Have my Z3 1.9 now for more then 10 years. Until a few years back I did drive it less and less and I was thinking of selling it. But just, when I tried to sell it, my buddy bought himself a Porsche Boxster and we did an alpine tour to Austria and northern Italy with the two cars. To catch up with the Boxster over the curvy mountain roads I had to rev this thing out, all the time and this was the best driving expierience of my life! The Z3 refuses to understeer and has so much grip on the front axle, so it give you a big confidence in tight corners. We do this trips now every year and I will keep my 1.9, because nothing beats driving a slow car fast!
James Hunt said his favorite car was the family's little Austin van because he could drive the wheels off it. I've just bought a Z3. A run through northern Italy sounds wonderful.
The in-laws had a 1.9 and wanted me to sell it for them. I had zero intention of buying it from them. I took it out a few times and honestly got hooked. Love the backroad driving of MN and WI. Smooth, fun, affordable, and as one of our friends said as she first saw it... "That's a cute little car" That is really spot on.
great vid, mister! i bought a 1996 z3, green with tan interior, less than 100,000 miles on it, owned by rich ladies in vail, colorado, no accidents for a little over 5,000...paid cash out of my tip money, and i've had it a year and a half now and just love it! it's in really great condition (i like your red car too), and all you said in the video i agree with as well. it's not THAT slow being a small and all, and when i'm cruising on I-70 at 75 mph, i hit the gas and it accelerates very nicely without having to downshift to pass trucks at that speed! lots of room inside as you described and very comfortable and FUN to drive! overall, a great buy for the money nowadays! there're quite a few around still for good prices, but they be starting to go up as they are now a 25 yr+ classic! highly recommend this car, and thx again for a very enjoyable vid!
Excellent review !!! I have a 1,996 Z3 1.9 with 69,000km, from the moment I took the wheel and drove it with the top down it became my daily drive car, every day is more fun, going to work, traveling routes on weekends, pure fun!!!!
Best & honest review. I love my 1.9! Reliable and loads of fun. I have over 331,000 k. ( Canada) with no engine or anything issues, no rust and pure fun to drive. Looking forward to the next 300,000 k + .
@@rabidlorax1650 Yeah, bit late now, e46 is gone, i got sick of the breakdowns. Loved the car, though. And it is not purely maintenance or cover. That plastic coolant hub is gonna break in any e46, for instance... But the maintenance could indeed have been better (belts and sorts)
The 1.8’s and 1.9’s are the most reliable choice. The straight 6’s are reliable too, but given the 1.9 is a 4 cylinder, less moving parts = less friction. It’s also MUCH easier to work on a 4 cylinder, then it is a straight 6. You won’t have any problems with the cooling system either.
I too agree. I truly love my '97 1.9 Z3. Purchased it in 2019 as a casual driver for fun. Have had fun spending a bit of money enhancing it, but still trying my best to keep most of the original car. I bought a hard top, replace the soft top, replaced the brakes, and replaced headlights with LED. Just having a ball with it.
@@roymaldonado3308 Now that is a long and complex story. Finding and getting the hardtop was a lengthy and expensive challenge. I live near the coast of California. After scouring the web for several months, and coming close to getting one here in California, but unsuccessful, I found one on eBay located at a private seller 3,000 miles away in New Jersey. It was a different color than my Atlanta Blue Metallic. After haggling with the young seller, I got him to pack it up and place it in motor transport to my BMW service shop here. The transport company would not deliver it to my home. I made all shipping arrangements (which was rather complex) and paid for the shipping. My fingers were crossed that it would arrive undamaged. After several weeks in trucks it did arrive at my BMW shop undamaged. I had the shop’s help putting it on my Z, then dropped it at an auto paint shop to be painted to match my Z. So, I have a great deal invested in getting a hardtop. They are close to impossible to find, at least in the U.S., and not damaged. They are the Holy Grail of BMW Z3 accessories to find, including the mounting hardware. The one thing I did not complete in this installation was hooking up the wiring to the rear window defogger, as I have not located the car wiring for it, but it is not really needed here in California. And I do not drive my Z during rain or on wet roads, to help reduce leakage, as well as the undercarriage of the Z is in pristine original new condition, so don’t want to mess it up. Sorry, but a hardtop is FAR from being eazzy-peezy to obtain. If you find one, you might have to either drive your Z to pick it up, or take a truck to get it. As I recall it is about 57 inches wide. It weighs approx 75 pounds and is fiberglass. Good luck. 😟
@@walterreil4001I have a hardtop and it’s either 40 or 50 some lbs. it’s not the best idea but I can take it on or off by myself. Had to ship it to Hawaii from the Netherlands. Took over a year to find one and arrived 4 months after the delivery date, and that’s skipping the drama. The smart thing I did was make them put a cover on it and place a cart for it in the crate. That was my best idea of the whole ordeal.
I had a 1998 Z3 1.9 20 years ago and I loved it. Got a 2021 MX-5 now. Brilliant little 1.5 litre car. If it's not raining the roof is open day or night,amazes me how often you see people driving roof closed.
We are original owners of a 98 1.9, 107k miles. Love the distinctive purr that it has, and the Atlantau blue still shines. It isnt the fastest, but it is still way cooler than alot of the loud brute bromobiles out there.
Once upon a time my garage included a 1985 735i 5-speed and a 1996 318ti Sport with that 1.9. both were great fun to drive, I loved the revviness of the 1.9.
Interesting. I started of with a 1.8, then a 2.8, and then a M-roadster. Now I’m back in a 1.8. It makes me keep my licence. It is not fast but nimble and a fantastic ride. Comfy and gorgeous. Enjoyed the review.
I just bought a 97 1.9 Z3. I didn't know much about them, just wanted a sports car. The more I learn about them the more I like it. Thanks for your review.
