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Curated Auction

1999 BMW Z3

At a Glance

Rare Fiji Edition in Fiji Green with Picasso-Pattern Leather | Straight-Six Engine With Manual Gearbox | 8-Year Ownership

  • Mileage~64,540 on clock
  • TransmissionManual
  • Engine2.8-Litre
  • LocationPinchbeck, Spalding

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£1,500
See Bidding

AUCTION LIVE

ENDS IN: 56 Days 12 Hr 51 Min 51 Sec

CURRENT BID

£1,500

Introduction

Ashley Dawson
Professional Consigner

A wonderfully distinctive and rare example of BMW’s compact two-seat roadster, combining classic proportions, a characterful straight-six engine, and an unusually vibrant colour scheme and interior.

Introduced during the mid-1990s, the Z3 marked BMW’s return to the small, open sports-car market. Its long bonnet, low seating position, and short rear deck gave it the appearance of a traditional roadster, while rear-wheel drive and proven BMW mechanical components provided a suitably engaging driving experience.

This 1999 2.8 example is finished in the rare and striking Fiji Green, complemented by silver five-spoke alloy wheels and a black fabric hood. The unusual specification continues inside, where Picasso-patterned black leather is accompanied by contrasting green piping. We believe the Fiji Edition - one of BMW's curated "Spring and Autumn Collection" packages - to be exceptionally rare. It is reported to have come at a £7,500 premium to a standard Z3 when new.

Beneath the bonnet is one of BMW’s great naturally-aspirated straight-six engines, paired with a five-speed manual gearbox.

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

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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.

Meet the owner

I bought the Z3 in 2018 and have really enjoyed owning it. I fell in love with the colour the moment I saw it.

Louise purchased the BMW in 2018 and has enjoyed it as an occasional open-top sports car.

Her maintenance regime has principally consisted of routine servicing and MOT preparation. Louise reports that the car has not required any significant mechanical work during her ownership and has continued to drive very well.

The car is now being offered for sale because it is not used frequently enough. Louise would also prefer it to pass to an owner able to provide suitable garage storage and enjoy it more regularly.

She would be happy to answer any questions in the comments section.

Louise
Vehicle Owner

Ask Questions

CONTACT OWNER

Exterior

The Z3’s bright turquoise-green finish gives it enormous personality, and works particularly well with its compact roadster proportions and contrasting black fabric hood.

Wheels and Tyres

The BMW is fitted with a set of silver five-spoke alloy wheels.

Their simple design suits the shape and period of the car particularly well, providing an attractive contrast against the vivid body colour. The wheels present well overall, with only light signs of age and use visible upon closer inspection.

Please take time to review the photos and videos for a detailed view of the exterior, wheels, and tyres so you can make your own assessment of their condition. Tyres are a key safety item, and you should consider replacing any that are cracked, perished, unevenly worn, or over 10 years old.

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Bodywork

The Z3’s bodywork presents well, with its long bonnet, pronounced wheel arches, and short rear deck giving the model its recognisable profile.

The panels appear straight overall, with consistent-looking shut lines around the bonnet, doors, and boot. We did not notice any substantial dents or obvious areas of bodywork damage during our visit.

The doors, bonnet, and boot operated as expected, while the black fabric hood folded correctly.

The prominent side vents, compact windscreen, and twin exhaust outlets complete the Z3’s distinctive appearance.

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

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Paint

The bright turquoise-green paintwork is undoubtedly one of this BMW’s most memorable features.

It retains a good overall gloss and highlights the curves of the bonnet, doors, and rear wheel arches particularly effectively. The colour also works well with the black roof, dark cabin, and silver alloy wheels. It's a rare and lovely combination.

There are a couple of stone chips around the front of the car, consistent with normal road use. Other small age-related marks may be visible upon close inspection, but the paint remains presentable overall and creates a strong first impression.

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 hi-resolution images and videos of the car, for you to make up your own minds about the condition of the paint.

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Glass and Trim

The exterior glass and surrounding trim present well overall.

The windscreen, side windows, and rear light lenses appear clear and free from obvious damage. The BMW badging, kidney grilles, side vents, and other exterior trim also appear complete.

The passenger-side front headlamp is slightly misted. This is visible upon closer inspection and may benefit from cleaning, refurbishment, or attention to its sealing.

The black fabric convertible roof operates correctly and fits neatly around the cabin when raised. On inspection we noticed that it has only a couple of small marks.

