Appearing in 1995, BMW’s funky and spunky Z3 was the first of a quartet of new-age German luxury-brand roadsters to reach the market. It would be sold with a variety of four- and six-cylinder engines, but the hottest model was the M Roadster introduced in 1997. A thorough workover from the automaker’s M Motorsports division turned the demure little Z3 into a road warrior, with a pumped-up powertrain, chassis, and body. The model received praise for its pure sports car feel and performance. With BMW luxury, however, the M Roadster could be used as an everyday car.
The initial North American spec for the car included a 240-hp 3.2-liter, naturally aspirated inline-six, which made the 3,100-pound roadster quite quick. Contemporary road tests showed 0-60 in about 5.3 seconds and the quarter mile in 14 seconds at 100 mph. Later versions got a 315-horsepower version, but the owner of this very-low-mile 1999 BMW M Roadster treated this early model to extra performance courtesy of tuner AC Schnitzer and a Eurosport supercharger.
In other respects, the car is presented as stock and in overall “excellent” condition. The seller says he had been using the car only for summer driving but is now downsizing his collection before retiring.
POWERTRAIN
Aside from the added Eurosport supercharger and cold-air intake, the M Roadster’s S52 3.2-liter DOHC inline-six engine is original, according to the seller. No performance claims for the supercharged engine are provided. The seller affirms no leaks or weeps and reports no issues for the five-speed manual transmission.
EXTERIOR
The seller states that the vehicle’s striking Estoril Blue paint is original and in "mint condition," with no body blemishes specified. The convertible top is described in “excellent condition.” The glass is in “good shape,” as are the seals, with no leaks or rust reported. All lighting functions as designed, the seller states.
INTERIOR
The owner affirms that the car’s carpet and interior trim are in "good condition," as is the top’s headliner. The black and blue leather seat material is in “excellent condition,” and the heat and A/C work. All gauges function as designed, as do the power windows and locks, the seller says. The factory stereo system is reported to be in good working condition.
CHASSIS
The seller describes the car's suspension and brakes as original and with no servicing needs. The 18-inch AC Schnitzer wheels are in "good shape" with no pitting or curb rash. The Michelin tires show 2012 DOT date codes, so the next owner should consider replacing them for safety due to their age. The seller describes the power-assisted steering as “excellent, with no leaks or play” and says the antilock four-wheel disc brakes work as designed.
DOCUMENTATION
The seller states that this vehicle will be sold on the proper Alberta, Canada, document in his name for transfer of ownership. This 1999 BMW M Roadster recalled the great high-performance European roadsters but offered better performance and comfort. The seller has upgraded this car’s performance with a supercharger, so it should be even more thrilling to drive. Aside from a new set of tires recommended, it is presented with no needs.