Buying a Z3

[chrisfoxon]

I'm looking at buying a Z3 in December as a daily drive. I commute 60 miles a day so I'm looking at the common 1.9 4cyl. one. Does anyone know what the economy of the 2.0 6cyl or 2.8 is like. Is it actually that much different?

This is my first sports car so I want to avoid having any monstrous bills! Are there any problems that I should look out for when buying one. The only things that I have managed to find that could possibly be a problem is a leaky roof and suspension bushes neither of which are very serious.

all advice is welcome

[Mustard]

One word.... Budget!

As Z3's range from anything between £3500 and £12000

[chrisfoxon]

I'm looking at spending about £5500. So the lower end! I'm hoping the prices will be a bit lower in the middle of winter.

[StuB]

I don't think that there's that much difference between the 1.9, 2.0 and 2.8 if you drive for economy, except that the lower capacity will be slightly more frugal and servicing a 4 cylinder car will be cheaper than a 6.

You should have a reasonable selection of 1.9's for that budget IMO. Don't believe all you hear either, if you get a cared for 1.9 with strut brace(s) and decent tyres, it can be a fun drive. 6's make a much nicer noise and have a bit more torque for fun, but that doesn't seem to be your main requirement.

Have a look on www.zroadster.net for much more model specific information.

HTH