[{"id": 1740820, "authorName": "Zacm829", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/zacm829/", "bidAmount": 1, "content": "$1 bid placed by Zacm829", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1505340229, "type": "bat-bid"}, {"id": 1740841, "authorName": "ten_dollar_banana", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/ten_dollar_banana/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Ahhh, back when even a base four-cylinder BMW could have optioned with a limited-slip differential. Those were the days.", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1505340618, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1740888, "authorName": "parke1", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/parke1/", "bidAmount": 4000, "content": "$4,000 bid placed by parke1", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1505341460, "type": "bat-bid"}, {"id": 1741041, "authorName": "rghoskins", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/rghoskins/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Low mile, first year, with the closest color offered to the SC state flag. Could be a collector.", "likes": 1, "timestamp": 1505347611, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1741099, "authorName": "Butterfinger", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/butterfinger/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Wow that's a nice color! Never seen it on a Z3. Much more common to see the \"007\" blue ones. Too bad the 96's didn't have the roll bars yet and the wider rear wheel flairs that didn't show up until the 2.8 liter models. Otherwise this is a really nice looking Z3. It'd be nice to see more non-M Z3s on BaT, they're fun cars and have a real classic style to them.", "likes": 2, "timestamp": 1505349992, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1741141, "authorName": "tinyfrogs", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/tinyfrogs/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "@Butterfinger. BaT borked prices on NA Miatas. Now they're gonna do it to Z3s before I get a chance to bottom-feed a 2.8 or 3.0 that hasn't yet had the subframe issue fixed.", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1505351364, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1741239, "authorName": "Ricketywings", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/ricketywings/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "These cars are so much fun. I have a 2000 Z3 and it's a great time. They are wonderfully constructed - a true BMW. In 5 years, people will begin to appreciate their overlooked attributes. Not that I'm biased! \n\nI think this is a good time to step into a Z3.", "likes": 1, "timestamp": 1505356080, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1741427, "authorName": "isnospoon", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/isnospoon/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Nicely kept example in a gorgeous color. I have a '96 in Schwarz II with 45k miles but nowhere near as nice cosmetically, inside or out. Mechanically very easy to work on. I really like the condition of the seats.", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1505376072, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1741737, "authorName": "jbbush", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/jbbush/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "My parents have a 1997 Z3 1.9 that joined the family in 1999. A clone of James Bond's car in Goldeneye, I'm not sure it's actually passed 40k miles yet. Despite being an automatic \u2013\u00a0Mom doesn't drive a manual \u2013 it is an exceptionally fun little car. These days, Dad drives it around on sunny afternoons and weekends, always choosing it over the 1967.5 Datsun 1600.\n\nZ3s are just fantastic little machines, and this one looks great. GLWTA.", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1505400407, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1742081, "authorName": "AndrewC", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/andrewc/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Very nice!", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1505410568, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1743430, "authorName": "Dean_Laumbach", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/dean_laumbach/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Love these German Adult sized go karts !!! Fun car !!!", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1505439323, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1743455, "authorName": "AndrewC", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/andrewc/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "curious how do you tell if a 1.9L z3 has limited slip without putting it on a lift", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1505440233, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1743587, "authorName": "MrBaez", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/mrbaez/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "@Andrewc\nYou should be able to use an online vin decoder. If it was installed after the car was bought. They usually have an identifier tag on them. Or yeah, test for one wheel peel. Yippiekayyah!,", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1505447422, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1743648, "authorName": "AndrewC", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/andrewc/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "cool! anyone have a link to a bmw online vin decoder", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1505452259, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1744023, "authorName": "majerusm", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/majerusm/", "bidAmount": 4450, "content": "$4,450 bid placed by majerusm", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1505486610, "type": "bat-bid"}, {"id": 1744237, "authorName": "BlueBimmers", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/bluebimmers/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Looks great. Haven't driven but have read these early 1.9s are the simplest and the most \"Miata\" like of the Z3s. Whether that's a positive or negative depends on the individual - maybe how large he/she is!