View source for BMW Z3

{{Use dmy dates|date=June 2018}}
{{Use American English|date= October 2025}}
{{Infobox automobile
| name = BMW Z3
| image = 1999 BMW Z3 2.3 roadster, front right, 08-24-2024.jpg
| production = September 1995&ndash;June 2002
| assembly = United States: [[Greer, South Carolina]] ([[BMW US Manufacturing Company#Spartanburg manufacturing plant|Plant Spartanburg]])
| class = [[Sports car]] ([[S-Segment|S]])
| body_style = {{unbulleted list |2-door [[roadster (automobile)|roadster]] |3-door [[shooting-brake]] }}
| platform = 
| related = [[BMW 3 Series (E36)]]
| layout = [[Front-engine, rear-wheel-drive layout|Front-engine, rear-wheel drive]]
| engine = {{unbulleted list | Gasoline: 
  | 1.8–1.9&nbsp;L ''[[BMW M43#M43B18|M43]]''/''[[BMW M44|M44]]'' [[inline-four engine|I4]] 
  | 2.0–3.0&nbsp;L ''[[BMW M52|M52]]''/''[[BMW M54|M54]]'' [[straight-six engine|I6]]
  | 3.2&nbsp;L ''[[BMW M50#S50B32|S50]]''/''[[BMW M52#S52B32|S52]]''/''[[BMW M54#S54B32|S54]]'' [[straight-six engine|I6]]
}}
| transmission = {{unbulleted list 
  |5-speed ''[[Magna PT#Longitudinal orientation|GETRAG 250]]''/''[[ZF S5-31 transmission|ZF S5-31]]'' [[manual transmission|manual]]
  |4-speed ''[[GM 4L30-E transmission|GM Hydra-matic 4L30E]]'' [[automatic transmission|automatic]]
  |5-speed ''[[GM 5L40-E transmission|GM 5L40-E]]''/''[[ZF 5HP transmission|ZF 5HP]]'' [[automatic transmission|automatic]]
  }}
| wheelbase = {{convert|2446|mm|in|1|abbr=on}}
| length = {{convert|4025|mm|in|1|abbr=on}}
| width = {{convert|1692|mm|in|1|abbr=on}}
| height = {{convert|1293|-|1306|mm|in|1|abbr=on}}
| weight = {{convert|1160-1400|kg|lb|0|abbr=on}}
| predecessor = [[BMW Z1]]
| successor = [[BMW Z4 (E85)]]
| manufacturer = [[BMW]]
| designer = [[Joji Nagashima]]<br>Burkhard Göschel
| model_years = 1996&ndash;2002
}}

The '''BMW Z3''' is a range of two-seater [[sports car]]s which was produced from 1995 to 2002. The body styles of the range are:
* 2-door [[roadster (automobile)|roadster]] (E36/7 model code)
* 2-door [[coupé]] (E36/8 model code)

The Z3 was based on the [[BMW 3 Series Compact|E36/5]] compact platform,<ref name="torquenews" /> a shortened version of the conventional E36 platform. This smaller and cheaper platform used the rear [[trailing-arm suspension|semi-trailing arm suspension]] design from the older [[BMW 3 Series (E30)|E30 3 Series]]. It is the first mass-produced [[BMW Z Series|Z Series]] car.

M models were introduced in 1998 in roadster and coupé body styles and were powered by the [[BMW M50#S50B32|S50]], [[BMW M52#S52|S52]], or [[BMW M54#S54B32|S54]] [[straight-six engine]] depending on country and model year. The M models came with a 5-speed [[manual transmission]]. The regular Z3s were offered with straight-sixes or four-cylinder engines.

Production ended on June 28, 2002,<ref name="goupstate.com2">{{cite web|url=http://www.goupstate.com/article/20080311/NEWS/497779662|title=Timeline: BMW in Spartanburg|work=GoUpstate.com|access-date=9 May 2013|archive-date=2 May 2008|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080502145742/http://www.goupstate.com/article/20080311/NEWS/497779662|url-status=dead}}</ref> with the Z3 line replaced by the [[BMW Z4 (E85)|E85 Z4]].