When lowered, the hood sits behind the seats, leaving the Z3’s twin roll hoops visible and giving the car the clean, open appearance for which it was famous.

Please view the photos and video below to review the condition of the glass and trim for yourself.

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Interior

The compact two-seat cabin is in good overall condition, combining black upholstery with distinctive patterned-leather seat centres and contrasting green piping. It's wonderfully '90s.

Seats and Carpets

The sports seats are trimmed in black, with unusual patterned-leather centre sections and bright green piping that ties the interior to the exterior colour.

Both seats retain their shape and provide good support. The upholstery presents well overall, although there is a noticeable scuff on the outer section of the driver’s seat bolster.

Elsewhere, the seats show only ordinary creasing and signs of use consistent with the age and indicated mileage of the car.

The black carpets and lower cabin trim also appear presentable. Twin roll hoops are fitted behind the seats, adding a suitably purposeful appearance to the open cabin.

Please take a look at the photos and video below to decide on the condition of the seats and carpets for yourself.

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Dashboard

The predominantly black dashboard retains the straightforward, driver-focused layout associated with BMWs of this period.

Large, clearly marked instruments sit directly ahead of the driver, while the audio system, ventilation controls, and ancillary switches are arranged neatly across the centre console.

The dashboard and surrounding trim present well, with no significant damage noticed during our visit. The switchgear retains a pleasingly substantial action, and the cabin feels well assembled.

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Steering Wheel / Gear Stick

An M-badged three-spoke steering wheel is fitted and suits the sporting character of the Z3.

There is some age-related wear around the steering-wheel rim, but it remains presentable and comfortable to hold.

The five-speed manual gear lever is positioned close to the driver and falls naturally to hand. Its covering displays some ordinary wear, consistent with the steering wheel and general use of the car.

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Mechanics

The naturally aspirated straight-six engine is a major part of this Z3’s appeal, delivering smooth power and the distinctive sound for which BMW’s six-cylinder engines are known.

Engine and Gearbox

The BMW is powered by a longitudinally mounted straight-six petrol engine driving the rear wheels through a five-speed manual gearbox.

The engine ran well during our visit and produced no unwanted mechanical noises. It settled into a smooth idle and responded cleanly when the accelerator was applied.

The engine bay presents honestly, displaying some light age-related patina but no immediately apparent concerns. The principal components and surrounding panels appear complete and appropriately maintained.

Louise reports that the car has continued to perform reliably during her ownership, requiring only routine servicing rather than major engine work.

The five-speed manual gearbox operated correctly and selected each ratio without difficulty. The clutch also felt good, engaging progressively without any reported slipping, juddering, or unwanted noises.

Please watch the mechanical and on-the-road videos to hear the engine running and to see the Z3 being driven.

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Suspension and Brakes

The suspension performed well during our drive, feeling well under control and not producing unwanted knocks or rattles.

Its relatively compact dimensions and low seating position contribute to an engaging driving experience, while the suspension remains compliant enough for more relaxed journeys.

The steering felt substantial and direct. Louise particularly enjoys the reassuring feedback it provides, describing it as one of the qualities that makes the car such a joy to drive.

The brakes also performed well, bringing the Z3 to a stop without any obvious pulling, vibration, or unwanted noises.

Overall, the steering, suspension, and braking systems behaved as expected during our time with the car.

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The Drive

The Z3 combines traditional roadster proportions with the reassuring mechanical feel associated with BMWs of the period.

The straight-six engine provides smooth and flexible performance, accompanied by a characterful exhaust note. It ran without unwanted noises during our visit and felt well suited to the car’s compact size.

The five-speed manual gearbox adds considerably to the driving experience. Its ratios selected cleanly, while the clutch felt progressive and straightforward to use.

Louise describes the steering as sturdy and communicative, giving her confidence in how the car is behaving. During our drive, it felt positive and provided a good connection with the road.

The suspension remained composed and free from concerning noises, while the brakes performed reassuringly.

With the roof lowered, the low seating position, long bonnet and responsive controls create the sense of occasion expected from a two-seat roadster. It is equally capable of relaxed weekend drives or more involving journeys on quieter roads.

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Electrics and Other

The convertible roof operated correctly during our visit, folding neatly behind the seats. The fabric has a couple of small marks but remains presentable overall.

The windows, exterior lighting and principal cabin equipment appeared complete. The passenger-side headlamp is slightly misted and may benefit from attention.