Great review. I really like my z3 1.9L. Owned it 2 months now and like you say not quick but not slow, great to drive. Always puts a smile on your face. Even the exhaust note is nice enough
Mate, came to this late, but your honest talk along is perfect and answers questions. I’m not a hoon so thinking 1.9 is an option. Cheers man from Aus.
I just bought one and I just moved to england 🇬🇧 n I'm actually from New England. I got a blue roadster 1.9, and it came with a catback and a cool low pros with 20 inch offset rims cool air intake. So, in regards to the over rev with the purr, it's perfect for these small tight roads and roundabouts .I have lowering springs on it with holigen lights, and when you cant really speed here like America, which sucks at times due to ccvtv systems on certain roads, but to go with the over rev makes the statement of I'm not gonna break the law do I'm in the clear .A lot of people walk here, and there are other car enthusiasts but they are young minded with egotistical issues that have to go 60 down my road which is only 15 mph whatever that is in km but we use mph here too .I been here only a month and a half, and shifting on the left is not bad .It took me a week or two to understand it as my brain had to drive on the opposite side of the road .But all in all, you're right. The 1.9 z3 roadster is a cool car hooked up .The parts are cheap, and I got mine for£ 2,200 beans .They are cheaper here, and if you all wanna see the best bmw's and best prices, that America price gouges these cars at you will get sick ..I had a chance to buy the z4 2008 for same price with 150 thousand miles on it buy this one was slower but the swag it had I got the 1.9 as I still am getting use to the left ..All I can say if you all wanna come to england just make sure you stay on the left or you will have nothing left . Good video
I'm currently looking at a 1997 1.9 Z3 (it's how I ended up seeing your review). Thank you so much for this great review!! Having owned 5.0 Mustangs and Ducati motorcycles in the past, I'm over the speed factor at this stage of my life. So, I'm sold. Now I only need for the person selling the one I'm looking at to negotiate with me.
My daughter bought a 1996 BMW Z3 1.9L with 42k miles black with tan interior for $5k and I loved it so much I had to get one. I picked up a 1996 BMW Z3 1.9L with 51k miles silver with the black and red interior. I love this car!
One of the most honest review of a car totally unscripted. I'm also 6ft. 2inchs and have been looking for a sports car that is fun. I owned a MINI JCW CLUBMAN before and found it very fun. Thanks.
Thinking of selling my miata and this might be the one I get ,oh and coasting in neutral is about the worst thing you can do to a manual box ,if the cars moving it should be in gear, great video. Cheers from New Zealand 🇳🇿
I am an orig owner of a 97 z3 with a wind breaker, I drive in the Great white north -25 C, top down, no cold wind could come in. Also I drove top down during the rain, as long as I kept 50 km/hr, not a drop came in. BUT WITH A WIND BREAKER.
Beautiful cars. Good fun to drive, comfortable and well balanced chassis, even with M-technic suspension. Easy & cheap to maintain. 6 cylinder M54 engines are an absolute peach 🍑♥️
I have a 1.9 Z3, have had for years. I have the James Bond color combo, pretty cool. Everyday driver. Drove from east coast to Rockies before covid. No problem maintaining left lane traffic with high revs in 5th. It will go for hours doing that. For the money, the 1.9 Z3 can’t be beat.
A Great fix for the plastics is silicone-oil, makes it fresh again, my 96 is silent now. I completly stripped the interiour for cleaning and applied silicon oil to everthing. The cleaning aftherworks is a bit of a struggle as you need to wipe everything after letting it soak in.
I used to have a E46 with the 1.9 engine. It was pretty fast, if it was not standing at the side of the road, which happened SIX times with my car in a couple of years owning it. Got sick of it, so bought 2 cars; a borning Toyota Verso and a NB Miata, which in my eyes is better than the BMW, as it does not break down, is more direct and fun and for the rest pretty equal. But your hailstorm comment is on spot. A Miata does feel scary sometimes in bad weather and lots of high cars around. I drove a Z3 through the mountains and it does feel more like a safe car, between the ears
What country was your E46 in, and what year was it? The Miatas are more balanced through a slalom type road, they drive more neutrally, and possibly quicker. The rear suspension of the Z3 is not as planted, shifts a little at the apex. But my six cylinder Z3's would outrun an NA or NB up a mountain road. But I don't think the Z3's are a match for the Miatas on level ground, or at an autocross.
Have a 98 with 58 K on the clock I got from a dealer way back when it was 2 years old with about 15k on it have loved it ever since . keep it garaged in the winter. It has never given me a bit of trouble. drives great and is simply a fun car
Great video!! Ive been very much looking forward to own a used z3. Ive found some with average 60k miles automatic. Can you tell me if i am getting into to much trouble in terms of maintenance and repairs? Is it fairly reliable or nightmare? Thanks
M44 DOHC is a brilliant little engine that will take some punishment.Just make sure you change the oil and filter every 6000 miles using the oil specified in the owners manual.The wheels you have look like the same 16' as mine which are made in Italy.Nice car!
Clean car! The best 1.9 to get, is the early 97. The late 97, has too many smog pipes in the engine compartment. My nephew and I have California 97s and his is the late model with the check engine light on. We haven't been able to figure it out because of all the extra smog shit. Enjoy your rides!
In your defence, it's not the slow one. The 1.9 released from 2000 which went down to 8 valves and the HP went down from 140 to 117 was the slow one :)
I rented the 1.9 when it first came out and it was a lot of fun! It had a lot of top end. Too bad the serpentine belt broke on the second day and ruined my rental.
Hi, is the 1999 1.9 the model with not so good seats? Looking at one now but never been in one. I am after a cheaper fun car if you know waht I mean. ATM I only drive a prius because I work 39 miles away so needed something cheap and reliable. Inwant something fun but cheap.
seen one locally to me in the UK for $1700 with 110k miles on the clock.. think you've made up my mind to buy it. Also I am impressed the red colour paint has not faded on your one after 23 years!