==Development and launch==
Development on the roadster began in 1991 and was led by Burkhard Göschel.<ref name="torquenews">{{cite web|title=Hyundai Genesis Coupe Follows BMW Z3's Precedence|url=https://www.torquenews.com/1/how-hyundai-genesis-coupe-follows-bmw-z3|website=www.torquenews.com|date=10 June 2014 |access-date=22 June 2017}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|title=Catching Up With: Burkhard Goeschel|url=http://www.automobilemag.com/news/now-burkhard-goeschel/|website=www.automobilemag.com|date=12 October 2016 |access-date=22 June 2017}}</ref> The exterior was designed by [[Joji Nagashima]], being completed in mid-1992 at 39 months before production<ref name="bmwblog">{{cite web|url=http://www.bmwblog.com/2015/07/06/the-beautiful-bmw-z3-roadster-photoshoot/|title=The beautiful BMW Z3 Roadster – Photoshoot|website=www.bmwblog.com|date=6 July 2015 |access-date=22 June 2017}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|title=BMW Z3 (E36) Roadster & Coupe 1997 to 2002|url=https://zroadster.org/articles/bmw-z3-e36-roadster-coupe-1997-to-2002.5/|website=www.zroadster.org|date=2 April 2014 |access-date=22 June 2017}}</ref> and the design was frozen in 1993.<ref>{{cite journal|last1=Bangle|first1=Chris|title=The ultimate creativity machine. How BMW turns art into profit.|journal=Harvard Business Review|date=January 2001|volume=79|issue=1|pages=47–55|pmid=11189462|url=https://hbr.org/2001/01/how-bmw-turns-art-into-profit|access-date=12 December 2017}}</ref> Design patents were filed on April 2, 1994, in Germany and on September 27, 1994, in the US.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://register.dpma.de/DPMAregister/gsm/register?GSNR=M9402969-0001|title=DPMAregister - Designs - Registerauskunft zum Design|work=dpma.de}}</ref> The Z3 was introduced via video press release by BMW North America on June 12, 1995. Production began on September 20, 1995.<ref>{{cite web| url = http://www.autonews.com/article/19950814/ANA/508140731/bmw-sets-z3-job-1-for-september| title = BMW SETS Z3 JOB 1 FOR SEPTEMBER {{!}} Automotive News}}</ref>

Development on the coupé model was run by a group of BMW engineers outside of work in their own time.<ref name="Lieberman">{{Cite news|url=https://jalopnik.com/258496/the-jalopnik-fantasy-garage-first-generation-bmw-m-coupe|title=The Jalopnik Fantasy Garage: First-Generation BMW M Coupe|last=Lieberman|first=Jonny|work=Jalopnik|access-date=2018-02-21|language=en-US}}</ref> The Z3 Coupé shares the identical platform and parts with the roadster, but features a chassis-stiffening hatch area and is 2.7 times stiffer in comparison.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.bmwz3coupe.com/storia.asp|title=BMW z3 Coupè|website=www.bmwz3coupe.com|access-date=2018-02-21}}</ref><ref name="Lieberman"/> The Z3 Coupé was unveiled at the [[Frankfurt Motor Show#1997|1997 Frankfurt Motor Show]].

The Z3 was the first BMW model to be solely manufactured outside of Germany. It was manufactured in [[Greer, South Carolina]].<ref name="bmwblog" />

==Body styles==
<gallery widths="200px" heights="150px">
File:1996-1998 BMW Z3 Roadster.jpg|E36/7 roadster (Pre-facelift)
File:1998 BMW Z3 1.9 Rear.jpg|E36/7 roadster (Pre-facelift)
File:2001 BMW Z3 Roadster Automatic 2.2 Rear.jpg|E36/7 roadster (Facelift)
File:BMW Z3 Coupe 1Y7A6188.jpg|E36/8 coupé
</gallery>

===Roadster (E36/7)===
Roadster models entered production in September 1995, powered by [[multi-cylinder engine#Four-cylinder engines|4-cylinder engines]] on launch. [[straight-six engine|6-cylinder engines]] were later introduced in 1996.<ref>{{cite web|title=Z3 E36 model selection|url=http://www.realoem.com/bmw/en/select?product=P&archive=1&series=Z3&body=Roa&model=Z3+2.8|website=www.realoem.com|access-date=22 June 2017}}</ref> A removable hardtop roof was available as an optional accessory.

===Coupé (E36/8)===
Coupé models entered production in January 1998.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://bmw-grouparchiv.de/research/detail/index.xhtml?id=3850532|title=BMW Z3 coupé 2.8 (E36/7)|work=BMW Group|language=de|access-date=18 July 2020|archive-date=7 April 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230407141347/https://bmw-grouparchiv.de/research/detail/index.xhtml?id=3850532|url-status=dead}}</ref> The unusual side profile has been given nicknames such as "clown shoe" and "bread van" by critics.<ref>{{cite web|title=BMW Z3M Coupe For Sale: Clown Shoes are getting expensive|url=http://www.bmwblog.com/2017/01/07/bmw-z3m-coupe-sale-clown-shoes-getting-expensive/|website=www.bmwblog.com|access-date=22 June 2017}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|title=Does a BMW Z3 M Coupé Live Up to the Hype?|url=http://www.roadandtrack.com/car-culture/videos/a28484/bmw-z3-m-coupe-video/|website=www.roadandtrack.com|date=16 March 2016 |access-date=22 June 2017}}</ref><ref name="carthrottle">{{cite web|title=Why The BMW Z3 M Is A Proper 90s Hero Car|url=https://www.carthrottle.com/post/why-the-bmw-z3m-is-a-90s-hero-car/|website=www.carthrottle.com|date=18 May 2015 |access-date=22 June 2017}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|title=BMW Z3 M Coupé. Bahrain. Bread van rakes in the dough|url=https://www.crankandpiston.com/on-the-road/bmw-z3-m-coupe-bahrain-bread-van-rakes-in-the-dough/|website=www.crankandpiston.com|date=27 August 2013 |access-date=22 June 2017}}</ref> In Germany, it has been referred to as a "turnschuh" (sports shoe).<ref>{{cite web|title=Gebrauchtwagen-Test: BMW Z3 Coupé (1998-2002)|url=http://www.autobild.de/artikel/bmw-z3-coupe-1998-2002--38163.html|website=www.autobild.de|date=22 August 2002 |access-date=22 June 2017}}</ref>

