2001 BMW Z3 M COUPE - S54 ENGINE

This BMW Z3 M Coupe is a superb low mileage, original example of a rare Nineties modern classic. This is a later example of the esoteric coupe, borrowing the 338bhp 3.2-litre ‘S54’ straight-six engine usually found in the E46 M3, and powering the rear wheels via a five-speed manual gearbox and limited-slip differential. The odometer reads 63,729 miles.

This UK-market M Coupe was first registered on 7 September 2001. It has been enjoyed by the current owner for the last year.

Development of the Z3 M Coupe was originally a clandestine project by BMW engineers who were convinced more power and performance could be extracted from the Z3 with the aid of M3 parts. Initially in production using the S50 straight-six, it was replaced by the rarer and more powerful S54 engine in September 2001. Only 168 examples of the S54 were ever built in this right-hand-drive configuration, making it one of the rarest of modern BMWs.

Wearing its original factory colour of Black Sapphire Metallic, the Z3 M’s muscular styling is accentuated by the deep, clear finish. There is the expected smattering of stone chips to the front end and side skirts, but the bodywork is generally in very good condition, while the headlight and taillight lenses are undamaged. This German performance coupe retains its original model-specific M badging, and the few minor imperfections include a paint blemish by the BMW roundel on the bonnet. The BMW also wears its original five-spoke alloy wheels, presented in a Shadow Chrome finish. These are in excellent condition with no kerbing marks and clean centre caps.

Moving inside, the Z3 M Coupe’s cabin matches the bold aesthetic of the exterior. The original seats wear Imola Red and black leather, with only light signs of usage. There are a few small scuffs on the outer bolsters, as well as pock marks in the leather visible on the passenger seat bolster. Touchpoints including the M Sport steering wheel and gear knob remain in good condition, and the dashboard trim and switchgear are free of cracks or other damage. The vendor advises that some pixels on the original cassette radio system have failed, though otherwise everything in the cabin is in full working order.

As befitting a performance car of this type, the BMW has undergone regular maintenance. Most recently in October 2020, after coming out of dry storage, an oil and filter service was carried out by specialist B for BMW in Glasgow at 63,729 miles. A general vehicle inspection was also performed at owner's request, with no issues apparent other than the rear pads and discs being changed. Prior to this, in May 2020 the car received new front brake discs and pads, and an Inspection I service was carried out in August 2019, which included fresh gearbox oil.

The most recent MOT test was on 5 May 2020 at 63,652 miles. This resulted in a first-time pass, with advisories only for slight play in the front inner suspension arm ball joints. The Z3 M wears Michelin Pilot Sport tyres all round, with approximately 4mm of tread on rear and 6mm tread on front remaining.

Now ready for its next BMW aficionado owner, this highly original and collectable Z3 M Coupe will be supplied with 2 keys, its original stamped service book and itemised service folder, detailing BMW main dealer history until 2007, and independents and owner self-servicing thereafter.

Combining unusual styling and scintillating performance from its naturally aspirated 3.2-litre straight-six, this S54-engined Z3 M Coupe is already a cult modern classic. Despite the obvious rarity appeal to collectors, it is best enjoyed on flowing B-roads or on even longer road trips on the continent.

The description of this auction lot is, to the best of the seller's knowledge, accurate and not misleading. Collecting Cars requests a range of detail about the lot from the seller, and performs a level of due diligence through HPI checks and MOT history. However, bidders must satisfy themselves as to the accuracy of the description, and conduct any research they feel is necessary before committing to a bid. Please see our Terms and Conditions for full details.

All UK-registered cars and motorbikes on Collecting Cars are run through an online HPI check. This vehicle shows no insurance database markers for damage or theft, and has no finance owing.