Convince me to get a Z3 M roadster

[mikiec]

I’ve been wanting to get a ‘topless’ car for a while, been focused on older 911 targas and suddenly seen a Z3m come up for sale at around 1/3 the price. While not having the cool factor of a 911 the engine/performance makes a big counter argument, as does the price. Interesting to hear from owners of their thoughts & experiences.

Cheers, Mike

[Turbo cab]

Only advice would be if you do pull the plug, make sure you lift up the boot lid carpet and inspect the boot floor pan. make sure the spot welds are in tact and it hasn't been welded up by a third party.

These were notorious for having the boot floor pulled away from the body, I believe the Diff was mounted to this and coupled with a spirited driver it wasn't up to the job. Back in the day mine had a new floor installed by BMW and it still came away again!

Good luck with your search.

[mikiec]

Thanks! Think I’ve got my head around the potential issues with these cars.
It is more whether it’s a car you fall for, a car that you will miss once it’s gone and puts a smile on your face when you’re in it. The car I’m looking at is for sale via auction and I won’t have a chance to drive prior to buying so trying to get a sense of whether it’s good fun.

[Easy_Targa]

I’ve had mine for four years and whilst I agree that the side view is not it’s best, I think this picture shows off it’s big hips and wide rear tyres to good advantage. It’s a good looking car IMHO and they are rare, only 550 on the road now. They don’t rust too badly and the spares availability is excellent.
320 hp twenty years ago was Porsche 911 levels of power and performance. Compared to my everyday M140i it doesn’t feel as fast today, but if you can extend the engine it comes alive into a smooth howling racer between 4.5k and the 7.5k red line. It’s no go cart but cruises superbly and you have air con on most, heated seats, cruise control, headlight wash and a power hood. The boot is even an ok size too.
One review described it as a “hot rod” and that’s alright with me. Just treat it with respect the s50 engines (most) don’t have traction control and if you call for maximum torque and your rear tyres aren’t up to it or the road is greasy it’ll bite you even in the higher gears.
I’ve spent loads on it but it’s never let me down and I look forward to every outing.
I’m in Dartford if you’re local and would like to see one up close.

[mikiec]

Thanks! I’m on the other side of the world but appreciate your offer.

I’ve used the search index and seen numerous comments of ‘modern day Cobra’ & ‘more reliable, less scary TVR’. While not exactly what I’m after it sounds a fun car and something I could easily enjoy for a couple of years. Think I’ll be making some bids on the auction.

[caley64]

https://www.kgfclassiccars.co.uk/details.php?cid=9...

[MNBrennan]

Between me and my partner we have a number of Z3 models - 2.2, 2.8, M Roadster, and the M Coupe (also used to own a 2.0)

They are excellent enjoyable cars. The S50 M models have no traction and should be handled with caution in the wet, although not as scary as some reviews say. Their short wheelbase means that things can happen very quickly but treat it with respect and you'll be fine.

Things to look out for are:

• Noisy / rattly Vanos (about £1k to replace with Mr Vanos)
• Boot floor welds
• Leaking roofs

Other than that they're pretty robust. Rust shouldn't be an issue - the visible sill is just a cover, there can be surface corrosion underneath but the steel is very thick so can usually be dealt with in situ.

At this age you'll benefit from refreshing the suspension and bushes (unless already done). These cars really benefit from a back end refurb - diff, trailing arm and subframe bushes can perish. This is a subframe out job but there is a growing community of 'Zed Sheds' who help people out with their cars at the weekend

One of the best things about these cars is the community. There's quite a big following on all the z3 models with lots of meets and drives. The age range is very broad from about 25 to 80! Have a look at zroadster.org

[citizen smith]

mikiec said:

Thanks! I’m on the other side of the world but appreciate your offer.

I’ve used the search index and seen numerous comments of ‘modern day Cobra’ & ‘more reliable, less scary TVR’. While not exactly what I’m after it sounds a fun car and something I could easily enjoy for a couple of years. Think I’ll be making some bids on the auction.

Way back in the early 2000's, I traded in my TVR Griffith 500 for one of these "M" Roadsters, two reasons mainly 1) Liked the look and was impressed by the Reviews at that time. 2) It had an Electric Roof that did not need man-handling into an awkward boot for storage!

The "M" was only kept for 6 months due to the fact that it lacked the sheer grunt/pace of the Griffith, plus it always felt that you were sitting on the car and not in it as per Griff. Anyhow, I purchased another Griffith and the smiles per miles came back.

TVR's are not unruly, nor unreliable as many people would say. They just need respect and maintenance as the 911's of the early 80's did.

Sorry for a slightly negative view point, but my suggestion would be to visit a dealers and arrange a test drive.