\n\nManual top will never malfunction, cooling system won't explode, power will never exceed the capacity of the chassis and of course that beautiful color. Lots to like here, GLWA!", "likes": 2, "timestamp": 1505492817, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1745895, "authorName": "tinyfrogs", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/tinyfrogs/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "@AndrewC. http://bfy.tw/AsHz", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1505532174, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1746070, "authorName": "isnospoon", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/isnospoon/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Curious if any cooling system work has been done and the condition of tires? Also any creasing or haziness on the rear window?", "likes": 1, "timestamp": 1505560642, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1746525, "authorName": "kreisverkehr00", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/kreisverkehr00/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "I know these cars in and out. I can't spot anything wrong with the car, seems to be a flawless example.", "likes": 2, "timestamp": 1505589991, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1747034, "authorName": "andyreid", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/andyreid/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "I own one of the 1996 007 edition cars and love mine. I think the lack of roll bars on these early cars looks so much better and more classic looking. If you roll a Z3 not sure what they would help with anyway.\n\nThese 1.9 cars are the luxury Miata or the world's greatest TR4. \n\nPeople seem to always beat on the 1.9 liter cars as down on power. My take is that these are a modern day built class I small bore roaster. They really drive like a TR4 or Alfa spider with immensely better build quality and more performance while not losing that classic 1960s roaster feeling.", "likes": 4, "timestamp": 1505667452, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1747302, "authorName": "Zoomzoom1", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/zoomzoom1/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Any accidents?", "likes": 1, "timestamp": 1505696073, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1747757, "authorName": "parke1", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/parke1/", "bidAmount": 4700, "content": "$4,700 bid placed by parke1", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1505750379, "type": "bat-bid"}, {"id": 1747814, "authorName": "carrey (The Seller)", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/carrey/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "No accidents. Seller knows the original owner and history of the car.", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1505753064, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1748850, "authorName": "OnerousEthic", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/onerousethic/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Gorgeous! Very low miles. To die for! This might just be my next car. \n\nI like to put my foot down and keep it down. I am done with overpowered cars. I find it more fun to drive a slow car fast than a fast car slow.\n\nI never did see the need to smoke my tires - or pay for 100+ HP that I never used. \n\nI feel the need to put my foot down daily...", "likes": 2, "timestamp": 1505771667, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1749144, "authorName": "Darrin", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/darrin/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Here is a trick to do. Go on I-95 in South Florida and drive with the top down. Start at 75 mph, start drinking an ice cold Gatorade 20 oz. or larger, accelerate to 80+ mph - the Gatorade will get sucked out of the wide mouth bottle. It could happen in other convertibles but it was part of the fun of driving this car. After a few of these events I learned to not go above 80 when drinking with the top and windows down. Funny thing is in the summer in South Florida, during the middle of the hot afternoon, with the black top up the AC just can't cool the car well. It cools but not as good as a 2013 Fiat 500c with a black convertible top. Now I am a father and have a convertible with a back seat but also an E46 wagon.\n\nI loved my BMW Z3 1.9 which was still under warranty when I got it, nearly four years old with only 16,000 pampered garaged miles. Was excited to see this one because it is the exact twin but I highly doubt this was my car. I think it had 35k mi. when I sold it a long time ago. Beautiful color combo. If the bids don't go up on this quick I will need to start counting my money.", "likes": 1, "timestamp": 1505785775, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1749219, "authorName": "n_l", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/n_l/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "I raced one these for several years - I'm told it was one of the original 24 press-fleet vehicles that all got turned into race cars. Nicely balanced car, easy to drive. The only real quibble I had (other than the lack of aftermarket support for the M44 engine) was the gap between 2nd and 3rd gear. Probably not an issue for a driver, but on the track, it felt like I dropped an anchor out on the up-shift. Feeling a little nostalgic looking through the pictures. This one looks very nice and should be a great driver for the next owner.", "likes": 1, "timestamp": 1505790444, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1749221, "authorName": "Ciyo", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/ciyo/", "bidAmount": 5000, "content": "$5,000 bid placed by Ciyo", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1505790673, "type": "bat-bid"}, {"id": 1749278, "authorName": "Darrin", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/darrin/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "I worked at a BMW dealership when the Z3 was introduced. BMW delivered us a showroom Z3 that could not be test driven. I noticed that it did not have a proper ID #, I asked the rep why, he said it was one of the pre-production prototypes and in a few months when the production cars are available BMW will take this one back and crush it! I would like to think it became one of those race cars instead.", "likes": 1, "timestamp": 1505794940, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1749302, "authorName": "n_l", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/n_l/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "@Darrin - Mine had a VIN (Sept. 1995 production), but I was told it could not be titled for road use. Some subtle differences to later cars like the rear brake plumbing..", "likes": 1, "timestamp": 1505796844, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1749426, "authorName": "TheHomeHunter", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/thehomehunter/", "bidAmount": 5100, "content": "$5,100 bid placed by TheHomeHunter", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1505824960, "type": "bat-bid"}, {"id": 1749928, "authorName": "carrey (The Seller)", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/carrey/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "@owner Car is at Firestone for it's final courtesy check. Anyone is welcome to call Tony Lee Store Manager - he gives it a full thumbs up excellent condition. 