That is a lot of car for very little money. Depending where you are that would be high up on my list as a B road cruiser. Motorcycles being #1 of course...
@@jimdieselsgarage yeah I've had 2 MX5's and whilst they are fun, As a motorway car or even about town with the amount of potholes we have and the lowered Bilstein suspension on the last model I had, they are very uncomfortable. Its also impossible to find a good cheap one now, they have doubled in price. I might of liked the 2.8 Z3 model better than the 1.9, but they cost around 7k dollars in the UK so a little too much for me.
1.9 liter is more then enough for such a small and light car. I mean thats not bad at all. I have a Civic EJ9 with 1.4. engine and its still fun to drive. Of course more is better.. but its fine. And u can have a ton of fun without without having to fear to get expensive tickets. :D
Depending on the date code I mite have welded that body to geather back in 97'. I started at the Spartanburg plant in January of 97'. Still there getting ready to retire next year or ?
@@kwstasxen9587 No I sold that one a while ago. They have better bolsters and better material. You can tell the difference easy, just look up a newer model.
How is the reliability with that 1.9 liter Z3? Any common issues that occur with these cars? I am considering getting a 1998 with the 1.9 and manual transmission.
Seems to me just about everything BMW from that era either leaks or burns oil. This one has 155k on it and burns and/or leaks a quart between oil changes. Not bad. Not much else to go wrong with it.
when you say you had two previous Z3's and 'they went by the way side'. What do you mean by that? did you just get bored with them, or did you neglect maintenance and drive them into the ground?
I have serious car ADD. I bought a 2.3 or 2.5, can't remember, then wanted the full monty... so I sold it for an M Roadster. Then I got bored of that and sold it for god knows what. But I love these cars. If I had a warehouse like Jay Leno I would keep them all. I am passively looking for another 1.9 or clown shoe, but I also just picked up an 02 WS6 that is my focus at the moment.
do you know how many kilometres the motor lasts on the 2.8 litre Z3? Ive seen some say 200,000 klms. there's one for sale which has 196,000 on the clock and I'm wondering if I'll be up for engine replacement
Earlier this year I bought a '97 1.9, which had been extremely well maintained and only 60k miles. I've had tons of fun driving it. Just as you stated, I can comfortably cruise for 15 minutes or half a day drive out of the city, or take it on a curvy road and have fun pushing all the way through the gears. (I wouldn't buy a 1.9 with an automatic transmission unless the styling of the car and cruising were the only considerations.) I also have a much newer 300+ horsepower BMW and can barely press the gas pedal and still drive legally. My first cars in the 1990s and early 2000s included a stick shift 4 cylinder Mazda and a Volkswagen that both drove like go-karts pushing the RPMs through the gears. The 1.9 Z3 reminds me of that driving experience, plus it has better styling, including that 90s interior! So, I agree with everything you said.....except the conclusion that one should absolutely 'upgrade' if one can afford it. I could have bought any of the Z3s and chose to go with the 1.9.
If it's your only car I think the upgrade is worth it. I have an e46 M3 I still have to review so I didn't care about the lack of oomph from the 1.9. In fact I enjoyed it for exactly that reason, you can rev through the gears without worry about too much trouble from the law. I'm breaking the 45mph speed limits around me in second in the M3.
I know some people daily drive them, so I can see that need/desire for something more powerful. I've only driven mine on the interstate once, and it actually surprised me in a good way. Ninety percent of the time, I'm driving mine on roads with 45 mph speed limits or less.
i really enjoyed your review! i want a cheaper second sunny day car that will be actual fun blasting backroads and ive heavily considered the z3 for over a week now. although i think my heart has set itself on an s2000. that price difference is large though.
@@jimdieselsgarage The 2.4l can be had for 4-5k but also can peak into the 12k's The Red Line which is the 2.0 turbo is around 7-20K.... you should review the sky/sol car if you get the chance it's a fun car imo
Picking up a z3 soon. Loved this video but have to disagree about the Miata. I love my Miata and think it’s a great weekend car. Even as a daily it’s quite enjoyable. Thank you for this review though I think this helped me make my decision
Awesome! I love the Z3. I sold that one at the end of the summer for fear of chipmunk infestation in winter but I might have to get yet another one before the price skyrockets on them. This would be my fourth…
@@jimdieselsgarage Whaaat? You sold the HellRot? Their prices haven't skyrocketed, but they're climbing steadily. I bought a 1.9 on Christmas day 2020 for $1,200, it needs a paint job and a top plus a tune up. Can't find one under $2,000 now, and many over $4,000.
The car market is really weird these days. What you could buy for $3k 5 years ago now costs $10k. With that said the z3 hasn't quite suffered that fate. There are people out there asking teens for 100k+ mile i6's because they see what other stuff is selling for, but I don't think they're getting it. I wouldn't pay more than 5 for a good 1.9, or more then 10 for a good i6. You should be able to get your money back out at those prices. And by good I mean no leaks, no rust, and maintenance history with it.
@@jimdieselsgarage i've got a BMW dealer asking 12.5 OTD for one with 45k miles on it and it looks mint. 2.3 i6 manual. I figure dealer is always going to inflate the price, but I could probably get it for 12k. No mods.
@@codmott286 My view; if a dealer is asking that somebody near you will sell you one in the same condition for less money... And ideally with maintenance records, which dealers never have.
