventure. This classic BMW convertible is a fantastic ride and earned itself a 9.3 out of 10 in Kelley Blue Book's Consumer Reviews.
January 25, 2013I have a 96 Z3 I bought new, drove over 230K miles with no problems, and love dearly. It is showing the wear, so I bought this 98 Z3 with 92K miles and drove it 400 miles home the day I bought it. Both will run 70+ mph all day and barely sip the gas. If you like a classic rag-top roadster, this is a great car. With BMW styling and handling, fun to drive and still gets lots of looks and comments. If you want a Mercedes or Porsche, buy one. If you want a Beemer,, this is a classic. A few still available out there with low milage in the $10-20 K range. More miles and a little more wear for $5-10 K
February 12, 2022One of the best roadsters ever made. It is such a wonderful deal for the money. Bought it 2 years ago, only 8.000 miles! The engine is pretty big for this little and light car, but you feel how well made this genuine BMW is.
January 5, 2015Loved driving it, loved the way it handles, comfy and you can drive it without getting tired on long trips, performance is great from the 6 cylinder engine and the car just loves to perform.
January 9, 2008I tested her speed and reached 145 MPH in about 22 seconds on a deserted hard road,handles great at high speed...hugs the road. Overall this is a great car and good on gas. Fun at the beach too.....drop the top and cruise.
March 19, 2013The Z3 is in the best tradition of the British sports cars of the 60, with the exception that everything about the Z3 is better than the earlier British cars, especially the electrical system and these cars can actually be driven in the rain and you stay dry.
August 19, 2014Z3's are a fun car to drive, especially with the top down. Definately not a family car. Great to drive and cheap on fuel, but repairs can be expensive. I'm very happy with mine, would recommend to anyone without kids.
February 5, 2009Nice car to drive, good on fuel, real head turner.
January 8, 2008Trims & specs
Base MSRP $29,995 | 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 5.0 cu ft |
Combined MPG N/A | Drivetrain N/A |
