Description
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2000 BMW Z3M Coupe
Registration - W203 LNH
Chassis No. - WBSCM92080LB29620
M. O. T. - October 2025
Odometer - 100, 100
With less than 1, 000 BMW Z3M Coupes ever making it across the Channel, W203LNH is a member of an exclusive club - a UK supplied and registered example of this remarkable M3 engined coupe. Originally registered in March 2000 this example, finished in evocative Estoril Blue, is offered from long-term private ownership. The current keeper acquired the Z3M in July 2015 with the coupe having covered around 95, 000 miles and following a period of approximately four years in storage. Today the electronic odometer reads 100, 328 miles, underscoring its light use under its current stewardship. With a sensible 7 keepers to date and offering a valid MOT until October 2025 this charming Z3M is offered with a stamped service book and a number of well-chosen after-market modifications.
The product of a skunkworks passion project the Z3M Coupe was divisively styled by renowned BMW stylist, Chris Bangle. This example exhibits all the key characteristics of Bangle’s work. These include a roofline that is deliberately reminiscent of the BMW 328 Mille Miglia from the 1940s, 507 Roadster aping chromed “gills” and stylised, oval door mirrors. The Z3M’s long wheelbase, long bonnet, wide track and short rear end helped earn it the “clown’s shoe” or “bread van” nicknames. This car’s mechanical specification is deadly serious, however. Pre-2001 cars, like this one, were recipients of the engine from the E36 M3. The S50B32 straight-six unit would rev to nearly 8, 000 rpm, delivering 321bhp on the way. The standard five-speed manual gearbox and limited slip differential endowed the Z3M with a 0-60mph in the low fives. Reassuringly, the braking system was also lifted directly from the E36 M3.
This rare example has enjoyed a few tweaks along the way, too. This Z3M sits on BK Racing adjustable suspension, explaining its decidedly hunkered down stance. This is augmented by H&R uprated roll bars. AP Racing, four pot callipers are fitted and act against quality Ferodo brake pads. An AC Schnitzer short shift gear linkage is present as are AC Schnitzer alloy pedals and performance exhaust system. A carbon airbox concludes the mechanical upgrades whilst a roof panel wrapped in matt black represents the aesthetic changes. In current ownership a new clutch has been fitted, engine, gearbox and differential oils have been changed and a new battery fitted.
The Z3M’s exterior condition is rated as “good for its age” by the owner. Note is made, however, of a stone chipped front bumper cover and paint micro blistering to the bonnet. The "Roadstar" Style 40, 17-inch alloy wheels are thought to be original and, by the owner’s admission, could benefit from refurbishment. The cabin appears to have fared well considering age and mileage thanks to BMW’s signature fit and finish credentials. The customary BMW “black on black” treatment is given an exterior matching lift by the ample accents of blue leather and chromed instrument bezels. The interior, predominantly carried over wholesale from the Z3, is further augmented by a trio of ultra-clear VDO auxiliary gauges in the centre console. Other refinements include air conditioning, electric mirrors, windows and sunroof, central locking and alarm. A retrofitted, remote control JVC head unit feeds the original Harmon Kardon speakers. Whilst strictly a two seater, a surprisingly generous and practical 415 litre boot lurks beneath the opening rear hatch. The original BMW toolkit and obligatory first aid kit is reported to be present.
Shoehorning the sublime and high revving S50B32, naturally aspirated straight six engine into the diminutive and svelte Z3 (it was a full 135 kg lighter than the E36 M3!) was as barmy as it was inspired. In many ways, however, the Z3M was ahead of its time, considerably dearer than an M3 and, hence, made in relatively tiny numbers – 6, 291 to be precise and less than 1, 000 in right hand drive, UK specification. Today, however, the car has been rediscovered by individualistic millennials and Gen-Xers with insurance company, Hagerty, reporting 70% of cover requests emanating from that demographic. The Z3M has come of age.
In summary:
Thoughtfully and subtly upgraded and improved
Offered from long-term, enthusiast ownership
MOT until October 2025 and ready to use and enjoy immediately
This Car has been entered into Hampson Auctions, The Bolesworth classic and performance car and motorcycle auction, which will be held at Bolesworth Castle, Tattenhall, Chester, CH3 9JJ on Sunday 24th November 2024.
Viewing sessions will take place at Bolesworth castle from 9am - 7pm on Saturday 23rd November and from 9am - 12:00 on Sunday 24th November, with the auction itself commencing at 12pm on Sunday 24th November, and you are very welcome to join us there.
Prospective buyers can bid in the room, online, over the telephone or via commission, please contact Hampson Auctions directly if you would like to arrange one of the latter two options, or if you would like to request a condition report.
The auction catalogue so far is available to view via our website. - details above
Auction entries are currently still being accepted, if you have a vehicle which you would like to consign, please contact us.
£18000 - £22000
Buyer's Premium 12. 5%