650-364-1900", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1505842451, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1750910, "authorName": "jimfreeh", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/jimfreeh/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Ah, the Z3, and not the M version......\n\nBackstory:\n\nWhen the German triumvirate issued the 3 roadsters; SLK, Z3, Boxster, I was stumped. As a dedicated MB guy I should have loved the SLK, with it's party trick hardtop. But the lack of a manual, coupled with the Kompessor 4 cylinder worked against the car. But the Z3, wow, loved the looks of the car, and knew that BMW would deliver the driving experience I expected. While also a 4 cylinder (intially), the BMW 4 cylinder engines never seemed as rough as the MB Kompressor engine. Any way, back to the Z3. Two friends at work also were drawn to the roadsters, and the first was a 97 four cylinder white/black top/black and red inside. Beautiful color on the car, and matched my wife's MGB color. Enjoyed driving the car, was impressed with it and wouldn't have minded at driving the Z3 as a daily car. After six years, the car ended up getting purchased by my brother, with 14k miles on it.... My brother kept it for a couple of years, but was put off by the lack of power, and he also missed not having the wide hips in the rear that the six cylinder cars had. The second Z3 was a 99 2.3. That is the the 2.3 model had a 2.5liter six, go figure. This car superceded the four cylinder car, and was decontented to keep the price low. Lots of standard stuff became optional for the 2.3. So friend #2 buys the 99, which happens to be Montreal blue/beige/beige top. He happily drives it for nine years, then whacks a deer. Car will not inspect, due to headlight damage, so the car gets parked for 5 years. Then in 2013 I end up with the car. Pretty much sorted out now, and I love it.\n\nWhat impressed me the most about the car:\n\nMany years ago, Road and Track employed a writer named Henry N Manney, who was always good for a turn of phrase. For example, he called the Jaguar E-Type \"The greatest crumpet catcher known to man.\". This, to my amazement, was also true with the Z3. \nNot just anecdotal stories, but what I observed first hand. Not sure how to explain it, and my lovely wife, who is very discerning as to which cars are her favorites, gets rather animated whenever I bring up the subject of passing the car on. She really likes the car, loves the looks, loves the way it drives, loves everthin...... ooops, wait, not everything. There the problem of luggage space. We took the car out of state for a weekender. Tight!\nGot a removable luggage rack for the trunk, should be good for a couple of extra cases.\n\nThe color:\n\nMontreal blue. It a dark, bright blue metallic. With a splash of red thrown in. The red is most apparent when you get direct sunshine. When I had a new top installed, I wanted the dark fabric, vice the original beige, but when you put the dark blue fabric against the blue paint, the paint seem almost purple.\nIt's probably one of the most commented colors I've owned, and I gotta agree, it's a beautiful color.\n\nSix vs four:\n\nDepends what you want. The four puts out around135-140 hp. Not bad, plenty enough to keep up, and very much in the MG experience. You have to work the car to keep up with traffic, but it's \"fun\" work. As I mentioned, I could have been very happy with the white 4 cylinder car, as it felt like driving a modern MGB, the stars did not align when it became available. The 6 cylinder cars had either 190hp for the 2.8 or 170 for the 2.3 (2.5l). Both cars had the widened rear end that the 4 cylinder car lacked. Now that I've got a 6, I have say I really, really, like the bigger rear fender flares. There is something about the stance of the car when it is wearing the wider flares that appeal to me. And they lost lost a lot of that look, when they reprofiled the fenders in 2000. In addition, the 6 has the lovely German straight six growl, which is nice to hear.\n\nWhy you should buy this car:\n\n1. Condition. Z3s do not have high quality material in the interior. Yet this car shows very little wear, very consistent with story.\n\n2. Four cylinder, so what! Enjoy the car as a modern Little British Car. Circumstances had me end up with a six, but I would have been happy with a four.... BTW, did you know you can add the wider rear fenders by changing out the unboltable rear fenders, and the rockers, and gas flap?\n\nGood luck with the auction, somebody is going to land a great car.\n\nJim", "likes": 1, "timestamp": 1505858100, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1751127, "authorName": "tanzer395", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/tanzer395/", "bidAmount": 5200, "content": "$5,200 bid placed by tanzer395", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1505863448, "type": "bat-bid"}, {"id": 1751134, "authorName": "TheHomeHunter", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/thehomehunter/", "bidAmount": 5300, "content": "$5,300 bid placed by TheHomeHunter", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1505863967, "type": "bat-bid"}, {"id": 1751219, "authorName": "clubhousemotorco", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/clubhousemotorco/", "bidAmount": 6000, "content": "$6,000 bid placed by clubhousemotorco", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1505867677, "type": "bat-bid"}, {"id": 1751233, "authorName": "TheHomeHunter", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/thehomehunter/", "bidAmount": 6500, "content": "$6,500 bid placed by TheHomeHunter", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1505868291, "type": "bat-bid"}, {"id": 1751454, "authorName": "jimfreeh", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/jimfreeh/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "To comment on my comment below:\n\nApologies for spelling and grammer, tried to fix, but edit time ran out...