SPECIALIST CARS - ENTHUSIAST BUYERS

REGISTER TO BID
REGISTER TO BID
Account Login

Please login to bid on an auction or manage your account.

Login Details
SIGN UP
Keep up to date
Keep up to date with all things Trade Classics, along with new cars.
Curated Auction

1999 BMW Z3 2.8i Roadster +Hardtop

At a Glance

Low Miles | 1 Owner Since New | Hardtop Included | Superb Presentation | Keen Reserve

  • Mileage~47,902 on clock
  • TransmissionManual
  • Engine2.8-litre
  • LocationSawbridgeworth

Curated Auction

We’ve visited this car, taken the images and written the description below – we’ve also verified the seller’s ID and actioned a HPi report – learn more

Curated Auction

We’ve visited this car, taken the images and written the description below – we’ve also verified the seller’s ID and actioned a HPi report – learn more

CURATED AUCTION

Days
HRS
MIN
SEC
CURRENT BID£1,000
See Bidding
Register TO BID

AUCTION LIVE

ENDS IN: 56 Days 12 Hr 51 Min 51 Sec

CURRENT BID

£1,000

See Bidding
Video #2

Introduction

Darren Rungasamy
Photographer and Editor

Sporty driving dynamics, engineering excellence and open-top style from one of the most respected brands in the world.

The 1990s were a golden era for open-topped roadsters, and BMW's 1995 release of the Z3 was met with huge expectations. The Z3 was pitched as an agile and compact cruiser, built to the high expectations of BMW quality. The six-cylinder 2.8-litre models are distinguished by their twin exhaust pipes, standard leather interior and traction control. The Z3 soon found a loyal customer base, appealing to those who wanted a comfortable, refined and upmarket roadster with a punch.

The Z3 still retained BMW's proven rear-wheel drive formula, positively leaning heavily on analogue technology. The retro styling touches, including the coke-bottle curves, gill-like vents on the front wings, and other design touches that hark back to the classic 507 roadster - the Z3 is also a masterclass in contemporary ergonomics, practicality and residuals.

This exceptionally presented 1999 Z3 roadster finished in silver with a red interior is also sold with the optional removable aluminium hard top. It has been with the same owner since new and has just ~47,902 miles on the clock.

The car comes complete with handbooks, a full tool kit, roof removal tool, service manual, original sales brochure and two keys, it also has an MOT to April 2026.

This listing was written from information supplied by Darren after meeting Danny the owner, and having visited and photographed the vehicle.

Secure Auctions

We verify all our sellers and buyers to keep our community safe whilst also providing the highest levels of website security.

Full Transparency

8 out of 10 people that buy cars via our service don’t feel the need to visit due to the transparency and thoroughness of our listings.

Vehicle Delivery

We're there every step of your buying journey and will even arrange pick-up and delivery of your new vehicle.

Secure Auctions

We verify all our sellers and buyers to keep our community safe whilst also providing the highest levels of website security.

Full Transparency

8 out of 10 people that buy cars via our service don’t feel the need to visit due to the transparency and thoroughness of our listings.

Vehicle Delivery

We're there every step of your buying journey and will even arrange pick-up and delivery of your new vehicle.

Video #2

Meet the owner

Easy to drive and refined in use, it's almost like driving a current BMW.

Danny hand-picks clean and low-mileage cars with a minimal number of keepers, and this BMW is a perfect example of his stock. The original owner bought the car new and appears to have only used it on an occasional basis in good weather.

A perfect candidate as a show car, it really wouldn’t take much to get this car in perfect condition.

Danny will be happy to answer any questions about the car in the comments section below.

Danny
Vehicle Owner

Ask Questions

CONTACT OWNER
EXTERIOR VIDEO
Video #2

Exterior

The bodywork has been well cared for and wouldn't need much to make it perfect.

Wheels and Tyres

The 17” 5-spoke alloys have lasted well - the rims are generally free of marks, with some signs of age.

The car has been fitted with a set of Michelin tyres. The rear pair are around 15 years old, and the front pair are older. They do show mild signs of age but have even and legal tread.

image

Bodywork

The underside is solid and the engine bay, boot floor and wheel wells look positive. It's clear to see that the exterior has been well-preserved, exhibiting an excellent panel fit with no dents. The shut lines are consistent, and all doors open and close with ease.

There is a little underpaint blemish pointed out by Danny on the offside front wing just below the side bonnet vent, but it certainly doesn’t distract.

We've highlighted in more detail our observations through our high-resolution images and videos, so please take time to look through all the media files for a detailed view of what’s on offer, and for you to assess the condition of the car for yourselves.

image

Paint

The finish is superb, with consistent coverage, suggesting that the car has been carefully stored.

