Lot details

Year: 2001
Make: BMW
Model: Z3
Registration: X52 DJM
Chassis No: WBACN51010LJ40515
Engine No: 2746957
Mileage: 81,864

The Z3 was the first modern mass-market roadster produced by BMW as well as the first new BMW model to be assembled in the United States. It was introduced as a 1996 model year vehicle, shortly after being featured in the James Bond movie 'Golden Eye'. While the film was number one at the box office, sales of the car peaked and it was sold out by the time the car was launched. The Z3 was designed by Joji Nagashima of the BMW design team and developed from the E36 platform of the 3-Series. The resulting platform is often referred to as the E36/7(roadster) or E36/8(coupe). When launched, only the 1.9 litre straight four engine was offered, but its 138bhp was not up to expectations. A 2.2 litre engine producing 168bhp was made available for the more enthusiastic driver and in 1997 a powerful six cylinder 2.8-litre engine producing 190bhp was an option, or a 3.0-litre straight six with 228bhp.

The car we have here presents well in Topaz Blue with a very retro two tone blue and black interior. The car was serviced by Robert Stern BMW up until 2007 at just shy of 48,000 miles, then visited Rybrook BMW in 2009 at 55,000 miles. Since then, the car has been serviced a handful of times by smaller independent garages, most recently at 81,803 miles. These cars are getting even better with age, a true BMW analogue sports car, which we're very unlikely to see produced by them ever again. The car is supplied to auction with its leather wallets containing owner's manual, service book, and brochure. Also included are various service bills, a V5C registration document and MoT test certificate valid until April 2025. Consigned by Fraser Smith