2001 BMW Z3 M Coupe (S54)

Highlights 

• 1 of 123 S54 RHD coupes

• Rare and involving analogue sports coupe

• 321bhp S54 engine with improved VANOS

• Harman Kardon factory sound system

• Well-maintained with good service history

• Only 20 RHD S54's in Estoril Blue

• In superb shape throughout

• Low mileage

• Fresh MOT

Overview

A genuine M badge on the back of a BMW should tell you all you need to know about the capabilities of the car in question. From the very first mid-engined M1 to the latest M5 plug-in hybrid super saloon, that single letter denotes the pinnacle of the marque, forever to be revered for the sheer level of engineering and performance it represents. BMW M cars will always be sought after and the Z3 M is no different. 

The M3 and M5 may be the go to models for most people but when BMW's Motorsport division plonked the 316bhp, 3.2-litre S50 inline six-cylinder engine from the E36 M3 into its diminutive but inherently chuckable Z3 roadster in 1997 there was much rejoicing. A fixed roof coupe joined the party a year later and the Z3 M, in either guise, remains a rare, highly desirable and incredibly engaging two-seater sports car, thanks in part to the sole use of a manual gearbox and limited slip differential, along with a welcome lack of intrusive driver aids. 

From 2001 the S50 was superseded by the more modern S54 six-pot from the new E46 generation M3 which saw a hike in power to 321bhp while the now iconic muscular exterior remained the same, and being a 2001 model this particular coupe is arguably the one to have. With more power and a stronger VANOS variable valve timing setup, if you're not bothered about a convertible roof then there's a lot to like here. 

Complete with excellent service history and a fresh MOT the car presents in superb condition throughout with the vendor reporting that it drives beautifully, so if you're after a well-maintained Z3 M coupe that looks as good as it goes then call off the search.

History and documentation

• 2001 model year

• UK V5C present and correct in the name of the vendor

• First registered on 16 Oct 2001

• In current ownership since 13 Nov 2024

• Five registered former keepers

• Two keys

• Service history with original service book showing inspections at the following intervals: 2001 @ pre-delivery check (main dealer), 2001 @ running-in check (main dealer), 2002 @ 7,539 miles (oil service, microfilter, main dealer), 2003 @ 19,001 miles (inspection I, main dealer), 2004 @ 34,339 miles (oil service, brake fluid, main dealer), 2006 @ 46,367 miles (inspection II, main dealer), 2010 @ 54,171 miles (oil service, brake fluid, main dealer), 2012 @ 57,076 miles (oil service, valve clearances, spark plugs), 2017 @ 73,657 miles (inspection II, brake fluid), 2019 @ 76,424 miles (oil service, coolant, brake fluid), 2021 @ 77,793 miles (inspection I, brake fluid), 2023 @ 78,403 miles (oil service) 

• Multiple invoices for parts, servicing and maintenance

• Large collection of old MOTs

• Printed MOT record dating back to the car's first test

• The car will be sold with a fresh MOT

• ULEZ compliant

• HPI clear

• 79,853 indicated miles

Interior

• The original blue on black leather interior presents very well overall

• Wholly original

• No signs of any damage

• Dash display remain intact with no pixel issues 

• Some usual light wear to high traffic areas, including the driver's seat bolster

• Carpets appear clean and dry

• Floor mats present

• Door cards are in good shape 

• No reports of any electrical problems

• Factory optioned Harmon Kardon sound system

• Boot space is clean and tidy and comes complete with tyre repair kit and warning triangle

• Engine bay is clean and well-presented 

Exterior

• The bodywork is in superb condition 

• All panels are straight with uniform gaps

• Estoril Blue Metallic paintwork presents beautifully with no apparent scratches or scuffs

• No evidence of any damage or corrosion

• Windows and light lenses are in good order  

• All badging is present, correct and in good condition

• Chrome kidney grilles, side gills and boot trim all present well

• The original 17” five-spoke alloy wheels are in fabulous condition with no signs of any kerb marks and all BMW centres and M badges are present and in great shape

• Tyres are a mix of Michelin Pilot Sport 4s at the front and Goodyear Eagle F1s at the rear

• Underneath looks to be clean, solid and in great condition 

Mechanical

• 321bhp, 3.2-litre straight-six engine

• Five-speed manual gearbox

• Rear-wheel drive

• 0-60mph in 5.1 secs

• 155mph top speed (limited)

• No mechanical issues to report

• The vendor informs us that the car drives beautifully

Summary

The divisive styling of the Z3 M coupe has been known to split the room but we reckon it's aged like a fine wine and now wears its muscular body with confident pride. Combine that with the car's impressive performance credentials and hugely involving driving characteristics and it's no doubt that these machines are still rightfully revered today. This BMW Z3 M coupe looks to be a properly sorted example and judging by the photos is in stunning condition throughout as well.

To arrange a viewing, click the 'Book Viewing' button located under the 'Place Bid' button. Viewings can be booked up until the day before the auction ends, after which the option will change to 'Contact Seller' for further enquiries. This seller is located in Chislehurst