1999 BMW Z3 Review

The controversial-looking BMW Z3 coupe is one of the most unusual 1999 models and is destined to become a collector's item.

The limited production coupe essentially is a steel-roof version of the sexy Z3 soft-top sports car, but has a totally new shape from the windshield to the rear hatch and a better overall feel. It's for serious drivers.

BMW says the two-seat Z3 coupe has a shape that ``dares to be different.'' For sure, it looks like no other new car. It's a classic GT (Grand Touring) car like a fast old Aston Martin. It's also reminiscent of sports cars such as the 1960s MGB GT, which was a solid top version of the venerable MGB roadster.

Such autos haven't been made in an awful long time, and Germany's sporty but generally conservative BMW is taking a chance in offering such a uniquely styled car. BMW's reaction is that if people don't like the Z3 coupe, they can buy the Z3 roadster.

People who see pictures of the Z3 coupe love it or hate it. It's a little bulldog of a car that looks far better than it does in photos. It draws lots of stares and ``what-is-it?'' looks and inquiries--although auto buffs know exactly what it is.

The rear-wheel-drive Z3 coupe comes as the $36,200 2.8 model with a 193-horsepower, 2.8-liter six-cylinder--or as the zoomy $41,800 M coupe with a 3.2-liter, 240-horsepower six, which I tested.

Both are fast. But the M coupe has BMW's high-performance six, which is in other top-performance BMW models. It makes the M coupe a genuine rocket; the car hustles from 0 to 60 m.p.h. in 5.3 seconds and offers plenty of punch for the tightest driving situations. Yet the smooth six pulls easily from 30 m.p.h. in fifth gear.

The Z3 coupe has a new shape from the windshield back, compared to the Z3 roadster. Rear flanks of the M version are one of its most striking features; wheel arches swell out to house huge rear wheels, while the body tucks in sharply to rear-quarter windows. The roof ends abruptly at the top of the rear hatch that includes a spoiler. Four big chromed exhaust pipe tips jut aggressively from the lower rear body apron of the M version, while there are two such tips on the 2.8 model, which has slightly smaller tires.

This new coupe clearly looks like it means busines, but watch those costly alloy wheels because they're easily scratched by even low curbs.

The Z3 coupe 2.8's basic shape is the same as that of the M version, but its details are a bit more restrained. The M coupe comes only with a slick five-speed manual transmission, but the 2.8 version also is offered with a responsive four-speed automatic transmission.

The Z3 roadster has solid construction like all BMW models, but the automaker's engineers say the coupe has the most rigid body BMW ever has built. That enables the coupe to be fitted with a suspension that provides exceptional handling, which is helped on slippery roads by a all-speed traction control system for both coupe models.

The M coupe has no spare tire, just a temporary tire inflation system; BMW Roadside Assistance thus provides free towing. I'd rather have a spare.

The Z3 coupe's interior is quieter than the Z3 roadster's because of the solid top. The coupe also is more practical, with a fairly largo cargo area that has a sliding cover and is easily reached by the rear hatch.

Practicality aside, most will want the Z3 coupe--especially the M version--because it feels much like a comfortable race car for the street. It's a blast to drive with its speed and agility but is as docile in town as an economy car.

The cockpit is quite snug and the nonadjustable steering wheel sits close to the driver; tall occupants will want to get out and stretch a lot on long drives. But there's enough luggage room for two on a long journey.

The interior has front and side air bags. It also has a good nine-speaker audio system. The M version has retro items such as chrome rings for the easily read gauges and a classy analog clock. And it has has bold two-tone interior color schemes. The 2.8 model has more subdued interior appearance, with items such as wood console trim. It also has a mini spare tire.

Controls are within easy reach and work smoothly, and even the top of the gearshift knob is lit so a driver unfamiliar with the car can see the shift pattern atop that knob.

One of the well-equipped Z3 coupe's few options is a power sunroof that tilts up so slightly that it hardly seems worthwhile. And there's no sunshade to keep out glare.

The Z3 coupe is too quiet for such a high-performance car; one hopes for exhaust snarl, but only gets it during extreme acceleration. The supple suspension provides a smooth ride, although the car's short wheelbase causes the ride to get bouncy on undulating pavement.

The precise steering is a bit light. It's also a tad slow at legal speeds because BMW didn't want steering to become ``darty'' at the high speeds some owners might try. But the pedal for the powerful brakes is too sensitive.

BMW is to be applauded for coming up with the adventuresome Z3 coupe. Although not for everyone, it's quite a car.