The coupé body style was only available with the engines that matched the 2.8, 3.0i, and M model Roadsters. The engine outputs varied as they spanned three generations of engine architecture, peaking at 325 horsepower with the facelift M Coupé. Like the roadster models, it was [[rear-wheel drive]] only, and was available in either an automatic or manual transmission.<ref>{{cite web| title=BMW Z3 Coupe Specs| url=https://www.ultimatespecs.com/car-specs/BMW/M6477/Z3-Coupe| website=ultimatespecs.com| access-date=2023-04-05}}</ref> Very few of these cars were made, making it rarer than most cars, the [[BMW M Coupé and Roadster#E36/7|BMW M Coupe]] model especially so.<ref>{{cite web| title=The BMW Z3 M Coupe| url=https://www.bmw-m.com/en/topics/magazine-article-pool/bmw-z3-m-coupe.html| website=bmw-m.com| access-date=2022-09-29}}</ref>

==Transmissions==
The available transmissions are:<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.realoem.com/bmw/enUS/select?product=P&archive=1&series=Z3|title=RealOEM.com - Select Your BMW Model|website=www.realoem.com|access-date=2018-02-21}}</ref>
* 5-speed [[ZF S5-31 transmission|ZF S5-31]] [[manual transmission|manual]] (Z3 2.8 / 3.0i / Z3M)
* 5-speed [[Getrag]] 250 [[manual transmission|manual]] (Z3 1.8 / 1.9i / 2.0 / 2.2i / 2.5)
* 4-speed [[GM 4L30-E transmission|GM 4L30-E]] [[automatic transmission|automatic]] (Z3 1.9 / 2.0 / 2.5 / 2.8)
* 5-speed [[GM 5L40-E transmission|GM 5L40-E]] [[automatic transmission|automatic]] (Z3 2.2i / 2.5 / 3.0)

==Models==
The 4-cylinder models feature a single tailpipe, while six-cylinder models have dual tailpipes, wider rear fenders (for pre-facelift models) and a revised front bumper. M models featured the same wider fenders as the six-cylinder models but with unique front and rear bumpers, side mirrors and the M division's first use of a quad exhaust pipe arrangement.

The 1.8, 2.0, and 2.2i models were unavailable in the United States. The U.S. was also the only market to receive the 2.3 and 2.5 models

