Doug's Take
The BMW Z3 Coupe "Clown Shoe" is a fantastic and uniquely-shaped sporty car that's a lot rarer than the Roadster model – and it's beloved by the enthusiast community for its engaging driving experience, surprising practicality, and overall quirkiness. This particular Z3 Coupe boasts a 5-speed manual transmission paired with a 3.0-liter 6-cylinder powertrain. It also touts some great factory equipment like a limited-slip differential, a power sunroof, and a Harman/Kardon sound system – along with no major modifications, which is a nice benefit. Plus, this Z3 Coupe is offered with the thrill of no reserve, so someone is taking home this BMW at the end of the auction.
Highlights
THIS... is a 2001 BMW Z3 3.0i Coupe, finished in Titanium Silver Metallic with a black interior.
- This Z3 features the desirable 5-speed manual transmission.
- The attached Carfax history report contains some gaps, though it indicates no mileage discrepancies for the given period.
- According to the build sheet provided in the gallery, factory equipment includes a limited-slip differential, a power sunroof, Nappa leather upholstery, air conditioning, and a Harman/Kardon sound system. Modifications reported by the selling dealer include 18-inch Style 193 wheels, black kidney grilles, and tinted windows.
- Released for 1996, the Z3 was welcomed as a rear-wheel-drive roadster with two seats and a relatively affordable price tag; it was a true driver's car. BMW kept development costs in check by sourcing some components from the E30 and E36 3 Series parts bins, and it built the Z3 in South Carolina. 1997 brought a 6-cylinder engine, and the coupe arrived for 1999 with a shooting brake-like design that earned it the nickname "Clown Shoe." Production of both body styles ended in 2002.
- Power comes from a 3.0-liter inline-6, rated at 225 horsepower and 214 lb-ft of torque. Output is sent to the rear wheels via a 5-speed manual transmission.
Equipment
A build sheet is provided in the photo gallery, and a partial list of notable equipment includes:
- Limited-slip differential
- Fog lights
- Power sunroof
- Nappa leather upholstery
- Power-adjustable sport seats
- Leather-wrapped M steering wheel
- Air conditioning
- Cruise control
- Harman/Kardon sound system
- CD player
Modifications
Modifications reported by the selling dealer include:
- 18-inch Style 193 wheels
- Black kidney grilles
- Clear front reflectors
- Rear badges deleted
- Tinted windows
Known Flaws
- The attached Carfax history report indicates that this Z3 sustained damage to the front in July 2008 with another accident reported earlier in the same month.
- Scratches, chips, and clear coat damage around the exterior (pictured in the gallery)
- Faded exterior emblems
- Missing driver's door handle trim
- Ding on the passenger's door
- Bubbling window tint
- Weathered finish on the wheels; one center cap emblem is missing
- Tires have cracked sidewalls and need replacement
- Creases and wear on the seats
- Wear on interior touch points and trim panels
- Missing trim panel covers, driver's door interior handle trim, and mirror adjustment knob
- Some rust on underbody components
Recent Service History
The selling dealer reports that the following services have been performed:
- 2023: Engine oil and filter changed, battery replaced
- 2021: Valve cover gasket, drive belts, tires, heater valve, mass airflow sensor, spark plugs, ignition coils, engine air filter, and cabin air filter replaced, engine oil and filter changed, fuel injectors cleaned
Additional service history is detailed in the attached Carfax report.
Other Items Included in Sale
- 1 key
- Owner’s manual
- Rubber floor mats
Ownership History
The selling dealer states this Z3 was acquired in 2017.
Seller Notes
The selling dealer will collect a $199 document fee from the buyer.