@@codmott286 I agree with Jim's response. Just wanted to add that the Z3 2.3 is a 2.5L engine. Don't know why BMW used that badge, although I've heard reasons.
i'm 6'2'' also and have been looking at miatas for awhile... i started thinking randomly about this car. i just remembered it out of nowhere. From what i hear, the Miata is insanely cramped for tall people.. Looks like this might be on my list someday. I've always wanted a RWD roadster type car with good handling. You did a good job talking about this car and where it's at in 2021. I agree with you, it's kind of a slept on car people forgot about. I feel like the parts might be really expensive for it, i'll have to research, I always loved the 90s japanes cars, they used to be cheap and the maintenence on em was unbeatable, but now their reputation has driven the market so crazy, along with the chip shortage that something like this is an actual legit alternative. but this car is kind of a good value for what you get. Also i don't mind the 4 cylinder model, i'll never use the power anyway. Less cylinders to missfire. I just wanna cruise and get around comfortably in a car that's fun to drive.
For me a Miata is a tool for a track and nothing more. I owned an NA and literally never wanted to just cruise around in it like I do a Z3. There are mods you can do to an NA to make them tall-man capable, but even still the Z3 will fit you better. On top of that though, the Z3 just feels more special to me. It looks better... by a lot, drives better (in my opinion), and generally feels like a much more quality product then a Miata. And you can get one for $5k, which these days is unheard of for anything else.
I'm 6'3, and don't feel too tall for my z3 at all. I don't know where people are finding well maintained/documented/low mile examples for 5k in today's used car market, but you can definitely get one for under 10k after taxes, etc.. For cruising around comfortably with the top down, and then some fun on twisty roads, it's a great choice.
@@jbrian53 you can get a with a lot of miles but very well maintained for $5,000 easily. I think with this old of cars, the condition is a lot more important than the mileage.
you got the wrong one im afraid. if you had got one of the 2.2l and up straight 6 they are highly tuneable and are rapid to drive I have the 2.8l straight 6 myself and its a beast
@@jimdieselsgarage nice, I don’t think I’m prepared to dive into an EV project/used vehicle yet, but for now I’m just finishing up my ‘96 z3 and about to get started on an E34 Touring, keep us posted.
@@Heretic_Wolf EV's make killer commuter cars, especially the old Model S. Long distance... not so much, obviously. Every sucker you see cruising along in the right lane with an EV plate has done the math and come to the sad conclusion that cruising along at 80 for 200 miles like everyone else just makes the trip take longer overall. But if you're a geek like me, its super cool tech.
Have my Z3 1.9 now for more then 10 years. Until a few years back I did drive it less and less and I was thinking of selling it. But just, when I tried to sell it, my buddy bought himself a Porsche Boxster and we did an alpine tour to Austria and northern Italy with the two cars. To catch up with the Boxster over the curvy mountain roads I had to rev this thing out, all the time and this was the best driving expierience of my life! The Z3 refuses to understeer and has so much grip on the front axle, so it give you a big confidence in tight corners. We do this trips now every year and I will keep my 1.9, because nothing beats driving a slow car fast!
James Hunt said his favorite car was the family's little Austin van because he could drive the wheels off it. I've just bought a Z3. A run through northern Italy sounds wonderful.
The in-laws had a 1.9 and wanted me to sell it for them. I had zero intention of buying it from them. I took it out a few times and honestly got hooked. Love the backroad driving of MN and WI. Smooth, fun, affordable, and as one of our friends said as she first saw it... "That's a cute little car" That is really spot on.
This video actually help me decide on buying the 1.9. I now have a excellent 1998 1.9 that runs perfect. thanks for the great review.
A friend of mine said that the Z3 1.9 is like an executive Miata, I think he described it perfectly.
great vid, mister! i bought a 1996 z3, green with tan interior, less than 100,000 miles on it, owned by rich ladies in vail, colorado, no accidents for a little over 5,000...paid cash out of my tip money, and i've had it a year and a half now and just love it! it's in really great condition (i like your red car too), and all you said in the video i agree with as well. it's not THAT slow being a small and all, and when i'm cruising on I-70 at 75 mph, i hit the gas and it accelerates very nicely without having to downshift to pass trucks at that speed! lots of room inside as you described and very comfortable and FUN to drive! overall, a great buy for the money nowadays! there're quite a few around still for good prices, but they be starting to go up as they are now a 25 yr+ classic! highly recommend this car, and thx again for a very enjoyable vid!
Great review. Honest and i agree with everything you stated. Proud owner of a 1.9 James bond set up 1998. Love it. Very fun to drive...
Excellent review !!! I have a 1,996 Z3 1.9 with 69,000km, from the moment I took the wheel and drove it with the top down it became my daily drive car, every day is more fun, going to work, traveling routes on weekends, pure fun!!!!
Best & honest review. I love my 1.9! Reliable and loads of fun. I have over 331,000 k. ( Canada) with no engine or anything issues, no rust and pure fun to drive. Looking forward to the next 300,000 k + .
The same engine broke down SIX times in my E46....
@@jaspervos4345 you need a cover for it and to make sure to do maintenance as soon as you notice any issues.
@@rabidlorax1650 Yeah, bit late now, e46 is gone, i got sick of the breakdowns. Loved the car, though. And it is not purely maintenance or cover. That plastic coolant hub is gonna break in any e46, for instance... But the maintenance could indeed have been better (belts and sorts)
@@jaspervos4345 I've never seen a 1.9 in an E46 in the US. Where was your E46 1.9?
The 1.8’s and 1.9’s are the most reliable choice. The straight 6’s are reliable too, but given the 1.9 is a 4 cylinder, less moving parts = less friction. It’s also MUCH easier to work on a 4 cylinder, then it is a straight 6. You won’t have any problems with the cooling system either.
Forget statistics proving otherwise, bottom line: less cylinders, more reliable. Bahaha
This is the only reliable engine BMW made during this time. This car is cheap, good fun.
I love my 1.9. So fun to drive and the gear ratios are a great match for this engine . Much more fun than my much faster e36 and Porsches
Agreed .. I swear it feels faster then my E46 M3.
