Despite being someone who considers himself an enthusiast, the list of cars that I get truly excited about driving is shockingly small. I’m not sure if it’s a combination of having limited time to drive for fun or simply the result of having the same hobby for over 30 years, but most of the time, driving is just a way to get from Point A to Point B. One exception, however, is my 2001 BMW Z3 M Coupe, which is hands-down one of the best cars I’ve ever owned. This is a 2000 model equipped with the S52 inline-six cylinder and listed here on craigslist for $19,500.
It’s hard to capture exactly what makes every drive a hoot, other than just looking at how goofy this little car is. The proportions are zany to say the least, with a roof grafted onto what was once a convertible. The fenders are enormously wide, and they still struggle to hide the massive staggered wheels. There is no backseat, just two buckets and a small area for overnight luggage. The build quality is borderline laughable, but the only laughing you’ll be doing is when you’re dumping the clutch and feeling the whole car rush forward with your body simply along for the ride.
Now, I will say the sensation is enhanced slightly in my car, which sports the more powerful S54 inline-six engine that truly makes for a raucous good time. However, this is a small car with a powerful engine no matter which era of the M edition you buy, so they’re all generally quick (the S52 car shown here will eclipse 60 in safely under 6 seconds; my car, with the S54, will sprint to 60 in about 5 seconds flat or just under if you’re a particularly skilled driver.) The S52 shown here is good for 240 b.h.p. and 236 lb.-ft. of torque. Curiously, the seller mentions that it needs transmission work but doesn’t elaborate as to why, so you’ll want to find out more about this potentially expensive fix.
Inside, you’ve got a wild two-tone interior that had some alignment with the exterior color. This Z3 M Coupe, affectionately called the Clownshoe by its acolytes, wears Estoril Blue paint with matching interior inserts and is generally considered one of the more desirable colors. The seller’s car is also quite unique in that it is a so-called “slicktop,” which means it came without a sunroof. Most of the Z3 M Coupes came with a hole cut in the roof, so finding one that didn’t lose any of its structural rigidity by way of this popular option is truly a case of a needle in a haystack. Thanks to Barn Finds reader Barney for sending in this rare find.
Interesting car. Curious, why do you say “The build quality is borderline laughable”?
Had a 98 M Roadster and I miss it every day. Check for subframe issues. Google it. Once you get it do an M50 manifold swap and swap gears for a real good time.