\n\nWhen I talked (There's that stream of consciousnous (SP) going on) about selling the car, the issue is a set limit of cars which I don't want to exceed. Everytime I get on BaT, and see something I want, I have to also review what I currently have, and sell one to get another. \nThe problem is that the Z3 is the one car that keeps coming up as the first to sell. The secondary problem is the next one up for sale is Linda's 68 MGB with 38k miles. There is no discussion for the MGB, it's staying.......\n\nSo, anyway, each time I bring up selling the Z3, for another car, I'm surprised (but inwardly pleased) to see a spirited defense. Usually, it's a passive reaction. Maybe it all ties back to the effect the car seemed to have on people with a certain set of chromosomes....\n\nThose of you on BaT of a certain age may remember when Playboy and Penthouse magazine were battling it out for the king of sleaze..... Of course, until Larry Flint came along with his rag...... Anybody remember the cartoons that were carried by Playboy (Little Annie Fanny) and Penthouse (Wild Wicked Wanda)? Well, WWW had a car that resembled an exaggerated male appendage, so to speak.\n\nSomehow, when looking at the Z3 with the wide rear fenders, I'm reminded of WWW's ride.\nDitto on the E-type. I wonder if that was subliminal appeal the car had that engendered (get it?) the appeal of the car I noted earlier.\n\nLovely car on auction, and it looks like I may be keeping my Z3 for quite a while. GLWA", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1505879904, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1751721, "authorName": "s8ilver", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/s8ilver/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Bonus of lack of roll bars is that you can install the OEM flip up wind deflector like you'd see in a modern SL Merc. The clip-on, zip-up version we roll bar Z/M owners have is a POS in comparison.\n\nhttp://www.ebay.com/itm/BMW-Z3-Wind-Deflector-without-roll-bars-Mesh-Black-/191824363906\n\nhttps://www.amazon.co.uk/Wind-Deflector-without-roll-Black/dp/B00C2R1652", "likes": 1, "timestamp": 1505914398, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1751756, "authorName": "Dann", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/dann/", "bidAmount": 6600, "content": "$6,600 bid placed by Dann", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1505915584, "type": "bat-bid"}, {"id": 1751934, "authorName": "cocranfill", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/cocranfill/", "bidAmount": 6700, "content": "$6,700 bid placed by cocranfill", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1505921992, "type": "bat-bid"}, {"id": 1751936, "authorName": "cocranfill", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/cocranfill/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "@carrey, would you be willing to drive this to Texas in exchange for a plane ticket back to California?", "likes": 1, "timestamp": 1505922080, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1751976, "authorName": "carrey (The Seller)", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/carrey/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "@cocranfill, no but we could look at a hired driver or shipper. Door to door on a truck I got one estimate $750.00. We could split the cost. Didn't research it fully but would consider this option ok!", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1505923391, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1752105, "authorName": "Ricketywings", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/ricketywings/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Cocranfill,\r\n\r\nIt costs about $1100 to $1300 to ship a car between the midwest and the SFO Bay Area where I live. I've done it twice with Reliable Carriers. They were very good about things and the cars arrived in good shape with no funny business. Also, BAT, at one time for certain and maybe even now, listed, or lists, a carrier that probably has a reputation to keep up. It was pretty easy and I found the costs to be only $200 - $300 different than going through all the bother of flying out, getting cab and driving back with the motels and food costs. I just had to wait like a 7-year-old for Christmas to come. \r\n\r\nI don't know the seller but I can say that the Z3 is a fun car that's well-built and under appreciated and I should buy this car. Right now, someone is buying a German sport cars at worn-out VW bug prices. I think that someone will be ending this day a happy person.", "likes": 1, "timestamp": 1505927417, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1752195, "authorName": "Tim_78", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/tim_78/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Very nice example.", "likes": 1, "timestamp": 1505930116, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1752268, "authorName": "Cougar_Guy", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/cougar_guy/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "As a fellow 1996 Z3 owner, I concur with Ricketywings. That said, unless the bids increase dramatically, the seller would be crazy to let it go.", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1505932621, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1752556, "authorName": "carrey (The Seller)", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/carrey/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "@cougar guy - not crazy - it is time to let someone else enjoy this car. We had our fun with it with long drives through Napa with the top down. Doesn't get any better.", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1505936732, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1752783, "authorName": "Silverone23", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/silverone23/", "bidAmount": 6800, "content": "$6,800 bid placed by Silverone23", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1505938784, "type": "bat-bid"}, {"id": 