@@jimdieselsgarage How in hell ? lol
I too agree. I truly love my '97 1.9 Z3. Purchased it in 2019 as a casual driver for fun. Have had fun spending a bit of money enhancing it, but still trying my best to keep most of the original car. I bought a hard top, replace the soft top, replaced the brakes, and replaced headlights with LED. Just having a ball with it.
Where did you pick up the hard top?
@@roymaldonado3308 Now that is a long and complex story. Finding and getting the hardtop was a lengthy and expensive challenge. I live near the coast of California. After scouring the web for several months, and coming close to getting one here in California, but unsuccessful, I found one on eBay located at a private seller 3,000 miles away in New Jersey. It was a different color than my Atlanta Blue Metallic. After haggling with the young seller, I got him to pack it up and place it in motor transport to my BMW service shop here. The transport company would not deliver it to my home. I made all shipping arrangements (which was rather complex) and paid for the shipping. My fingers were crossed that it would arrive undamaged. After several weeks in trucks it did arrive at my BMW shop undamaged. I had the shop’s help putting it on my Z, then dropped it at an auto paint shop to be painted to match my Z. So, I have a great deal invested in getting a hardtop. They are close to impossible to find, at least in the U.S., and not damaged. They are the Holy Grail of BMW Z3 accessories to find, including the mounting hardware. The one thing I did not complete in this installation was hooking up the wiring to the rear window defogger, as I have not located the car wiring for it, but it is not really needed here in California. And I do not drive my Z during rain or on wet roads, to help reduce leakage, as well as the undercarriage of the Z is in pristine original new condition, so don’t want to mess it up. Sorry, but a hardtop is FAR from being eazzy-peezy to obtain. If you find one, you might have to either drive your Z to pick it up, or take a truck to get it. As I recall it is about 57 inches wide. It weighs approx 75 pounds and is fiberglass. Good luck. 😟
@@walterreil4001I have a hardtop and it’s either 40 or 50 some lbs. it’s not the best idea but I can take it on or off by myself. Had to ship it to Hawaii from the Netherlands. Took over a year to find one and arrived 4 months after the delivery date, and that’s skipping the drama. The smart thing I did was make them put a cover on it and place a cart for it in the crate. That was my best idea of the whole ordeal.
I had a 1998 Z3 1.9 20 years ago and I loved it.
Got a 2021 MX-5 now. Brilliant little 1.5 litre car. If it's not raining the roof is open day or night,amazes me how often you see people driving roof closed.
We are original owners of a 98 1.9, 107k miles. Love the distinctive purr that it has, and the Atlantau blue still shines. It isnt the fastest, but it is still way cooler than alot of the loud brute bromobiles out there.
I just bought a 97 1.9 with 80k miles in Atlanta blue. I love it!
Once upon a time my garage included a 1985 735i 5-speed and a 1996 318ti Sport with that 1.9. both were great fun to drive, I loved the revviness of the 1.9.
Interesting. I started of with a 1.8, then a 2.8, and then a M-roadster. Now I’m back in a 1.8. It makes me keep my licence. It is not fast but nimble and a fantastic ride. Comfy and gorgeous. Enjoyed the review.
I Just bought one, '97, 1.9L. I think/hope I got a good one. Your video helped me decide to pull the trigger. Thank you.
I just bought a 97 1.9 Z3. I didn't know much about them, just wanted a sports car. The more I learn about them the more I like it. Thanks for your review.
Great review. I really like my z3 1.9L. Owned it 2 months now and like you say not quick but not slow, great to drive. Always puts a smile on your face. Even the exhaust note is nice enough
Agreed! Really fun car with that motor, and probably the best looking without the ridiculous flared wheel arches.
Mate, came to this late, but your honest talk along is perfect and answers questions. I’m not a hoon so thinking 1.9 is an option. Cheers man from Aus.
It's a fun car, you have my blessing.
I just bought one and I just moved to england 🇬🇧 n I'm actually from New England. I got a blue roadster 1.9, and it came with a catback and a cool low pros with 20 inch offset rims cool air intake. So, in regards to the over rev with the purr, it's perfect for these small tight roads and roundabouts .I have lowering springs on it with holigen lights, and when you cant really speed here like America, which sucks at times due to ccvtv systems on certain roads, but to go with the over rev makes the statement of I'm not gonna break the law do I'm in the clear .A lot of people walk here, and there are other car enthusiasts but they are young minded with egotistical issues that have to go 60 down my road which is only 15 mph whatever that is in km but we use mph here too .I been here only a month and a half, and shifting on the left is not bad .It took me a week or two to understand it as my brain had to drive on the opposite side of the road .But all in all, you're right. The 1.9 z3 roadster is a cool car hooked up .The parts are cheap, and I got mine for£ 2,200 beans .They are cheaper here, and if you all wanna see the best bmw's and best prices, that America price gouges these cars at you will get sick ..I had a chance to buy the z4 2008 for same price with 150 thousand miles on it buy this one was slower but the swag it had I got the 1.9 as I still am getting use to the left ..All I can say if you all wanna come to england just make sure you stay on the left or you will have nothing left .
Good video
How is the z3? I live in England and am looking at the 1.9.
I'm currently looking at a 1997 1.9 Z3 (it's how I ended up seeing your review). Thank you so much for this great review!! Having owned 5.0 Mustangs and Ducati motorcycles in the past, I'm over the speed factor at this stage of my life. So, I'm sold. Now I only need for the person selling the one I'm looking at to negotiate with me.
I have just restored a z3 I had most things powder coated going be mint once finished
It’s slow 0-60 but From 80mph to 120 it actually has a punch. And it handles sharp turns with confidence.
My daughter bought a 1996 BMW Z3 1.9L with 42k miles black with tan interior for $5k and I loved it so much I had to get one. I picked up a 1996 BMW Z3 1.9L with 51k miles silver with the black and red interior. I love this car!