We didn't test the radio, and we note it needs a new aerial, but is believed to be functioning otherwise.

No other specific electrical concerns were reported by Louise.

The exhaust has a small dent, although the engine and exhaust system sounded good during our time with the car.

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History and Paperwork

Louise purchased the BMW in 2018 and has now owned it for approximately eight years.

During that time, the Z3 has been maintained through routine servicing and MOT preparation. Louise reports that no major mechanical work has been required under her ownership, and that the car continues to drive very well.

Louise is selling because the BMW is no longer receiving the use it deserves and ideally needs to be kept in a garage. This represents an appealing opportunity to acquire a colourful, characterful, and engaging manual Z3 out of long term ownership.

We’ve done all our usual seller checks including photo ID, V5 and also actioned a history check on the vehicle - this is a professional check operated by HPI that will highlight if the car has been previously stolen, recorded as being in an accident, or have any outstanding finance - note, this does not include a mileage history check.

We've summarised our own view on the car based on information gained from the seller in the listing above, however, and as you can see, we go to great lengths to photograph and video the car in hi-resolution detail - this has been done for you to make your own assessment from the comfort of your sofa. So please sit back, have a cuppa and take your time to review everything on this listing in order to make your own assessment on the vehicle's condition. Viewings are also welcomed with all our listings, so please get in touch with us to arrange a suitable time - we just need to speak to you first and receive a valid photo ID before confirming.

If there's anything you're unsure about, no matter how small, then please first ask the owner in the comments area below before placing your bid/s, as bids can't be retracted and form a binding contract if you win the car - just like a traditional auction house.

Service History
Date Type Mileage
07/05/2026 MOT 64,523
24/04/2025 MOT 64,469
29/04/2024 MOT 64,411
04/03/2023 MOT 64,295
02/11/2021 MOT 64,165
12/10/2020 MOT 64,140
23/04/2019 MOT 63,619
09/05/2018 MOT 62,558
12/06/2017 MOT 62,402
10/06/2016 MOT 62,262
19/06/2015 MOT 61,626
09/07/2014 MOT 61,148
18/06/2013 MOT 60,940
15/05/2012 MOT 60,730
02/07/2011 MOT 57,336
26/07/2010 MOT 53,240
09/09/2009 MOT 52,764
01/08/2008 MOT 52,758
12/03/2007 MOT 51,682
03/03/2006 MOT 50,513
Key Details
  • Model Z3
  • Transmission Manual
  • Reg. Date 01/06/1999
  • CC 2793
  • Mileage ~64,540 on clock
  • Colour Teal
  • Interior Colour Black, Piped in Teal
  • Interior Trim Leather
  • Chassis # WBACH32050LE91233
  • Engine # 30609010
  • MOT Yes, exp: 06.05.2027
  • Former Keepers 6
  • LHD or RHD RHD
  • Visited Yes
  • Sale Type Private
  • Owned 8 years
  • Key Feature Striking, rare specification
  • Vehicle Registration T737 JNY
  • Auction ID 4043


    Auction Bidding

    Live Bidding
    Current Bid £1,500
    £
    1999 BMW Z3
    AUCTION STATUS RESERVE NOT MET
    RESERVE NOT MET RESERVE MET
    Countdown Timer
    0 Days
    0 HRS
    0 MIN
    0 SEC
    Auction Ends Thu 22nd Oct at 7.10pm
    Bidding History
    Previous Bids  1
    £1,500 bid by Tasminman08.10.26 @ 21:34:39
    SEE MORE BIDS SEE MORE BIDS
    1247
    Ask Owner
    Post a comment or ask the owner a question about the car.
    4 Comments
    Tasminman
    Tasminman
    3 days ago

    Hi Louise , I am currently bidding on your Z3 I have watched all of the videos and everything seems good apart from the video showing the underside of the outer sill covers ,I see that there looks to be rust present at the ends of the sill which is quite common,Do you know whether whats behind these has been investigated as the inner sill can rot which is structural and whether the outer sills just have surface rust or have been perforated. Many thanks again Neil

    samwatson
    samwatson
    4 days ago

    Hi, when was the car last serviced please? Also do you know if the underside is solid and mostly rust free?

    MORE COMMENTS MORE COMMENTS

    Insurance Quote


    Average annual insurance premium for a BMW Z3 like this is £170 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 Autumn 2026.

    Delivery Calculator


    Vehicle Location

    Pinchbeck, Spalding

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