Doug's Take
Now THIS is a special car! I've always loved the Z3 — especially in M guise — for its small-sizing, handsome looks, and engaging driving characteristics — and this one is more exciting than most. It's a late model, which received a slightly de-tuned version of the E46 M3's raucous S54 straight-six – a huge boost in power and performance over earlier M Roadster models. All M Roadsters came with a manual transmission, but other benefits here include some nice factory equipment and no modifications. This one also touts an impressive service history, adding even more peace of mind. S54-powered versions of these cars are highly uncommon — and if you've been on the hunt for one of these, look no further.
Highlights
THIS… is a 2001 BMW Z3 M Roadster, finished in Titanium Silver Metallic with a black soft top and black interior.
- According to the window sticker provided in the gallery, factory equipment includes a 5-speed manual transmission, a limited-slip differential, heated seats, and more as detailed below. The seller mentions no modifications.
- Based on the Z3, the M Roadster made its debut in 1998 with a more powerful engine shared with the E36 M3, a sportier suspension system, and wider wheel arches, among other changes. It was immediately hailed as one of the best driver's cars on the market.
- BMW built 8,939 units of the "S52"-powered M Roadster between 1998 and 2000, according to the BMW M Registry. 1,565 additional cars were manufactured from 2001 to 2002 with the newer "S54" engine, bringing the total to 10,504 units.
- Power for this Z3 M Roadster comes from a 3.2-liter "S54" inline-6, rated at 315 horsepower and 251 lb-ft of torque. Output is sent to the rear wheels via a 5-speed manual transmission.
Equipment
A window sticker is provided in the photo gallery, and a partial list of notable equipment includes:
- 17-inch Style 40 wheels
- 5-speed manual transmission
- Limited-slip differential
- Dynamic Stability Control (DSC)
- Quad exhaust tips
- M suspension
- M aerodynamic body panels
- M power-operated side-view mirrors
- Heated seats
- BMW Business CD player
Known Flaws
- The attached vehicle Carfax history report shows that this M Roadster was involved in an accident with another motor vehicle in May 2007. The accident report and repair documentation are pictured in the gallery.
- The seller mentions that the factory anti-theft system is nonoperative
- Stone chips on the forward-facing surfaces; scratches under the front bumper lip
- A dent on the driver's side rear wheel arch
- Some curb rash and scratches on the wheels
- Rear bumper is misaligned on the passenger's side
- Fold-line wear in the rear plastic window
- Creases and some cracks in the leather upholstery
- Some staining on the carpet
Recent Service History
Service records detail most of the maintenance performed on this M Roadster. The seller adds that recent work includes:
- October 2021 (114,374 miles): Oil and filter changed, brake pads inspected, brake sliders cleaned, fluid levels inspected
- November 2018 (112,397 miles): Oil and filter changed, upper idler pulley, alternator, air conditioning drive belts, and serpentine belt replaced
- July 2017 (~111,000 miles): Tires replaced, alignment performed
Other Items Included in Sale
- 3 keys, 2 fobs
- 1 plastic key
- Owner's manuals
- Window sticker
- Factory literature
- Service and repair documentation
- Red indoor dust cover
- Black tonneau cover
- Tool kit
- Tire repair kit
Ownership History
The seller purchased this M Roadster in December 2016 and has since added approximately 14,000 miles.