One of the most honest review of a car totally unscripted. I'm also 6ft. 2inchs and have been looking for a sports car that is fun. I owned a MINI JCW CLUBMAN before and found it very fun. Thanks.
Solid review and much appreciated. I have 97 as well found it 2 years ago its my daily driver in season.
Yep, I've been saying this for years. Bought a 1.9 in 1996 when I was 30. Still my favorite car even though I also own a 2000 mcoupe.
Thinking of selling my miata and this might be the one I get ,oh and coasting in neutral is about the worst thing you can do to a manual box ,if the cars moving it should be in gear, great video. Cheers from New Zealand 🇳🇿
Love these cars man. Very different from a Miata, much more refined.
Have my 97 Z3 with the 1.9. Just hit 37k miles. Such a fun weekend car.
This angle is so amazing. Great review man, love the fact that you are doing it while driving. Awesome.
i love these cars man i had my eyes on it ever since i was 10 and my cousins dad had a z4 these are sick
I was in a Z Club for a while, the guys with 1.9's kept up with no problems, even on multiple day road trips.
I am an orig owner of a 97 z3 with a wind breaker, I drive in the Great white north -25 C, top down, no cold wind could come in. Also I drove top down during the rain, as long as I kept 50 km/hr, not a drop came in. BUT WITH A WIND BREAKER.
Great video! Love the 1.9s, onto our second one now! They are great little cars and they're great on track as well with a little bit of work.
How about a 1.9 E46? Do they have the same fun factor as the 1.9 Z3?
I’ve had one for about 10yrs. 98’ I love cruising in it.
Beautiful cars. Good fun to drive, comfortable and well balanced chassis, even with M-technic suspension. Easy & cheap to maintain. 6 cylinder M54 engines are an absolute peach 🍑♥️
I have a 1.9 Z3, have had for years. I have the James Bond color combo, pretty cool.
Everyday driver. Drove from east coast to Rockies before covid. No problem maintaining left lane traffic with high revs in 5th. It will go for hours doing that. For the money, the 1.9 Z3 can’t be beat.
Yep. I found cruising speed around 75. Any more and the revs and mpg are just too much. But 75 she's nice.
@@jimdieselsgarage I literally just got back from buying my car and driving it 2 hours back home. I wish there was a 6th gear lol
@@praisethelord8750 It definitely needs a 6th for highway travel. I seem to remember being at something like 4K rpm over 75.
@@praisethelord8750 BMW stated that there wasn't enough room for a six speed in the Z3, so not even the M Roadsters got a six speed. Z4 did get it.
A Great fix for the plastics is silicone-oil, makes it fresh again, my 96 is silent now.
I completly stripped the interiour for cleaning and applied silicon oil to everthing. The cleaning aftherworks is a bit of a struggle as you need to wipe everything after letting it soak in.
I used to have a E46 with the 1.9 engine. It was pretty fast, if it was not standing at the side of the road, which happened SIX times with my car in a couple of years owning it. Got sick of it, so bought 2 cars; a borning Toyota Verso and a NB Miata, which in my eyes is better than the BMW, as it does not break down, is more direct and fun and for the rest pretty equal. But your hailstorm comment is on spot. A Miata does feel scary sometimes in bad weather and lots of high cars around. I drove a Z3 through the mountains and it does feel more like a safe car, between the ears
What country was your E46 in, and what year was it? The Miatas are more balanced through a slalom type road, they drive more neutrally, and possibly quicker. The rear suspension of the Z3 is not as planted, shifts a little at the apex. But my six cylinder Z3's would outrun an NA or NB up a mountain road. But I don't think the Z3's are a match for the Miatas on level ground, or at an autocross.
@@papatorr3669 I had a German E46, from 2000. And live in The Netherlands.
Love it!! I just picked up a 1997 1.9l manual with 80k! This review greatly helped my decision!
Glad to hear that. I love these cars.
'06 Z4 3.0si manual is the ultimate drive!
Have a 98 with 58 K on the clock I got from a dealer way back when it was 2 years old with about 15k on it have loved it ever since . keep it garaged in the winter. It has never given me a bit of trouble. drives great and is simply a fun car
How has your car been mechanically and how are the 1.9's in general? Can't seem to find much info on them...
Great video!! Ive been very much looking forward to own a used z3. Ive found some with average 60k miles automatic.
Can you tell me if i am getting into to much trouble in terms of maintenance and repairs? Is it fairly reliable or nightmare? Thanks
M44 DOHC is a brilliant little engine that will take some punishment.Just make sure you change the oil and filter every 6000 miles using the oil specified in the owners manual.The wheels you have look like the same 16' as mine which are made in Italy.Nice car!
Love my Topaz blue 2000 Z3! Honest review thanks! Husband 6'7" fits just fine (with top down 😄).
Wanna race me?
@@tonykartracer8032 Name the time and place buddy 😆
The Topaz Blue is a beautiful color, also had an '00 in Topaz 2.5L Auto. Which engine transmission do you guys have?
@@papatorr3669 I have automatic
Paid 2.2k usd for a 2.5l 2000 z3 with 170k miles. Its a good looking car, driving with the top down is really fun and the engine sound is glorious.
Yep, that's what a lot of them should still go for but like everything the prices doubled.
Just picked up a 2001 2.5L for $4k w 145k miles. Was the cheapest in my region by several grand 😮
Super beautiful in red (not feminine at all). Blue is good too of course.
It’s much more fun to ride fast with a slow car than riding slow with a fast car ! 😀
Clean car! The best 1.9 to get, is the early 97. The late 97, has too many smog pipes in the engine compartment. My nephew and I have California 97s and his is the late model with the check engine light on. We haven't been able to figure it out because of all the extra smog shit. Enjoy your rides!
16v ? Have the m44 1.9l 318i manual e36 such a fun smooth daily and enough power around town w good mpg
In your defence, it's not the slow one. The 1.9 released from 2000 which went down to 8 valves and the HP went down from 140 to 117 was the slow one :)
Totally agree with all your thoughts!
