1999 | BMW Z3 Coupé 2.8

Highlights

Unmodified Z3 Coupé 2.8 with traceable single ownership since 1999, first registered in Nice. Service booklet present up to 70,000 km, regular maintenance documented throughout. Continuously serviced, both technically and visually largely original – including annual oil changes, new flywheel, and new clutch. The interior features a renewed headliner and a new passenger door panel. Minor bodywork blemish on the driver's side as well as small signs of wear on both front seats, including a tear of less than 3 cm, testify to honest and authentic use.

🏛️ Model History: BMW Z3 Coupé

With the launch of the Z3 Coupé in 1998, BMW departed from conventional 1990s design. Based on the successful roadster, BMW created a distinctive coupé with a striking "shooting brake" silhouette, which is still regarded as a bold statement of Munich engineering today. In the 2.8 version, a classic inline-six (M52TU, reportedly around 193 hp) provides smooth power delivery and balanced handling. The concept – long bonnet, short rear, rear-wheel drive – blends sportiness with everyday usability. According to various sources, only about 18,000 examples of the 2.8 Coupé were built worldwide, making this model a sought-after youngtimer with future collector potential.

This Vehicle

Exterior

This Z3 Coupé was first registered in Nice in 1999 and, according to the previous owner, remains largely in original condition. It displays a minor bodywork blemish on the driver's side (see photo documentation), underlining its authenticity. Paintwork and exterior trim appear period-correct and unmodified. No information is currently available regarding the paint code or possible resprays.

Interior

The interior is well cared for, with a renewed headliner (replaced about five years ago) and a new passenger door panel. The seats show minor damage (tears under 3 cm), indicating regular use but not significantly detracting from the overall impression. The original features – including the manual 5-speed gearbox – are preserved.

Mechanics

Technically, the car has reportedly been serviced regularly, with annual oil changes and service intervals adhered to. The service booklet is stamped up to 70,000 km. The flywheel and clutch were recently renewed, indicating ongoing mechanical maintenance. There is no verified information regarding engine or gearbox numbers.

History

The car has been in single ownership since first registration in Nice. No further details are available regarding previous owners, further usage, or other historical specifics. The original French registration and the continuous service documentation are notable features for collectors and enthusiasts.

Service/Documents

Service booklet present up to 70,000 km, regular maintenance documented. No further details are available regarding documents such as an expert report, original sales contract, or French registration papers.

Summary / Conclusion

The BMW Z3 Coupé 2.8 is regarded by enthusiasts as one of the last analog sports cars from Munich – distinctive in both design and driving experience. This example stands out for its traceable ownership history, solid maintenance, and authentically preserved substance. The combination of inline-six engine, manual gearbox, and unique coupé body makes it a coveted youngtimer, already considered a modern classic. Given the low production numbers and increasing demand for characterful BMW models, further value appreciation seems likely. The minor bodywork blemishes and patinated seats tell the honest story of a true driver’s car – ready to write new chapters.

Comment / Personal Impression

Rarely has a modern BMW coupé displayed such individuality as the Z3 “shooting brake.” The interior evokes a time when cars still had real character – and the sonorous startup of the inline-six is always a temptation. I remember my first encounters with this model in the south of France: the Z3 Coupé was never a show-off, but always a statement for true individualists. Anyone seeking an honest, well-kept example will find here a genuine companion – with history and personality.