{|class="wikitable sortable" style="text-align: center;"
! Model !! Years !! Engine !! Power !! Torque
|-
| rowspan="2" |1.8 || 1995–1998 || [[BMW M43#M43B18|M43B18]] <br /> [[inline-four engine|inline-four]] || {{convert|85|kW|PS hp|0|abbr=on}} <br /> at 5,500 rpm ||{{convert|168|Nm|lbft|0|abbr=on}} <br /> at 3,900 rpm
|-
|1999–2000 ||[[BMW M43#M43B19|M43B19]] <br /> [[inline-four engine|inline-four]] ||{{convert|87|kW|PS hp|0|abbr=on}} <br /> at 5,500 rpm ||{{convert|180|Nm|lbft|0|abbr=on}} <br /> at 3,900 rpm
|-
|1.9 || 1995–1999 || [[BMW M44#M44B19|M44B19]] <br /> [[inline-four engine|inline-four]] ||{{convert|103|kW|PS hp|0|abbr=on}} <br /> at 6,000 rpm ||{{convert|180|Nm|lbft|0|abbr=on}} <br /> at 4,300 rpm
|-
|1.9i
| 2000–2002 || [[BMW M43#M43B19|M43B19]] <br /> [[inline-four engine|inline-four]] ||{{convert|87|kW|PS hp|0|abbr=on}} <br /> at 5,500 rpm ||{{convert|180|Nm|lbft|0|abbr=on}} <br /> at 3,900 rpm
|-
| 2.0 || 1999–2000 || [[BMW M52#M52TUB20|M52TUB20]] <br /> [[straight-six engine|inline-six]] ||{{convert|110|kW|PS hp|0|abbr=on}} <br /> at 5,900 rpm ||{{convert|190|Nm|lbft|0|abbr=on}} <br /> at 3,500 rpm 
|-
| 2.2i || 2000–2002 || [[BMW M54#M54B22|M54B22]] <br /> [[straight-six engine|inline-six]] ||{{convert|125|kW|PS hp|0|abbr=on}} <br /> at 6,100 rpm ||{{convert|210|Nm|lbft|0|abbr=on}} <br /> at 3,500 rpm
|-
| 2.3 || 1998–2000 || [[BMW M52#M52TUB25|M52TUB25]] <br /> [[straight-six engine|inline-six]] || {{convert|127|kW|PS hp|0|abbr=on}} <br /> at 5,500 rpm || {{convert|245|Nm|lbft|0|abbr=on}} <br /> at 3,500 rpm 
|-
|2.5i || 2000–2002 ||[[BMW M54#M54B25|M54B25]] <br /> [[straight-six engine|inline-six]] || {{convert|137|kW|PS hp|0|abbr=on}} <br /> at 6,000 rpm
|{{convert|237|Nm|lbft|0|abbr=on}} <br /> at 3,500 rpm
|-
| rowspan="2" |2.8 || 1997–1998 || [[BMW M52#M52B28|M52B28]] <br /> [[straight-six engine|inline-six]] ||{{convert|141|kW|PS hp|0|abbr=on}} <br /> at 5,300 rpm ||{{convert|275|Nm|lbft|0|abbr=on}} <br /> at 3,950 rpm
|-
| 1999–2000 || [[BMW M52#M52TUB28|M52TUB28]] <br /> [[straight-six engine|inline-six]] ||{{convert|142|kW|PS hp|0|abbr=on}} <br /> at 5,300 rpm ||{{convert|280|Nm|lbft|0|abbr=on}} <br /> at 3,500 rpm
|-
| 3.0i || 2000–2002 || [[BMW M54#M54B30|M54B30]] <br /> [[straight-six engine|inline-six]] ||{{convert|170|kW|PS hp|0|abbr=on}} <br /> at 5,900 rpm ||{{convert|300|Nm|lbft|0|abbr=on}} <br /> at 3,500 rpm
|-
| rowspan="2" |Z3M <br /> (EU) || 1997–2000 || [[BMW M50#S50B32|S50B32]] <br /> [[straight-six engine|inline-six]] || {{convert|236|kW|PS hp|0|abbr=on}}<br /> at 7,400 rpm
| {{convert|350|Nm|lbft|0|abbr=on}} <br /> at 3,250 rpm
|-
|2001–2002 || [[BMW M54#S54B32|S54B32]] <br /> [[straight-six engine|inline-six]] || {{convert|239|kW|PS hp|0|abbr=on}}<br /> at 7,400 rpm
|{{convert|350|Nm|lbft|0|abbr=on}} <br /> at 4,900 rpm
|-
| rowspan="2" |Z3M <br /> (US) || 1997–2000 ||[[BMW M52#S52|S52B32]] <br /> [[straight-six engine|inline-six]] ||{{convert|179|kW|PS hp|0|abbr=on}} <br /> at 6,000 rpm ||{{convert|305|Nm|lbft|0|abbr=on}} <br /> at 4,250 rpm
|-
| 2001–2002 ||[[BMW M54#S54B32|S54B32]] <br /> [[straight-six engine|inline-six]] ||{{convert|235|kW|PS hp|0|abbr=on}} <br /> at 7,400 rpm ||{{convert|340|Nm|lbft|0|abbr=on}} <br /> at 4,900 rpm
|}

==M models==
{{Main|BMW M Coupé and Roadster#First generation (1997–2002)}}

The M versions were introduced in 1997 in the roadster (''M Roadster'') and coupé (''M Coupé'') body styles. European models were initially powered by the [[BMW M50#S50B32|S50]] inline-six engine, while North American models were powered by the less powerful [[BMW S52|S52]] inline-six engine. In 2001 both the European and North American models switched to the new [[BMW M54#S54B32|S54]] engine. The Z3M was only available with a 5-speed manual transmission.

Compared to the standard Z3, M models featured a [[limited-slip differential|limited slip differential]], a wider rear track,<ref name="carthrottle"/> and larger brakes (that are shared with the E36 M3). M models were available in M-specific colors and feature numerous aesthetic and aerodynamic differences versus the rest of the Z3 range, including more aerodynamic side-view mirrors, redesigned front and rear bumpers, bespoke "Roadstar" Style 40 wheels, revised side gills, and quad exhaust pipes. The interior can also be differentiated by the voltmeter, clock, and oil temperature gauges in the center console as well as unique M-styled seats and interior color options.

Unlike the rest of the Z3 range, the M Roadster and the M Coupé did not receive cosmetic changes during the facelift in 2000.