I rented the 1.9 when it first came out and it was a lot of fun! It had a lot of top end. Too bad the serpentine belt broke on the second day and ruined my rental.
Hi, is the 1999 1.9 the model with not so good seats? Looking at one now but never been in one. I am after a cheaper fun car if you know waht I mean.
ATM I only drive a prius because I work 39 miles away so needed something cheap and reliable. Inwant something fun but cheap.
seen one locally to me in the UK for $1700 with 110k miles on the clock.. think you've made up my mind to buy it. Also I am impressed the red colour paint has not faded on your one after 23 years!
That is a lot of car for very little money. Depending where you are that would be high up on my list as a B road cruiser. Motorcycles being #1 of course...
@@jimdieselsgarage yeah I've had 2 MX5's and whilst they are fun, As a motorway car or even about town with the amount of potholes we have and the lowered Bilstein suspension on the last model I had, they are very uncomfortable. Its also impossible to find a good cheap one now, they have doubled in price. I might of liked the 2.8 Z3 model better than the 1.9, but they cost around 7k dollars in the UK so a little too much for me.
@@Daniel-bv2wc The build as a grand tourer on the z3 is no comparison to the Miata. You can live with a z3 just fine.
Where can you find a fuel cap for this 1997 BMW can't find one anywhere.
I had a 2001 silver...how much did you pay?.....I miss it...😪
Paid 5k for that one. Seems those days are over now.
Found red one for 7K 🤷♀️
Still thinking....
1.9 liter is more then enough for such a small and light car. I mean thats not bad at all. I have a Civic EJ9 with 1.4. engine and its still fun to drive. Of course more is better.. but its fine.
And u can have a ton of fun without without having to fear to get expensive tickets. :D
Depending on the date code I mite have welded that body to geather back in 97'. I started at the Spartanburg plant in January of 97'. Still there getting ready to retire next year or ?
10/96. Just missed you.
I am 6ft2 and i'm thinking of buying one of those..are you sure that you are fine with the space or is it a bit tight?
I fit great. Try and get the newer style seats, the old ones are terrible.
@@jimdieselsgarage the new style is the ones you got on?
@@kwstasxen9587 No I sold that one a while ago. They have better bolsters and better material. You can tell the difference easy, just look up a newer model.
@@jimdieselsgarage ok dude thank you very much
How is the reliability with that 1.9 liter Z3? Any common issues that occur with these cars? I am considering getting a 1998 with the 1.9 and manual transmission.
Seems to me just about everything BMW from that era either leaks or burns oil. This one has 155k on it and burns and/or leaks a quart between oil changes. Not bad. Not much else to go wrong with it.
Okay, where did the cup holders come from???
when you say you had two previous Z3's and 'they went by the way side'. What do you mean by that? did you just get bored with them, or did you neglect maintenance and drive them into the ground?
I have serious car ADD. I bought a 2.3 or 2.5, can't remember, then wanted the full monty... so I sold it for an M Roadster. Then I got bored of that and sold it for god knows what. But I love these cars. If I had a warehouse like Jay Leno I would keep them all. I am passively looking for another 1.9 or clown shoe, but I also just picked up an 02 WS6 that is my focus at the moment.
Nice 300ZX in the background! Is it all original?
It is! Uploading a review of it as we speak.
I absolutely agree 👍👍👍 I love mine z3 1.9 litre 😍 hello from Kazakhstan 🇰🇿 👋
do you know how many kilometres the motor lasts on the 2.8 litre Z3? Ive seen some say 200,000 klms. there's one for sale which has 196,000 on the clock and I'm wondering if I'll be up for engine replacement
Earlier this year I bought a '97 1.9, which had been extremely well maintained and only 60k miles. I've had tons of fun driving it. Just as you stated, I can comfortably cruise for 15 minutes or half a day drive out of the city, or take it on a curvy road and have fun pushing all the way through the gears. (I wouldn't buy a 1.9 with an automatic transmission unless the styling of the car and cruising were the only considerations.) I also have a much newer 300+ horsepower BMW and can barely press the gas pedal and still drive legally. My first cars in the 1990s and early 2000s included a stick shift 4 cylinder Mazda and a Volkswagen that both drove like go-karts pushing the RPMs through the gears. The 1.9 Z3 reminds me of that driving experience, plus it has better styling, including that 90s interior! So, I agree with everything you said.....except the conclusion that one should absolutely 'upgrade' if one can afford it. I could have bought any of the Z3s and chose to go with the 1.9.
If it's your only car I think the upgrade is worth it. I have an e46 M3 I still have to review so I didn't care about the lack of oomph from the 1.9. In fact I enjoyed it for exactly that reason, you can rev through the gears without worry about too much trouble from the law. I'm breaking the 45mph speed limits around me in second in the M3.
I know some people daily drive them, so I can see that need/desire for something more powerful. I've only driven mine on the interstate once, and it actually surprised me in a good way. Ninety percent of the time, I'm driving mine on roads with 45 mph speed limits or less.
z3 is great
I enjoyed your review.
i really enjoyed your review! i want a cheaper second sunny day car that will be actual fun blasting backroads and ive heavily considered the z3 for over a week now. although i think my heart has set itself on an s2000. that price difference is large though.
how didn't you mention the sky/sol 2.4 NA???
Good point, I've never driven either. From what I remember they're in the teens though cost wise, not sub-10k like the z3.