1752840, "authorName": "andyreid", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/andyreid/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Stunned at this low a price", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1505939693, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1752848, "authorName": "Cougar_Guy", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/cougar_guy/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Worth SO much more!", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1505939831, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1752856, "authorName": "NocturnalBidder", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/nocturnalbidder/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "If I wasn't way out here in N.Y. I would bid on this in a heartbeat. No idea how I'd get it across the country though.", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1505939901, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1752870, "authorName": "Ciyo", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/ciyo/", "bidAmount": 6900, "content": "$6,900 bid placed by Ciyo", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1505940030, "type": "bat-bid"}, {"id": 1752872, "authorName": "parke1", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/parke1/", "bidAmount": 7000, "content": "$7,000 bid placed by parke1", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1505940041, "type": "bat-bid"}, {"id": 1752879, "authorName": "Ciyo", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/ciyo/", "bidAmount": 7100, "content": "$7,100 bid placed by Ciyo", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1505940120, "type": "bat-bid"}, {"id": 1752883, "authorName": "xzag", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/xzag/", "bidAmount": 7200, "content": "$7,200 bid placed by xzag", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1505940201, "type": "bat-bid"}, {"id": 1752891, "authorName": "Silverone23", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/silverone23/", "bidAmount": 7300, "content": "$7,300 bid placed by Silverone23", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1505940261, "type": "bat-bid"}, {"id": 1752894, "authorName": "TheHomeHunter", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/thehomehunter/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "6 different bidders last 7 bids. Think we're going a lot higher...", "likes": 1, "timestamp": 1505940270, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1752908, "authorName": "xzag", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/xzag/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "I am praying for a total internet infrastructure outage after my next bid.", "likes": 2, "timestamp": 1505940399, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1752913, "authorName": "NocturnalBidder", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/nocturnalbidder/", "bidAmount": 7400, "content": "$7,400 bid placed by NocturnalBidder", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1505940481, "type": "bat-bid"}, {"id": 1752917, "authorName": "xzag", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/xzag/", "bidAmount": 7500, "content": "$7,500 bid placed by xzag", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1505940518, "type": "bat-bid"}, {"id": 1752920, "authorName": "Cougar_Guy", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/cougar_guy/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "You go, Nocternal! Lots of capable shippers who can bring it to you....", "likes": 1, "timestamp": 1505940542, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1752922, "authorName": "NocturnalBidder", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/nocturnalbidder/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "I should have waited for xzag to bid now that I read his comment lol", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1505940573, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1752923, "authorName": "Gebstr83", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/gebstr83/", "bidAmount": 8000, "content": "$8,000 bid placed by Gebstr83", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1505940576, "type": "bat-bid"}, {"id": 1752928, "authorName": "Cougar_Guy", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/cougar_guy/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "This is a $10,000+ example in a heartbeat.....", "likes": 1, "timestamp": 1505940665, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1752941, "authorName": "Ciyo", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/ciyo/", "bidAmount": 8100, "content": "$8,100 bid placed by Ciyo", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1505940809, "type": "bat-bid"}, {"id": 1752944, "authorName": "NocturnalBidder", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/nocturnalbidder/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "I really want a Z3 to do an LS swap. This one would be perfect too", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1505940872, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1752947, "authorName": "cocranfill", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/cocranfill/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "@NocternalBidder, how about swapping in a Boss engine? I know where you can get one.", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1505940916, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1752948, "authorName": "nobrakes", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/nobrakes/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Back in 1996 I was a real VIP at the BMW dealership, then owning an E36 coupe and short term leasing two or three at a time for me and my corporate lieutenants. As such I got early dibs on the brand new Z3 roadster. Looking back I have come to appreciate the little 4-banger, and really think that from a driving dynamic and pure fun perspective it is a better car than the 6 cylinder that almost immediately replaced it. The 1.9 was far more engaging and allowed you to really explore the limits of the chassis, rowing through the gears was Miataesque. I also like the proportions of the narrower rear end. GLWTS", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1505940933, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1752952, "authorName": "Silverone23", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/silverone23/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "...just