<gallery heights="120" mode="packed" widths="150">
File:BMW Z3 M - Flickr - Alexandre Prévot (cropped).jpg|M Roadster front
File:BMW Z3 M - Flickr - Alexandre Prévot (1).jpg|M Roadster rear
File:BMW Z3 M (E36-8) IMG 8841.jpg|M Coupé rear
</gallery>

==Special models==
===James Bond Edition===
[[File:Z3_Roadster_James_Bond_Edition.jpg|thumb|right|Z3 as featured in ''GoldenEye'']]
To tie in with its appearance in ''[[GoldenEye]]'', a James Bond film which was released the same year, BMW released a "James Bond Edition" Z3 that was offered for sale through the [[Neiman Marcus]] Christmas catalog. The James Bond Edition was sold in 1996 for {{usd|35,000|1996}}. BMW and Neiman Marcus had originally set a 20-unit sales goal, but this was later increased to 100 units after receiving a high level of interest from customers.

The James Bond Edition was based on the Z3 1.9i and included a 007 dash plaque, 007 floor mats, unique wheels, and chrome exterior trim. The color scheme was an "Atlanta blue" exterior with beige leather interior, matching the Z3 which appeared in GoldenEye.
The VIN of all 100 limited edition cars has code 007, and the last two indicate that out of 100 produced there is a specific example (....00700 to 00799). Exactly half of the cars (50 pieces) had a manual transmission and the same number had an automatic transmission.
<ref>{{cite web|title=1996 BMW Z3 James Bond Edition Roadster|url=http://www.bonhams.com/auctions/22717/lot/248/|website=www.bonhams.com|access-date=24 June 2017}}</ref>
[[File:Hood of the prototype V12 Z3.jpg|thumb|Hood of the prototype V12 Z3]]

===V12 prototype===
In 1999, the BMW M division produced a single prototype Z3 powered by the 5.4 L [[BMW M73|M73]] V12 engine<ref>{{cite web|title=All You Want to Know About the BMW M Z3 V12 Prototype|url=http://www.carscoops.com/2012/08/all-you-want-to-know-about-bmw-m-z3-v12.html|website=www.carscoops.com|access-date=24 June 2017}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|title=M GmbH Reveals "Mystery" V12-powered BMW Z3 Prototype|url=http://blog.caranddriver.com/m-gmbh-reveals-mystery-v12-powered-bmw-z3-prototype/|website=www.caranddriver.com|access-date=24 June 2017}}</ref> in order to test the space efficiency of the engine bay.<ref>{{cite web|title=The V12 BMW Z3 that almost was|url=http://oppositelock.kinja.com/the-v12-bmw-z3-that-almost-was-labor-day-weekend-bavar-1235043326|website=www.oppositelock.kinja.com|access-date=24 June 2017}}</ref> It is based on the Z3 roadster, has 17 inch wheels with 225/45 tires up front and 245/40 at the rear, and is painted in a shade of orange. The V12 was rated at {{convert|322|hp|kW|0|abbr=on|order=flip}} at 5,000 rpm and {{convert|490|Nm|lbft|0|abbr=on}} of torque at 3,900 rpm, and power was sent through a 6-speed manual transmission. The concept is much heavier than the standard Z3 at {{convert|1400|kg|lb|0|abbr=on}}, with nearly all of that excess weight attributable to the V12—the big engine resulted in a 70/30 weight distribution front/rear. The concept was fully functional and was tested by the German motoring magazine ''[[Autozeitung]]'' in 1999. Their tests revealed a {{convert|0-100|km/h|mph|0|abbr=on}} time of 5.5&nbsp;seconds, a standing kilometer ({{convert|1.0|km|mi|2|abbr=off|disp=out}}) in 24.4&nbsp;seconds, and a top speed of {{convert|263|km/h|mph|0|abbr=on}}.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.carscoops.com/2012/08/all-you-want-to-know-about-bmw-m-z3-v12/|title=All You Want to Know About the BMW M Z3 V12 Prototype |date=10 August 2012 |website=www.carscoops.com|access-date=2018-08-12|language=en-US}}</ref>

===M Coupé Safety Car===
A [[safety car]] variant of the BMW M Coupé was produced by the BMW M division for [[MotoGP]] and used in the [[2000 Grand Prix motorcycle racing season|2000 season]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.autobild.de/bilder/gran-coupe-fuehrt-safety-car-flotte-an-3940998.html#bild5|title=Gran Coupé führt Safety-Car-Flotte an|website=autobild.de|access-date=30 August 2017}}</ref>

==Model year changes==
===1997===
* M Roadster and M Coupé models introduced to the public.
* BMW Individual introduced to Z3 models.<ref>{{Cite book|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=Ezw8DgAAQBAJ&q=BMW+Individual+became+available+for+the+Z3+during+1997|title=BMW Z3 and Z4: The Complete Story|last=Taylor|first=James|date=2017-03-31|publisher=The Crowood Press|isbn=9781785002779|language=en}}</ref>

