1998 BMW Z3 M

The 1998 BMW Z3 M Roadster represents a significant milestone as the first-ever M-badged roadster produced by BMW Motorsport—unveiled at the 1996 Geneva Motor Show and entering production for the 1998 model year. As part of the E36/7 generation, these high-performance roadsters were hand-assembled exclusively at BMW's Spartanburg, South Carolina facility, making them one of the few M cars built outside Germany. According to historical production records, approximately 8,900 left-hand-drive Z3 M Roadsters were built for North America over a brief production run that concluded in 2000, making these cars significantly more exclusive than standard Z3 models.

According to the seller, this particular Cosmos Black Metallic (paint code 303) example features the desirable black-on-black color combination with original Black Nappa leather M Sport seats, an M-styled steering wheel, shift knob, and a red-needle M gauge cluster. Described as having a plethora of rare M edition parts, this car features the signature M upgrades that distinguish it from standard Z3 roadsters. These include reinforced semi-trailing arms, a 10mm lower ride height, special 17-inch M RoadStar alloy wheels (7.5 inches front, 9 inches rear), a quad exhaust system, and a limited-slip differential. The seller reports the car has been recently serviced with new brake pads and drilled-and-slotted rotors, plus a tune-up, and that it drives exceptionally well with great power and sporty suspension.

• Engine: 3.2L S52 inline-six (240 hp US-spec) with Double Vanos variable valve timing
• Transmission: 5-speed manual with limited-slip differential
• Exterior: Cosmos Black Metallic (303) paint with M-spec wide bodywork
• Interior: Black Nappa leather M Sport seats, M steering wheel, M gauge cluster
• M-Specific Equipment: Quad exhaust, reinforced semi-trailing arms, limited-slip differential
• Mileage: 100,128 miles described as original and highly original

The BMW Z3 M Roadster market on Classic.com shows strong collector interest with 360 recorded sales and a 77% sell-through rate. Recent comparable sales of 1998 M Roadsters have ranged from $8,000 to $21,577 depending on condition and mileage, with similar black/black examples at 85,000 miles and 113,000 miles selling for $15,500 and $21,577 respectively. At 100,128 miles with recent documented maintenance, this example represents a well-sorted driver-quality M Roadster that offers an appealing balance of collectible BMW Motorsport pedigree and genuine open-air driving enjoyment.