The silver finish has a positive lustre and a deep shine with minimal age-related marks- there are a handful of stone chips on the nose.

The images are taken from a few different angles to show off the car as you would see it if you were standing there for yourselves. So please take the time to fully assess these high-resolution images and videos of the car, for you to make up your own minds about the condition of the paint.

image

Glass and Trim

The windscreen is in good shape, with a recently applied stone chip repair on the passenger side.

The lights and lenses are in good condition and we couldn’t fault the trim.

The bumpers are flush to the body and free of scuffs; there is a paint touch-up on the front bumper.

image
VIEW ALL
INTERIOR VIDEO
Video #2

Interior

Exceptionally well preserved, the use of high-quality interior materials has helped the Z3 to age gracefully.

Seats and Carpets

The Oregon red leather seats are in excellent condition, well above the expectations of a car of this age.

The carpets are in good shape, and the matching red mats look smart - all are bone dry.

The boot carpet suggests light use.

image

Dashboard

The matching red leather trim dashboard and binnacle are in excellent condition, with no significant signs of age. The centre console veneer finish is clean with decent switchgear, dials and controls. All of the functions work as they should, including the air-con, which blew icy cold.

The rest of the cabin trim is also in great shape, including both the hard top and soft top headlining and door cards.

There are a handful of aftermarket accessories fitted, including a Pioneer USB Player.

image

Steering Wheel / Gear Stick

The gear lever and steering wheel rim are in line with the positive presentation of the interior, with mild surface wear on the face of the steering wheel.

image
VIEW ALL
'ON THE ROAD' VIDEO
Video #2

Mechanics

The 2.8-litre engine provides enough thrills when needed, but also offers a smooth delivery.

Engine and Gearbox

The start-up procedure is trouble-free, the engine firing up without hesitation. The dashboard lights remained off, and the exhaust was clear of smoke. The engine idles smoothly with no signs of fluid leaks.

The engine is positively presented with suggestions that it has been well-maintained.

The gearbox operates smoothly with no reported faults with the clutch.

image

Suspension and Brakes

The suspension, brake pipe and steering components show mild age-related surface corrosion, but all appear to function without any negative feedback.

The ride is composed with no unwanted noises from the wheels.

The car brakes without drama, slowing down with no wobbles or fade.

image

The Drive

BMW have a respected reputation for their straight-six engines, each one providing seamless power with reliability and smoothness. Suiting the Z3’s inclination as a cruising car, the 2.8-litre engine is flexible in the torque range and peppy enough to provide a spirited driving experience.

Being a BMW, the car is extremely usable and potters around at low speeds with no problems, with a smooth, comfortable ride and perfect manners. It deals with the road imperfections well - we didn’t hear any rattles and the steering conducts itself with no notable wobbles or play. It pulls well, accelerating with no hiccups or unwanted noises, providing a decent soundtrack when pushed a little harder.

The car was left running for 10 minutes; the hot day didn’t affect the engine at all, and the fan never kicked in at any point. The engine temperature and oil pressure remained stable, with no reports from Danny to suggest it has ever caused any problems.

image

Electrics and Other

The aluminium hardtop is in excellent condition with no marks or wear. It is straightforward to remove and replace. The soft top is also in near-perfect condition, with a decent rear screen. It lowers and raises without fault - it also retains its rear screen protection mask.

The removable hood cover is in good shape and also comes with various covers for the hardtop.

The car also comes with a complete tool kit and hard-top release tool.

image
VIEW ALL
Video #2

History and Paperwork

This car has been regularly MOT'd in the same quarter of the month since the mid 2000s.

First registered in February 1999, it comes with a partial set of handbooks in a wallet and a sales brochure. There is also a service manual that comes with two keys. It has an MOT to April 2026.

---------------------------------------------

From Trade Classics:

This is an auction on behalf of a trade seller and normal auction rules apply, i.e. there is no warranty, no return policy and bids are binding with more info in our terms and conditions.

We’ve carried out our usual seller checks, including verifying photo ID, the V5C, and an HPI check. This confirms the car has not been stolen, written off, or has any outstanding finance. Please note: This check does not include mileage verification.

We’ve summarised the car based on the seller’s information above. As always, we go to great lengths to photograph and film the car in high-resolution detail so you can make your own informed assessment from the comfort of your sofa. So grab a cuppa, relax, and enjoy reviewing everything in this listing.

Viewings are welcome for all our listings. Please get in touch to arrange a time - we just need to speak with you first and receive valid photo ID before confirming.