===1998===
* Coupé models introduced.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.roadandtrack.com/car-culture/a10918/used-car-classic-bmw-z3-roadster-coupe/|title=Used Car Classic: BMW Z3 Roadster & Coupe|date=2012-11-06|work=Road & Track|access-date=2018-06-13|language=en-US}}</ref>
* Wood trim and a power soft top were added as options.<ref>{{Cite book|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=Ezw8DgAAQBAJ&q=New+for+the+1998+model+year+was+power+operation+for+the+roadster%27s+convertible+roof.|title=BMW Z3 and Z4: The Complete Story|last=Taylor|first=James|date=2017-03-31|publisher=The Crowood Press|isbn=9781785002779|language=en}}</ref>
* [[Rollover protection structure|Rollover hoops]] introduced.<ref name="roadandtrack_used">{{cite web|url=http://www.roadandtrack.com/car-culture/a10918/used-car-classic-bmw-z3-roadster-coupe/|title=Used Car Classic: BMW Z3 Roadster & Coupe|website=www.roadandtrack.com|date=6 November 2012 |access-date=27 June 2017}}</ref>
* [[Electronic stability control|Automatic stability control]] (ASC) became standard equipment on 1.9 models.<ref>{{Cite book|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=Ezw8DgAAQBAJ&q=At+the+same+time%2C+ASC+++T+traction+control+became+standard+on+the+1.9-litre+models|title=BMW Z3 and Z4: The Complete Story|last=Taylor|first=James|date=2017-03-31|publisher=The Crowood Press|isbn=9781785002779|language=en}}</ref>
* Hardtop shell option for Z3 models introduced.<ref>{{Cite book|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=Ezw8DgAAQBAJ&q=Yet+another+new+option+was+introduced+in+January+1998.+This+was+a+demountable+hardtop|title=BMW Z3 and Z4: The Complete Story|last=Taylor|first=James|date=2017-03-31|publisher=The Crowood Press|isbn=9781785002779|language=en}}</ref>

===1999 facelift===
In April 1999, the [[Facelift (automotive)|facelift]] (LCI) versions of the Z3 began production.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.rac.co.uk/drive/car-reviews/bmw/z3/207836/|title=BMW Z3 (1997 - 2003) used car review |website=www.rac.co.uk|language=en|access-date=13 June 2018}}</ref> Major changes include:
* The ''Z3 2.0'' model was replaced by the ''Z3 2.2i'' and the ''Z3 2.8'' model was replaced by the ''Z3 3.0i'', as the inline-six engines were upgraded from the M52 to the M54 (the addition of the "i" to the model names is not significant, since all engines use electronic fuel injection). In the United States, the ''Z3 2.3'' model was replaced by the ''Z3 2.5''.
* Exterior design changes including redesigned chrome ring headlights and L-shaped taillights, wider rear track by 2.5 in (64mm) (now the same across 4 and 6-cylinder models), model designation badges, finger indent for trunk release button, integrated third brake light (with silver lights on 2.8 and 3.0i models), chrome exhaust tips, and new wheel designs.<ref name="autospeed.com">{{Cite web|url=http://www.autospeed.com/cms/article.html?&A=1486|title=AutoSpeed - New Car Test - BMW Z3 2.2i Roadster|website=www.autospeed.com|access-date=21 February 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180222044159/http://www.autospeed.com/cms/article.html?&A=1486|archive-date=22 February 2018|url-status=dead}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.rac.co.uk/drive/car-reviews/bmw/z3/207836/|title=BMW Z3 (1997 - 2003) used car review |website=www.rac.co.uk|language=en|access-date=21 February 2018}}</ref><ref name=":0">{{Cite book|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=Ezw8DgAAQBAJ&q=also+gained+chromed+exhaust+tips.+The+release+button+for+the+boot+lid+took+on+a+chrome+surround%2C+and+model+badges+appeared+for+the+first+time+next+to+it.|title=BMW Z3 and Z4: The Complete Story|last=Taylor|first=James|date=2017-03-31|publisher=The Crowood Press|isbn=9781785002779|language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.press.bmwgroup.com/canada/article/detail/T0032055EN/the-bmw-z3-roadster:-entering-the-new-millennium-with-a-fresh-new-look?language=en|title=THE BMW Z3 ROADSTER: Entering the new millennium with a fresh, new look|website=www.press.bmwgroup.com|language=en|access-date=2018-02-21}}</ref> The Z3M models did not receive these exterior changes.
* Interior design changes including redesigned centre console buttons with a clock in the middle and a new three-spoke steering wheel design.<ref name=":1">{{Cite news|url=http://www.roadandtrack.com/car-culture/a10918/used-car-classic-bmw-z3-roadster-coupe/|title=Used Car Classic: BMW Z3 Roadster & Coupe|date=2012-11-06|work=Road & Track|access-date=2018-02-21|language=en-US}}</ref>
* Electronic stability control upgraded from ASC to new DSC system.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.autointell.com/News-2002/July-2002/July-2002-4/July-24-02-p10.htm|title=The BMW Z3 roadster makes its mark in film and company history|website=www.autointell.com|access-date=2018-02-21}}</ref>
* New three-layer insulation convertible roof with headlining.<ref name=":1" />
* Dual-stage side airbags introduced.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.realoem.com/bmw/en/showparts?id=CM11-EUR-03-2000-Z3-BMW-Z3_19&diagId=32_1167|title=Z3 E36 Z3 1.9 M Sports steer.-wheel, airbag, leather|website=www.realoem.com|access-date=27 June 2017}}</ref>

