Doug's Take

Wow! The BMW Z3 M Roadster is a thrilling convertible that offers an engaging driving experience and a fantastic soundtrack from its S52 6-cylinder engine – making it even more incredible that this particular example only has 6,300 miles on the odometer. It also boasts a mandatory 5-speed manual, a classic color combination, AND no modifications, which are excellent benefits that further enhance its appeal. To top it off, this M Roadster comes with a clean, accident-free Carfax report showing mostly warm-climate California ownership since new, for added buyer confidence.

Highlights

THIS... is a 1998 BMW Z3 M Roadster, finished in Arctic Silver Metallic with a black soft top and a black interior.

• This M Roadster is equipped with a 5-speed manual transmission, and its odometer currently displays approximately 6,300 miles.
• The attached Carfax history report contains some gaps, though it indicates no accidents or mileage discrepancies in the given period; it also lists registrations in California until 2020.
• According to the build sheet provided in the gallery, factory equipment includes 17-inch Style 40 wheels, a limited-slip differential, a power-retractable soft top, Nappa leather upholstery, power-adjustable and heated seats, air conditioning, and a Harman/Kardon sound system. The seller reports 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.
• Power comes from an S52 3.2-liter straight-6, rated at 240 horsepower and 236 lb-ft of torque. Output is sent to the rear wheels via a 5-speed manual transmission.

Equipment

A build sheet is provided in the photo gallery, and a partial list of notable equipment includes:

• 17-inch Style 40 wheels
• Limited-slip differential
• Power-retractable soft top
• Nappa leather upholstery
• Power-adjustable and heated seats
• M leather-wrapped steering wheel
• Power windows, locks, and mirrors
• Center console-mounted VDO voltmeter and oil temperature gauge
• Air conditioning
• Cruise control
• Harman/Kardon sound system

Known Flaws

• Faded clear coat on the front bumper and driver's side mirror
• Antenna is missing
• Scratches on the wheels
• Some creases on the driver's seat

Recent Service History

The attached Carfax history report shows that the following services were performed in September 2020:

• Liftgate/tailgate support strut(s), upper and lower radiator hoses, and radiator hose clamp replaced, engine oil and filter changed, brake fluid flushed/changed, transmission fluid changed, differential fluid flushed/changed

The seller reports that the following services have been performed:

• December 2023: Engine oil and filter changed, brake fluid flushed
• In 2020: Tires, soft top, battery, fuel pump, spark plugs, thermostat, and water pump replaced, alignment performed

The seller notes that the engine oil and filter were changed annually during their ownership.

Other Items Included in Sale

• 1 key
• Owner's manual
• Tonneau cover

Ownership History

The seller purchased this M Roadster in December 2020 but did not register it in his name until June 2021.