BMW Z3 Roadster Models/Series Timeline, Specifications & Photos

BMW introduced an M version for its nimble little roadster Z3 in 1997 and offered it on both sides of the Atlantic, but with different power levels.

Basically, it was just another Z3 with a more powerful engine. But there was more than that. There were some visual upgrades and technical improvements that made the M-Roadster more desirable than its less-powered siblings.

The exterior benefited from a new front bumper that featured a lower spoiler. In addition, both the front and rear fenders were wider to fit the larger wheels and tires. In addition, the front fenders' louvers got a chromed horizontal slat, resembling the legendary BMW 507 from the late '50s. At the back, the quad exhaust system expressed in a vocal way the sound of the six-cylinder engine.

Inside, the Z3 M-Roadster received more standard features than its less-powered siblings. The leather-wrapped and heated high-seatback bucket and the power-folding roof were offered as standard. In addition, a better sound system and an AC unit were also present.

When it was introduced, the M-Roadster received the 3.2-liter S52 engine carried over from the E36 M3 that produced 321 PS (316 hp) for the European customers, while the American version featured the S50 powerplant that offered just 240 hp (243 PS). Later on, in 2001, the car finally received the improved S54 powerplant that provided similar power on both sides of the Atlantic. All versions were paired with the same five-speed manual, and the power went to the rear via a limited-slip differential. In addition, the M-Roadster got better brakes and stiffened suspension than its siblings.

The Z3 was the first vehicle built by BMW exclusively outside Germany and it was the first mass-produced Z-series model. It was the first vehicle built by the German car-maker to be featured in a James Bond movie franchise.

The predecessor of the BMW Z3 was the Z1. There was not any Z2 on the market. The Z3 was based on a mixed platform based on the E36 3-Series model, but with the rear axle taken from the E30 due to its compactness.

Z3 was a typical roadster with a long hood, short cabin, and even shorter rear deck. Its rounded form and wide headlights covered by a clear-lens cover attracted a lot of customers. It was produced until 2003. On the front fenders, there was an exhaust vent with four slats, that resembled the BMW 507 roadster.

Inside, there was a two-seat layout with a big center console between the occupants. The central stack was slightly tilted toward the driver. With the dials and gauges carried-over from the E36 model, the Z3 was fit for sporty driving.

Inside, it offered sport-bucket seats for both occupants. On the center stack, BMW installed a stereo and the controls for the air-conditioning unit. The bucket-seats featured high bolstering to support the occupants while fast cornering.

Even if it featured a mixed platform/drivetrain, the Z3 was a fast and nimble car. It was offered with a choice of engines ranged between 1.8-liter and 2.8-liter before the facelift. In 1999 the car went through a mid-life cycle refresh and received some updated engines. The 2.0-liter inline-six was replaced by a 2.2-liter, and the 2.3-liter was upgraded to a 2.5-liter, while the 2.8-liter was increased to 3.0-liter. The M versions were a different chapter.