===2000===
* DSC now integrated with Dynamic Brake Control (DBC) and Automatic Differential Brake (ADB) functions.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.press.bmwgroup.com/canada/article/detail/T0032440EN/new-bmw-highlights-in-the-year-2001?language=en|title=New BMW Highlights in the year 2001|website=www.press.bmwgroup.com|language=en|access-date=2018-02-21}}</ref>

===2001===
* Z3M models switched from the BMW S50 (Euro spec) and BMW S52 (U.S. spec) inline-six engines to the [[BMW S54]] inline-six engine.

==Production volumes==
One source provides the data below for production figures.<ref name="production">{{cite web|title=Global Z3 production figures|url=http://www.onlyz3.com/en/prod_all.html|website=www.onlyz3.com|access-date=1 July 2017}}</ref> However, there are other sources which provide conflicting information,<ref name="production"/> so actual figures are not certain.
{| class="wikitable sortable" style="text-align: center;"
!Model
!Total
!Roadster
!Coupé
|-
|Z3 1.8
|56,091
|56,091
| rowspan="6" | -
|-
|Z3 1.9i
|77,965
|77,965
|-
|Z3 2.0
|14,616
|14,616
|-
|Z3 2.2i
|21,052
|21,052
|-
|Z3 2.3
|22,282
|22,282
|-
|Z3 2.5
|6,813
|6,813
|-
|Z3 2.8
|58,278
|50,607
|7,671
|-
|Z3 3.0i
|18,378
|14,525
|3,853
|-
|Z3 M
|21,613
|15,322
|6,291
|-
|'''Total:'''
|'''297,088'''
|279,273
|17,815
|}

==Marketing==
The Z3 appeared briefly in the James Bond movie ''[[GoldenEye]]'', in a scene where Bond is driving in [[Cuba]].<ref name="latimes.com">{{cite news |url=https://www.latimes.com/local/obituaries/la-me-karen-sortito-20101215-story.html|title=Karen Sortito dies at 49; marketing exec negotiated product tie-ins to Bond movies| first = Valerie J. | last = Nelson | date = 2010-12-15 | newspaper=Los Angeles Times}}</ref> Bond would eventually trade the car in exchange for Jack Wade's plane. The Z3 is one of only a few non-British production cars to be driven by James Bond throughout the history of the film franchise, and the first of three James Bond films that prominently featured a BMW. This break in tradition was due to a three-film licensing deal between BMW and the James Bond franchise that began with ''GoldenEye'' and ended with ''[[The World Is Not Enough]]''.<ref>{{cite web|title=List of All James Bond Cars - Part 3|url=http://www.007james.com/articles/list_of_james_bond_cars_part_3.php|website=www.007james.com|access-date=29 June 2017}}</ref> The Z3 in GoldenEye features stinger missiles hidden behind the headlights, an emergency parachute braking system, and a radar scanner in the form of a LCD screen in the dashboard.<ref>{{cite web|title=BMW Z3 in Goldeneye|url=http://www.007museum.com/Z3_BMW.htm|website=www.007museum.com|access-date=29 June 2017}}</ref> It is also noted during the briefing scene that the car contains a passenger ejector seat and a self-destruct system, though they aren't used at any point in the film.<ref>{{cite web|title=James Bond's 12 Best Cars|url=http://www.mensjournal.com/expert-advice/james-bonds-12-best-cars-20141210/goldeneye-bmw-z3|website=www.mensjournal.com|access-date=29 June 2017}}</ref> The Z3 is also one of the few vehicles in the Q-Branch that was not destroyed in the field. Fans of the franchise were not enthused with the BMW product placement, all the more so since the Z3 never was given a scene in which to use the weaponry and defense features that have always distinguished a James Bond car. This was ultimately rectified with the [[BMW 7 Series (E38)#In popular culture|BMW 750iL]] in the following film, ''[[Tomorrow Never Dies]]''.

Two blue prototypes were provided in January 1995 for filming at the [[Warner Bros. Studios Leavesden|Leavesden Aerodrome]].<ref>{{cite web|url=https://news.google.com/newspapers?id=F5dQAAAAIBAJ&pg=5196,6409105&dq=bmw+james+bond&hl=en|title=The Milwaukee Sentinel - Google News Archive Search|work=google.com}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.thefreelibrary.com/BMW+RELEASES+FIRST+OFFICIAL+VIDEO+IMAGES+OF+ROADSTER+Satellite+Debut...-a017016051|title=BMW RELEASES FIRST OFFICIAL VIDEO IMAGES OF ROADSTER Satellite Debut for James Bond's New Car|work=thefreelibrary.com}}</ref> The agreement between BMW and [[Eon Productions]] was for cross-promotion of the car and the film, and no money changed hands.<ref>{{cite web|title=BMW Z3|url=http://www.007.info/bmw-z3/|website=www.007.info|access-date=29 June 2017}}</ref>