@@jimdieselsgarage The 2.4l can be had for 4-5k but also can peak into the 12k's
The Red Line which is the 2.0 turbo is around 7-20K.... you should review the sky/sol car if you get the chance it's a fun car imo
Picking up a z3 soon. Loved this video but have to disagree about the Miata. I love my Miata and think it’s a great weekend car. Even as a daily it’s quite enjoyable. Thank you for this review though I think this helped me make my decision
Awesome! I love the Z3. I sold that one at the end of the summer for fear of chipmunk infestation in winter but I might have to get yet another one before the price skyrockets on them. This would be my fourth…
@@jimdieselsgarage Whaaat? You sold the HellRot? Their prices haven't skyrocketed, but they're climbing steadily. I bought a 1.9 on Christmas day 2020 for $1,200, it needs a paint job and a top plus a tune up. Can't find one under $2,000 now, and many over $4,000.
Creaks and shit. Spray wd40 white grease down all the nooks and crannies then wipe bro. Works a treat. Got mine silent
I honestly never noticed them unless the top was up... and I never drove it with the top up, so no harm no foul.
@@jimdieselsgarage You made a point of all the creaks tapping on every plastic piece you could reach, including a creaking seat.
Great tip!
Miata - they are fun for driving around in a Parking lot....full of cones - hahahaa that cracked me up!
The mic is impressive
Nice proper review thank you
I have a 1.9 Z3 in Fiji green, chrome gills and 19" alloys....now THAT's a head turner...🤣
Do you think I’d fit in one? I’m 6’6
Eh you’re pushing it ha ha. I’m 5’11” and fit snug
what do you think is a fair price for one of these today?
The car market is really weird these days. What you could buy for $3k 5 years ago now costs $10k. With that said the z3 hasn't quite suffered that fate. There are people out there asking teens for 100k+ mile i6's because they see what other stuff is selling for, but I don't think they're getting it. I wouldn't pay more than 5 for a good 1.9, or more then 10 for a good i6. You should be able to get your money back out at those prices. And by good I mean no leaks, no rust, and maintenance history with it.
@@jimdieselsgarage i've got a BMW dealer asking 12.5 OTD for one with 45k miles on it and it looks mint. 2.3 i6 manual. I figure dealer is always going to inflate the price, but I could probably get it for 12k. No mods.
@@codmott286 My view; if a dealer is asking that somebody near you will sell you one in the same condition for less money... And ideally with maintenance records, which dealers never have.
@@codmott286 I agree with Jim's response. Just wanted to add that the Z3 2.3 is a 2.5L engine. Don't know why BMW used that badge, although I've heard reasons.
i'm 6'2'' also and have been looking at miatas for awhile... i started thinking randomly about this car. i just remembered it out of nowhere. From what i hear, the Miata is insanely cramped for tall people.. Looks like this might be on my list someday. I've always wanted a RWD roadster type car with good handling. You did a good job talking about this car and where it's at in 2021. I agree with you, it's kind of a slept on car people forgot about. I feel like the parts might be really expensive for it, i'll have to research, I always loved the 90s japanes cars, they used to be cheap and the maintenence on em was unbeatable, but now their reputation has driven the market so crazy, along with the chip shortage that something like this is an actual legit alternative. but this car is kind of a good value for what you get. Also i don't mind the 4 cylinder model, i'll never use the power anyway. Less cylinders to missfire. I just wanna cruise and get around comfortably in a car that's fun to drive.
For me a Miata is a tool for a track and nothing more. I owned an NA and literally never wanted to just cruise around in it like I do a Z3. There are mods you can do to an NA to make them tall-man capable, but even still the Z3 will fit you better. On top of that though, the Z3 just feels more special to me. It looks better... by a lot, drives better (in my opinion), and generally feels like a much more quality product then a Miata. And you can get one for $5k, which these days is unheard of for anything else.
I'm 6'3, and don't feel too tall for my z3 at all. I don't know where people are finding well maintained/documented/low mile examples for 5k in today's used car market, but you can definitely get one for under 10k after taxes, etc.. For cruising around comfortably with the top down, and then some fun on twisty roads, it's a great choice.
@@jbrian53 you can get a with a lot of miles but very well maintained for $5,000 easily. I think with this old of cars, the condition is a lot more important than the mileage.
Plastic back window, uggh. My daily driver '06 Z4 3.0si 6 speed blue. It's the best!
you got the wrong one im afraid. if you had got one of the 2.2l and up straight 6 they are highly tuneable and are rapid to drive
I have the 2.8l straight 6 myself and its a beast
I had the 2.8 and the M roadster. They all have their uses, and they're all fun.
@@jimdieselsgarage They do kind of feel like three different cars 1.9, 2.5, 2.8!
Finally a bmw that my NA miata is faster than! Maybe.
Haha it would be close.
Miatas give me the ick. There, I said it.
red colour is feminine? its the colour of blood and guts jeez, get your manhood together :D just joking, nice video
And which sex routinely bleeds blood and guts every month? Lol.
That size engine is nothing more than a girls car. I have a 3.00 love it
Haha, there’s always a bigger motor, pal.
@@jimdieselsgarage no shit - you can drop an LS in it .
says the guy w a cat
@@rolfpfannerer8801 go have fun in your Nissan
@@rolfpfannerer8801 Good one! LOL!
crap cars ..thats all BMW is
Haha, to each their own. They're definitely not made for those who are scared of maintenance costs.
@@loudog3114 or those who are afraid to get their hands dirty.
@@Heretic_Wolf Agreed. To me the reward is worth the risk with a lot of these cars I've owned. AMG, BMW M... And now an old Tesla.
@@jimdieselsgarage nice, I don’t think I’m prepared to dive into an EV project/used vehicle yet, but for now I’m just finishing up my ‘96 z3 and about to get started on an E34 Touring, keep us posted.
@@Heretic_Wolf EV's make killer commuter cars, especially the old Model S. Long distance... not so much, obviously. Every sucker you see cruising along in the right lane with an EV plate has done the math and come to the sad conclusion that cruising along at 80 for 200 miles like everyone else just makes the trip take longer overall. But if you're a geek like me, its super cool tech.