Overview

The rear-wheel-drive Z3 roadster was an upmarket alternative to a used Mazda MX-5 or MG TF. When new, it was neither as expensive nor as prestigious as the clever Mercedes-Benz SLK, but feels lighter and more involving to drive. Like the contemporary MX-5, the BMW Z3 took advantage of the 1990s trend for retro styling in a fun, fashionable way that appeals equally to men and women.

It’s not a particularly exciting drive with the smaller engines, but the six-cylinder 2.8 and 3.0 units transform it, if you want something clearly different from the Mazda.

As a used buy, the impressively low prices erode its value as a style statement, but is it a true sports car? It’s your decision, but plenty of buyers were sufficiently tempted to take the plunge, and there’s a large stock of used examples to choose from now.