Faults:

The soft top tends to let in a small amount of water when it rains heavily; this is apparently a common fault with this vehicle. No problem now as it has been fitted with a tailor made soft top cover that is fitted to the car overnight; takes minutes to fit and remove, and fits over the existing hood.

General Comments:

The car has been fitted with a cold air induction system that gives the car considerably more grunt, especially in terms of mid range torque. It has also been fitted with a stainless steel Powerflow exhaust system, and has been re mapped by a BMW specialist. The Z3 now produces approximately 220- 225 hp; very reasonable for a 2.8i.

Not the fastest car that I have owned or driven, although it does hit 60mph in 6 seconds flat, and surprises quite a lot of fellow drivers with its pace. It has been used an a few track days and does keep up with most cars.

It's a very well built small/medium sized convertible and very comfortable to drive, although it's a little small for me as I am quite a large fella.

I would recommend this car to anyone as it genuinely looks fantastic in a silver pearl blue, with immaculate bodywork and large original 17" alloys.

Faults:

Catalytic converter mounting melted after hard driving causing spluttering from engine - dealer had car in twice before problem was diagnosed.

2 replacement hoods - 1st storm damage (tree). 2nd theft - was slashed.

General Comments:

Car best suited to very narrow twisty roads - was absolutely superb when driving in the Alps. Not so good on high speed A-Roads where body roll can become apparent. Also dodgy on autobahns at 120mph+ - hood threatens to break loose, scary body roll on sweeping bends. However, excellent brakes have always kept the situation under control.

I have abused this car and all things considered it has been very reliable.

Handling (cornering) not perhaps the best, but not noticeable unless driving very hard.

Electric hood is fine by me, my wife finds it a bit tough to unlatch - no leaks so far.

Have looked into upgrading to a Boxster 2.7 or S (second-hand) but cannot justify the additional outlay.

These cars can be picked up for about 12K now which is a bargain.

Faults:

Seat belt holder snapped.

Mirrors (wing mirrors) regularly become loose.

General Comments:

Very powerful engine, fast and fun ride.

Solid and well built car.

When the roof is up - it is surprisingly quiet to travel in.

Looks great!

Faults:

Nothing at all - very pleased with it.

General Comments:

This car is a 'second' car bought for a bit of fun in my retirement. It lives up to my expectations and confirms my belief of solid BMW workmanship (although it was made in the USA).

New body styling at the back end gives overall sporty appearance and it gets lots of admiring looks.

Somewhat slow from a start, but the car zooms along smoothly through the gears.

The boot is small, but you can't have everything.