down the road, to go with '97 2.8...", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1505940972, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1752953, "authorName": "Cougar_Guy", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/cougar_guy/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Oh Nocternal, you just lost me!!", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1505940978, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1752954, "authorName": "NocturnalBidder", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/nocturnalbidder/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Like an old school Boss or the new Coyote based Boss 302? Either way LS seems a lot simpler. I'd kill for a car this size with a Coyote 5.0 though, if it were feasible lol", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1505941056, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1752956, "authorName": "lewbed", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/lewbed/", "bidAmount": 8200, "content": "$8,200 bid placed by lewbed", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1505941072, "type": "bat-bid"}, {"id": 1752957, "authorName": "Cougar_Guy", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/cougar_guy/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "@Nobrakes, I'm with you. I got on the list for my Z3 in December 1995, pre-production", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1505941075, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1752958, "authorName": "cocranfill", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/cocranfill/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Boss 302.", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1505941078, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1752960, "authorName": "Ciyo", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/ciyo/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Wow just stole my thunder", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1505941103, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1752961, "authorName": "Ciyo", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/ciyo/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "one more bid ???", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1505941134, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1752962, "authorName": "NocturnalBidder", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/nocturnalbidder/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "No way in hell a Coyote would fit between those struts lol\nIt would almost have to be an LS if you wanted a modern V8", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1505941145, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1752963, "authorName": "martinjones", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/martinjones/", "bidAmount": 8300, "content": "$8,300 bid placed by martinjones", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1505941148, "type": "bat-bid"}, {"id": 1752964, "authorName": "Gebstr83", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/gebstr83/", "bidAmount": 8500, "content": "$8,500 bid placed by Gebstr83", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1505941168, "type": "bat-bid"}, {"id": 1752965, "authorName": "lewbed", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/lewbed/", "bidAmount": 8600, "content": "$8,600 bid placed by lewbed", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1505941186, "type": "bat-bid"}, {"id": 1752967, "authorName": "Gebstr83", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/gebstr83/", "bidAmount": 9000, "content": "$9,000 bid placed by Gebstr83", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1505941196, "type": "bat-bid"}, {"id": 1752969, "authorName": "Cougar_Guy", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/cougar_guy/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Now we're approaching it's true value!", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1505941238, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1752972, "authorName": "lewbed", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/lewbed/", "bidAmount": 9100, "content": "$9,100 bid placed by lewbed", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1505941282, "type": "bat-bid"}, {"id": 1752979, "authorName": "Gebstr83", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/gebstr83/", "bidAmount": 9500, "content": "$9,500 bid placed by Gebstr83", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1505941384, "type": "bat-bid"}, {"id": 1752983, "authorName": "Hal9000", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/hal9000/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Still only .25 Vanagons", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1505941420, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1752984, "authorName": "GlenEchoMan", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/glenechoman/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "If only on East Coast :( Someone is going to get a nice one.", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1505941425, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1752987, "authorName": "mwillinger", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/mwillinger/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "I like your style, @Gebstr83.", "likes": 1, "timestamp": 1505941471, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1752991, "authorName": "Gebstr83", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/gebstr83/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Sold on 9/20/17 for $9,500 to Gebstr83", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1505941506, "type": "bat-bid-reserve"}, {"id": 1752993, "authorName": "martinjones", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/martinjones/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Congratulations!", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1505941528, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1752994, "authorName": "Tim_78", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/tim_78/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Congrats to the buyer.", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1505941537, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1752997, "authorName": "Cougar_Guy", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/cougar_guy/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "You'll