Sales of the Z3 spiked as the film sat at number one at the box office. The entire 1996 BMW Z3 roadster production run, more than 15,000 roadsters, was sold out by the time the car was introduced.<ref>{{cite web|editor-last=Meier|editor-first=Jeff|title=Home | work = Z3Roadster.com |url=http://www.z3roadster.com/}}</ref>

The Z3 appeared in ''[[The Hire: The Follow|The Follow]]'', one of the BMW films released in 2001.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Bouw |first=Brenda |date=April 26, 2001 |title=Oh, the car is in there somewhere |page=B5 |work=[[National Post]] |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/national-post-oh-the-car-is-in-there-so/131271051/ |via=Newspapers.com}}</ref>

==Awards==
* 1995 "Super Reggie" Best-of-show award for the GoldenEye marketing campaign<ref>{{cite web|title=BMW wins Super Reggie with 'GoldenEye' promo|url=http://adage.com/article/news/bmw-wins-super-reggie-goldeneye-promo/79964/|website=www.adage.com|date=11 March 1996 |access-date=1 July 2017}}</ref>
* 1999 [[Edmunds (company)|''Edmunds'']]' Most Wanted Convertible $25,001-$40,000 for the Z3 2.8<ref>{{cite web|title=1999 Editors' Most Wanted Awards|url=https://www.edmunds.com/car-reviews/1999-editors-most-wanted-awards.html|website=www.edmunds.com|access-date=1 July 2017}}</ref>
* 1999 [[Car and Driver Ten Best|Car and Driver "Ten Best"]] for M Coupé / M Roadster<ref>{{cite web|title=1999 10 Best cars - 1999 BMW M coupe/M roadster|url=http://www.caranddriver.com/features/1999-10best-cars-1999-bmw-m-coupe-m-roadster-page-4|website=www.caranddriver.com|date=January 1999 |access-date=1 July 2017}}</ref>
* 1999 [[Automobile (magazine)|''Automobile Magazine'']] "Design of the Year" award for the M Coupé<ref name="automobile_mag">{{cite web|title=BMW Captures 5 Spots in the 1999 'Automobile Magazine' 'All-Stars' Awards|url=http://www.theautochannel.com/news/press/date/19990106/press002158.html|website=www.theautochannel.com|access-date=1 July 2017}}</ref>
* 1999 [[Automobile (magazine)|''Automobile Magazine'']] "Best Sports Car" award for the M Coupé<ref name="automobile_mag"/>
* 2000 Intellichoice "Best Overall Value of the Year" - "Base Sport" for the Z3 Roadster 2.3<ref>{{cite web|title=Four 2000 BMW Models Recognized for Best Overall Value by Intellichoice|url=http://www.theautochannel.com/news/press/date/20000209/press007583.html|website=www.theautochannel.com|access-date=1 July 2017}}</ref>
* 2000 [[Top Gear (1977 TV series)|''Top Gear'' (TV show)]] "Driver's Car of the Year" for the M Coupé<ref>{{cite AV media|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dqBG4ZQpD_8 |archive-url=https://ghostarchive.org/varchive/youtube/20211221/dqBG4ZQpD_8 |archive-date=2021-12-21 |url-status=live|title=Top Gear 'best drivers car' award winner 2000|date=28 March 2013|website=www.youtube.com}}{{cbignore}}</ref>
* 2009 ''[[Jalopnik]]'' "Best 10 Cars of the Decade" feature for the M Coupé<ref>{{cite web|url=http://jalopnik.com/5426649/jalopniks-best10-cars-of-the-decade/|title=Best10 Cars Of The Decade|website=www.jalopnik.com|date=15 December 2009 |access-date=1 July 2017}}</ref>
* 2011 [[Top Gear (2002 TV series)|''Top Gear'']] "Hammond's Icons" for the M Coupé<ref>{{cite web|title=Hammond driving the icons: BMW Z3M|url=http://www.topgear.com/uk/photos/hammond-icon-z3-2011-10-17?imageNo=1|website=www.topgear.com|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111019125011/http://www.topgear.com/uk/photos/hammond-icon-z3-2011-10-17?imageNo=1|archive-date=19 October 2011}}</ref>

==References==
{{Reflist|30em}}

{{BMW cars: 1980s to 2000s}}
{{Authority control}}

{{DEFAULTSORT:BMW Z3}}
[[Category:BMW vehicles|Z3]]
[[Category:Roadsters]]
[[Category:Rear-wheel-drive vehicles]]
[[Category:2000s cars]]
[[Category:Cars introduced in 1995]]
[[Category:Cars discontinued in 2002]]
[[Category:Motor vehicles manufactured in the United States]]
[[Category:Touring cars]]