The BMW Z3, the
cute little convertible that James Bond likes to drive, was introduced in
1996. For 1998, there is also a Z3 spin-off, the M roadster.
This page, however, will focus on the Z3. This is the car that brought
back sport coupes. After the Z3 was introduced, the
Mercedes-Benz SLK, and the Porsche Boxster all
came about too. The Z3 is available in two engines, a 1.9 litre 4-cylinder,
and a 2.8 I6. The latter was introduced in 1997. All details
on this page will be given, from manufacturer's data, for the faster
car, the 2.8 I6. The base price for this baby, by the way, is a little
over $35,000.
Specs
Engine
2.8L 189-hp I6
Transmission
5-Speed Manual
Horsepower
189 @ 5300 RPM
Torque lbs-ft
203
Acceleration 0-60 mph
6.1 sec.
Top Track Speed
NA
Fuel Economy (City/Highway) mpg
19 / 26
Length
158.5 in.
Width
68.5 in
Wheelbase
96.3 in.
This is the Z3-based M Roadster, with a more powerful engine, and a 0-60
time of 5.4 seconds. Is it worth the extra $15,000? The jury
is still out.