If there’s anything you’re unsure about, no matter how small, please ask the owner in the comments section below before placing your bids, as bids cannot be retracted and form a binding contract if you win - just like in a traditional auction house.

Service History
Date Type Mileage
30-04-2025 MOT 47,873
29-03-2023 MOT 47,620
09-03-2022 MOT 46,820
08-03-2021 MOT 45,534
17-03-2020 MOT 44,920
22-03-2019 MOT 43,879
12-03-2018 MOT 42,061
23-02-2017 MOT 41,876
15-03-2016 MOT 40,683
18-03-2015 MOT 40,138
05-02-2014 MOT 39,356
01-02-2013 MOT 38,743
14-02-2012 MOT 37,493
21-01-2011 MOT 35,771
12-02-2010 MOT 34,687
16-02-2009 MOT 33,637
31-01-2008 MOT 32,445
22-01-2007 MOT 30,781
25-01-2006 MOT 28,866
VIEW ALL
Key Details
  • Model BMW Z3
  • Transmission 5-Speed Manual
  • Reg. Date 05-02-1999
  • CC 2793
  • Mileage ~47,902 on clock
  • Colour Silver
  • Interior Colour Black/Red
  • Interior Trim Faux Leather
  • Chassis # WBACH32050LE91569
  • Engine # LE91569
  • MOT Yes Exp. 29-04-2026
  • MOT Exempt No
  • Road Tax Exempt No
  • HPi Clear Yes - All Clear
  • Former Keepers 0
  • Tyre Brand Michelin
  • Tyre Age 2002/2009
  • Security Sys Aftermarket Immobiliser
  • # of Keys 2
  • LHD or RHD RHD
  • Visited Yes
  • Sale Type Trade (No Warranties)
  • Owned 26 Years
  • Key Feature Long-Term Ownership
  • Vehicle Registration S804 BMR
  • Driver’s Side Right
  • Fuel Type Petrol
  • Body Type Convertible with Hardtop
  • Auction ID 2961
VIEW ALL
VIEW ALL
Video #2

All Images

Exterior

Interior

Mechanics

History and Paperwork

All Videos



Vehicle Location

Sawbridgeworth

Request A Delivery Calculation



    Auction Bidding

    Live Bidding
    Current Bid £1,000
    £
    REGISTER TO BID
    Countdown Timer
    0 Days
    0 HRS
    0 MIN
    0 SEC
    Auction Ends Thu 24th Jul at 8.00pm
    Bidding History
    Previous Bids  0
    SEE MORE BIDS SEE MORE BIDS
    6
    Ask Owner
    Post a comment or ask the owner a question about the car.
    Subscribe
    Notify of
    0 Comments
    MORE COMMENTS MORE COMMENTS

    Insurance Quote


    Average annual insurance premium for a BMW like this is £TBC via our trusted partner ClassicLine.
    GET AN INSURANCE QUOTEAnd get 10% off when you mention us.

    *Quote is based on a garaged vehicle in CV32 5QY (Leamington Spa), travelling 3,000 miles per year, 1 driver who is 45 years of age and is free on accidents and convictions – valid Summer 2025.

    Delivery Calculator


    Vehicle Location

    Sawbridgeworth

    Key Bidding Facts

    What is your reserve policy?

    A reserve is the minimum price a seller is willing to accept for their vehicle. We work closely with sellers to set realistic reserves that reflect current market values — we don’t take on vehicles with inflated or unrealistic expectations.

    If the reserve isn’t met when the auction ends, we’ll work with the highest bidder to try and agree a deal with the seller.

    Whether the reserve has been met may / may not be disclosed during the auction — just like a traditional auction house. Bidders usually find out if they’ve won only when the auction ends.

    As a guide:
    – If you’re able to place a second bid, the reserve hasn’t been met.
    – If you attempt to outbid yourself and the system blocks it, then the reserve has been met.

    Why shouldn’t I leave bidding to the last minute?

    Auto-Extending Bidding – we’ve developed auto-extending auctions that mimic traditional auction house bidding; it’s a key feature to make sure classic vehicles achieve their true worth. Bids placed in the last one minute automatically extend the auction by two further minutes. So there is no need to leave bidding to the last second.

    Security – we operate higher levels of security, so you may need to enter further authorisations against your stored card after you select ‘Place Bid’. All this takes time and may mean you miss the end of the auction by the time the authorisation passes. To guarantee your bid, we recommend at least five minutes are active on the auction when you place your bid.

    Register Account

    Please create an account to bid on our auctions and stay up-to-date by receiving our weekly auction update.

    Complete Form