1999 BMW Z3
Base Z3 Adds Two Cylinders, Gaining Performance And Credibility

Now Standard With A Six-Cylinder Engine,
The Z3 Loses Its Halfway Image.
The Addition Of Performance
And Coupe Models Adds To The Versatility.

By Bob Storck

Vehicle Type: Sports Coupe

Price Range: $30,520 to $45,000

Engine: 2.5-liter, 170-horsepower I6 or 2.8 liter, 193 hp I6 or 3.2 liter, 240 hp I6 Front Engine/Rear Drive

Transmission: manual transmission

Safety Features: Driver and passenger side airbags and ABS anti-lock brakes are standard

Fuel Economy: 20 mpg city/27 mpg highway

Pine Mountain, California -- One of the few criticisms people had regarding the original Z3 was its four-cylinder engine. BMW added the six with more aggressive bodywork, and then stuffed in a highly-tuned M-badged engine. Now they set new standards with a utilitarian coupe, and have dispensed with the four-cylinder versions.

Two years ago I got together with some excellent friends, driving some of the newest and most prized convertible sports cars from coast to coast. This first week in February, even the weatherman was cooperating, with good enough conditions on our southern route to allow us to put the tops down whenever we wanted. Our fantastic interstate system provided quick progress from across the nation, but whenever the opportunity permitted we took side roads to enjoy the scenery, and almost more importantly, the fun handling of these cars. When twisty bits were on the schedule, the Z3 driver seat was a highly prized place to be.