Doug's Take
The BMW Z3 M Coupe is a very interesting -- and increasingly desirable -- performance car, that touts an exceptionally unusual body style with a hatchback-ish rear end that lends itself to the car's nickname, "clown shoe." This M Coupe has some nice benefits, including a gorgeous Imola Red exterior color -- and it also boasts a clean, accident-free Carfax report, along with a few desirable modifications.
Highlights
THIS... is a 2000 BMW M Coupe, finished in Imola Red with a black leather interior.
- The attached Carfax history report indicates no accidents or mileage discrepancies. It also shows the car has been primarily registered in Texas since new.
- Factory equipment includes a Harman/Kardon sound system, power-adjustable and heated sport seats, a sunroof, a limited-slip differential, and more as detailed below.
- Modifications made to this M Coupe includes the installation of Bilstein struts, reinforced rear subframe, an intake manifold from an earlier model, a Pioneer head unit, and an AKG Motorsport shifter.
- The E36/8, or "Clownshoe", M Coupe has become sought-after by enthusiasts for its unconventional aesthetic and engaging driving experience. Built as a hybrid of the E30 and E36 chassis, the M Coupe combines hatchback practicality, a capable engine, and a competent chassis in one, analog package.
- This M Coupe is powered by an "S52" 3.2-liter inline-6 engine, rated at 240 horsepower and 236 lb-ft of torque. Output is sent to the rear wheel via a 5-speed manual transmission.
Equipment
A build sheet is provided in the gallery, and a partial list of notable equipment includes:
- 17-inch Style 40 wheels
- 5-speed manual transmission
- Limited-slip differential
- All-Season Traction (ASC)
- Sunroof
- Nappa leather upholstery
- Power-adjustable and heated sport seats
- M sport leather-wrapped steering wheel
- Harman/Kardon sound system
Modifications
- Bilstein struts
- Reinforced rear subframe
- Intake manifold from earlier model
- Pioneer head unit
- AKG Motorsport shifter
Known Flaws
- The seller states that the hood and rear bumper were re-sprayed reportedly due to rock chips and scratches; no incident is indicated on the Carfax report.
- Rock chips on hood and front bumper (pictured in the photo gallery)
- Scratch on hood (pictured in the photo gallery)
- Scratches on roof trim
- Fade on hatch spoiler
- Wear on driver's seat
- Clutch pedal and bushings squeak
- Throw out bearing makes noise while the clutch is depressed
Recent Service History
The seller reports that the following maintenance has been performed, but no service documentation is available:
- Engine oil and filter changed
- Coolant flushed
- Radiator replaced, fan replaced, fan clutch replaced, water pump replaced, thermostat replaced, coolant tank replaced, hoses replaced
- Rear brakes replaced
- Air filter and belts replaced
- Four Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tires installed
Other Items Included in Sale
- 2 keys with working fobs
- Owner's manual
- Factory lower shifter selector rod
- Aftermarket silicone hoses (uninstalled)
Ownership History
The seller has owned this M Coupe since September 2013 and has added approximately 4,000 miles since.