never regret it, @Gebstr83 !!!!!!", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1505941549, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1752999, "authorName": "Ciyo", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/ciyo/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Nice Car Enjoy !!", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1505941577, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1753001, "authorName": "Willybadger", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/willybadger/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "well bought! congrats @Gebstr83", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1505941580, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1753006, "authorName": "isnospoon", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/isnospoon/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Congratulations!", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1505941730, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1753008, "authorName": "xzag", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/xzag/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "congrats, CFO would not allow me to go higher, otherwise I would have...", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1505941742, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1753012, "authorName": "andyreid", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/andyreid/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Gebster very well bought. You will love the car. Mine is one of my favorites.", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1505941800, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1753029, "authorName": "carrey (The Seller)", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/carrey/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Thank you @Gebstr83 for your winning bid on our car. We are thrilled with the outcome and really enjoyed all of the positive comments. This has been a great experience. Looking forward to turning over the keys to you and letting you enjoy it!", "likes": 1, "timestamp": 1505942042, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1753058, "authorName": "Gebstr83", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/gebstr83/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Nice!\nSeller, I'll contact you when I get home", "likes": 1, "timestamp": 1505942505, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1753169, "authorName": "ace10", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/ace10/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Wow, I liked this car a whole bunch. Had a feeling it was gonna fetch big bucks.", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1505944140, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1753423, "authorName": "jimfreeh", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/jimfreeh/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Just returned from a nice dinner with Linda. Drove our Montreal blue/beige 99 2.3. Nice weather, should have put the top down, but we didn't drive far enough to make it worth while. \n\nSeems that everytime I drive this car, I fall in love with it again.\n\nNote to new owner: \n\nThe only reason I didn't drop the top is because of the fragile plastic rear window.\n\nI've been extremely AR about the top since I replaced the original at a cost close to 1400 dollars. You can get cheaper tops, but I'm a stickler for the Happich fabric, it just looks right on my E320 cab and the Z3. \n\nThere is what I consider a design flaw in the top. Whenever the top is lowered, the top frame rubs on the plastic window. I saw evidence of this rubbing the first time I lowered the new top. There is a rectangular piece of microfiber fabric that BMW sells that you place across the plastic rear window and clip to the top frame before you lower the top. This helps with abrasion scratches. Also, I have a cardboard tube covered with a microfiber towel that I drop into the window area while the top is being folded to minimize the sharp crease. I still end up with creases in the plastic window if I leave the top down for more than a day, and it takes weeks to get them to relax.\n\nCongrats to the new owner, he is going to have a lot of fun with this car!!\n\nJim", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1505955022, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1753709, "authorName": "Ricketywings", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/ricketywings/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "JImfresh,\n\nJust place a cloth towel between the rear plastic and whatever rubs it. I've been doing this and it seems to work well.", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1505967147, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1754221, "authorName": "speroleon", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/speroleon/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Congrats to new owner and seller. Currently racing this car's twin in Colorado region SCCA ITA. One of the original 24 with race conversion by TC Kline. I bought it knowing nothing about Z3's (coming from Miatas) but fell in absolute love with it. Enjoy with top down and plenty of curves.", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1506007510, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1755891, "authorName": "mgacharlie", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/mgacharlie/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "I bought a 2002 Z3 2.5I in Atlanta blue/black about 5 months ago with 29K, and so happy now. My first BMW. Every time I drive it I'm reminded its a special car, well designed, and tremendous fun. At the time, I would have bought a 4 cylinder Z3 but could not find one as nice as this. What an excellent car, the new owner is going to be very happy. Since the purchase, I replaced the seat bushings which had started to go, and added the seat tilt kit which considerably improves seat comfort on long drives. Congratulations, I think this beautiful example traded hands at a very good price for both.", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1506081266, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1755975, "authorName": "Gebstr83", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/gebstr83/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Thanks for all the comments.