Z3 3.0 or E46 330ci Convertible?

[Ilikebeavers]

If you had to choose between the two what would it be?

They are both convertibles
They both cost the same
They have the same engine
They are similar on insurance

But - you get more toys with the E46, but the Z3 is just a bit more 'special'?!

(IMO!)

[edo]

Z3 always gets a hard time, but I liked the 2.8 we had.

I suppose it comes down to whether you need the rear seats and bigger boot?

[Ilikebeavers]

I dont need the seats or space.

I want something fun.

But I like the idea that the E46 has a fully automatic roof, rather than the Z3 needing to be unclipped and then the roof retracts.

[maniac0796]

Z3, in blue, with chrome side vents please.

But considering I've never driven either, I have no place to comment. I know I'd prefer Z3 as a summer B road blaster, but I'd rather cruise down the seafront or over the moor in the 330.

[edo]

budget?

[sebhaque]

Also IMO.

I prefer the E46, it's ever so slightly more practical and I prefer the looks over the Z3. Also isn't as flashy as a Z3 (as convertible BMWs go) - and they're a lot easier to find (low residuals) than Z3 3.0s.

[Ilikebeavers]

Budget would be about £7k

[edo]

Looks nice

2001 BMW Z3 3.0 Sport 2dr Roadster
Private Seller

41,000 miles, Metallic Black. Loads of extras including Extended Black Chameleon Leather interior trim, BMW 'M' leather-bound sports steering wheel & gear knob, BMW heated leather sports seats (both electrically adjustable), Alloy wheels, Electric powerhood, Electric door mirrors, Electric windows, BMW 6 CD Changer (in boot), Facility for iPod/mp3 player to be played through stereo via cassette deck, Remote central locking, Alarm, Immobiliser, Air conditioning, Trip computer, Traction control, ABS, PAS, Drivers & passenger airbag, Halogen front foglights, Headlight washers, floor mats, Service indicator, Lockable rear storage box, Roll over protection, Side impact protection, Insurance group: 18A. Full service history, MOT expires 8/11/11, tax expires 30/6/11. I've owned the car since 2004 and there was one previous owner. Very reliable and in great condition. Extremely reluctant sale as wife is pregnant and babies and Z3s don't mix.

£6,200.

[Ilikebeavers]

That was one of the ones I saw advertised that made me think about them again. Always had a soft spot for them.

To me- it's a lot of car for the money

[Rollcage]

I have always preferred the look of the wide body 2.8s, rather than the half way house of the later cars - I'll take mine in red with chrome gills, rear boot spoiler and BMW five spokes please!

[Ilikebeavers]

Wide body's are nice, but after reading into them lots over all the engine sizes available, I believe going for a later model would be best. Plus the 3.0 has better fuel economy than the 2.8 and does 0-60 in 6 secs

[angusc43]

I find the Z3 a bit odd-looking.

Prefer the 330 - classic styling.

[obscene]

Having driven both, in the long term I'd prefer the E46 as the Z3 is quite cramped inside and not too great for any long runs. If it is just fun you're after, then Z3 all the way, very fun car. Does the sideways stuff well

[MrWhale]

Can you get a z4 3.0 for 7k yet?

[nevgroom]

330 e46 is fantastic (also slightly biased)

[rottie102]

7k is the Z3M territory...

There are deals to be had.

[edo]

MrWhale said:

Can you get a z4 3.0 for 7k yet?

Not quite unless mega miles.

[Ilikebeavers]

rottie102 said:

7k is the Z3M territory...

There are deals to be had.

It's getting there.
But insurance will be too much. Im only a youngun!

[Ilikebeavers]

edo said:

MrWhale said:

Can you get a z4 3.0 for 7k yet?

Not quite unless mega miles.

If you look for a Z4 3.0 for £7k, it would be mega miles, wouldn't be a sport, and would be an early 03 model, which had a few niggles with the power roof...

Would love a Z4 but only when I can afford a 3.0 Sport with normal miles and the facelift which came end of 05 (i think)
That would cost over £10k.

[SteveS Cup]

E46 everytime. The Z3 (apart from the M) was just too soft looking imo.

I'd choose an E46 (facelift) over a Z4.