\nIt's sort of funny how this all came about. I started my sports car crush when in my teens with a Austin Healey that I was not allowed to buy. Moved on to TR-6, Fiat 124, BMW 2002, Mazda RX7 and my last was a TT. Since then, relative boring SUV's except for my current RR Evoque. I am at the time in my life for a toy so I started revisiting my past. Looked into AH 3000's but I am not willing to spend $50K + for a nice one. I then moved on to MGAs. They fit the bill as to old English sports cars and at a reasonable price (mid $20K). I was about to commit to a '59 MGA 1600 for $23 when the BAT bid closing notice came up. I had forgot that I was watching this car. As I looked at it the current price was $7,200. Mind you, I had just started my commute home from Manhattan and was on the FDR so I decided to throw out a bid. By the time I crossed over the Triboro (RFK) bridge I was in the thick of it. Once I hit LaGuardia, I had won. A bit surreal to say the least. Now, basking in the after glow, I am making the arrangements for shipping the car from Cali to L.I. NY and thinking about how this all came about. This car was not something I was looking for but I will admit that it always caught my eye as a modern version of my old English convertibles.\nAnyway, I am excited to receive my car. My only regret is that I didn't do this last Spring. Fall is here and winter is coming so the top down driving to the North Fork Winery's will be limited. Oh well, the Spring will be here soon enough.\n\nBTW, If any of you know of a reliable shipping company, please pass it on.", "likes": 1, "timestamp": 1506086045, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1757301, "authorName": "Cougar_Guy", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/cougar_guy/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "@Gebstr83: I'm sure that any number of Californians would be only too happy to babysit your new wheels over the upcoming winter! BTW, I have California vanity plate \"96 Z3\" on mine; you might check whether it's available in NY. I used to routinely ship my BMW's between my former home in MA and my home in CA. The best (and most expensive) shipper is Horseless Carriage. You'll pay more, but you got such a great deal on the car, so perhaps spend a bit more on shipping for peace of mind. Whoever you use, pay extra for an enclosed truck, and insist upon yours being on the top row. As pointed out by @jimfreeh, replacement tops are expensive, and you don't want to risk fluids dripping from a car above yours. You'll never have as much fun in an automobile as with this car!", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1506116797, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1757600, "authorName": "jimfreeh", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/jimfreeh/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "@Gebstr83: If you enjoy olde English sports cars, chances are you are going to enjoy the Z3. Especially the first time you are caught out in the rain with the top down, and you can just flip the top up and quickly have a dry interior. Try that in a MGB!\n\nSwapping between Linda's 68 MGB and our 99 Z3 2.3 brings out the similarities between the cars. Both have that \"go cart\" steering, where the front wheels are connected to your brain, both are small, light cars (more so MGB) and have an agility that is missing in larger machines. \n\nLove them both!\n\nThe only problem with the Z3 so far is that the exhaust is too quiet!\n\nJim", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1506127230, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1758119, "authorName": "Gebstr83", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/gebstr83/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "You all are the best.\nI went through a little buyers remorse yesterday because this car was not what I was shooting for. Now, I feel like I am 18 again and pissed that it will take 10 days to get her here.\nIf any car can be termed \"rational \", this is it. My son is texting me that this is a great car to learn to \"drive a stick\" on. I agree, the thought of him rowing through a 50 year old MGA tranny was scary. My daughter is telling me that I will kill my self in a sports car at my age (62). Me, I figured that with my knees and back, this was my last chance for driving fun. I drive 125 total miles a day back and forth to work. My staff kids me about it because I always say that I love to drive. Granted, in can get a bit arduous but in my RR Evoque it mellows out the grind.\nAs I said, I feel like a kid at Christmas and can't wait to open up my ultimate present.\nThanks all, I truly appreciate your support.", "likes": 1, "timestamp": 1506180061, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1759193, "authorName": "OnerousEthic", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/onerousethic/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "@Gebstr83 OMG this is such a nice car - please look me up (I am not kidding!) when you get ready to sell it! And please don't be afraid to put your foot to the floor every (responsible) chance that you get! That is the joy of driving these roadsters!", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1506295677, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1765788, "authorName": "AndrewC", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/andrewc/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "I had my Boston Green 97 1.9L out today in Boston. Top down, AC blasting it was a slice of heaven. You will love it.", "likes": 1, "timestamp": 1506570123, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1823475, "authorName": "Gebstr83", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/gebstr83/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Just an update.\nThe car arrived 3 weeks ago and after hours of detailing the multiple surface scratches are gone and the car is looking good. It took a lot work but it was worth it.\nNow for the bad. The PO left out the fact that they lost the title. One would think that if you put your car up for auction the first thing you would do is make sure you have all your paperwork in order. This PO, noooo.... needless to say I still do have the car registered and am still waiting for the title. Three weekends of great weather and I cannot drive the car.\nLesson to all, make sure the person you are buying from has the title in hand before before you bid or buy the car.\nVery frustrating!", "likes": 2, "timestamp": 1509250449, "type": "comment"}]