Doug's Take
Now THIS is a truly special BMW! Like so many iconic cars, the M Coupe wasn't hugely desirable when it was new – but it has now become one of the single most sought-after BMW models, with many enthusiasts desperate to get their hands on one. That's especially true of the M Coupe models powered by the S54 engine like this car, as BMW made just 678 of these for North America – and this engine is particularly desirable given the huge power bump over the earlier, more common S52-powered cars. This particular M Coupe is finished in an absolutely stunning Estoril Blue Metallic over black and gray color combination, and it touts reasonably low mileage. It also features some great upgrades from desirable brands like Dinan, Brembo, and Enkei. Plus, this M Coupe comes with a clean, accident-free Carfax report, for added peace of mind.
Highlights
THIS… is a 2001 BMW Z3 M Coupe, finished in Estoril Blue Metallic with a black and gray interior.
- This Z3 M Coupe features a 5-speed manual transmission.
- The attached Carfax history report lists no accidents or mileage discrepancies in this BMW’s past.
- Factory equipment includes a limited-slip differential, a power sunroof, Nappa leather upholstery, an M sport leather-wrapped steering wheel, air conditioning, and a Harman/Kardon sound system, among others listed below.
- Modifications reported by the seller include 19-inch Enkei RPF1 wheels, a 3.46 4-disc variable limited slip differential, Dinan high flow cold air intake, Dinan free flow exhaust, Brembo GT 355 brake calipers, clear marker lights, black kidney grilles, and an aftermarket shift knob, among others listed below.
- 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.
- Power comes from an S54 3.2-liter inline-6, rated at 315 horsepower and 251 lb-ft of torque. This engine may be making more power as a result of the modifications, though a dyno sheet is not included. Output is sent to the rear wheels via a 5-speed manual transmission.
Equipment
A window sticker is provided in the photo gallery, and a partial list of notable equipment includes:
- Power-operated sunroof
- Nappa leather upholstery
- Heated and power-adjustable seats
- M sport leather-wrapped steering wheel
- Power windows, locks, and mirrors
- Center console-mounted VDO ambient temperature and oil temperature gauges
- Harman/Kardon sound system
- Air conditioning
- Cruise control
Modifications
Modifications reported by the seller include:
Mechanical
- Dinan Stage 3 engine software
- Dinan front strut brace
- Dinan high flow cold air intake
- Dinan free flow exhaust
- 3.46 4-disc variable limited slip differential
- Brembo GT 355 brake calipers
- UUC EVO3 short shift kit
- UUC dual flywheel
- UUC clutch
- UUC Clutch Stop
- Randy Forbes subframe reinforcement
- Rogue Engineering E46 dual ear differential cover
Exterior and Interior
- 19-inch Enkei RPF1 wheels
- Clear marker lights
- Black kidney grilles
- Dinan rear badge
- Aftermarket shift knob
- LeatherZ center and door armrests
- Sticker on traction control button
- Dinan Pedal Covers
Known Flaws
A Lemon Squad pre-purchase inspection is included with this listing. The following flaws are additionally pictured in the gallery:
- Some scratches throughout vehicle
- Rock chips on hood and front bumper
- Ding on passenger's side skirt
- 2013 date code on tires
- Leather is loose on aftermarket center armrest
- Some wear on seats
- Some wear on carpet
- The seller states the power steering feed and return hoses are seeping.
Recent Service History
The seller reports that the following services have been performed:
- June 2023: Engine oil and filter changed, maintenance inspection completed, transmission mounts replaced
- April 2022: Engine oil and filter changed
- November 2020: DSC unit replaced
- September 2020: Engine oil and filter changed, parking brake adjusted, fuel tank vent valve replaced
Other Items Included in Sale
- 2 keys
- Owner's manual
- Window sticker
- Factory literature
- Adjustable camber kit
- Factory kidney grilles
- Headlight hardware
- Bentley service manual
Ownership History
The seller purchased this Z3 M Coupe in January 2014 and has added approximately 3,400 miles since.
Seller Notes
The seller states the front bumper was resprayed due to a crack. Please contact the seller directly with any questions.
Previous Listing:
Mileage: ≈ 60,675 miles (bought with 57,520 miles on 1/21/2014)
Exterior Color: Estoril Blue Metallic
Interior Color: Dark Gray & Black Nappa
Engine: S54
Rarity: 1 of 4
View Production Information
Vehicle Highlights
- Appraisal performed by Perry-Payne Appraisal, LLC on 12/12/20 @ 60,301 miles
- Vehicle Condition #2
- Current Hagerty Valuation for Condition #2 vehicle = $73,000
- Clean Carfax
- All original panels and paint, except front bumper respray
- New transmission mounts
- New DSC Unit
- 60K miles service performed
- UUC dual fly wheel clutch and clutch MC/braided line
- Big boy clutch stop
- UUC clutch pedal upgrade with brass bushing
- Randy Forbes Subframe Reinforcement
- S54 Connecting Rod Bearing Replacement Kit
- Dinan Stage 3 Suspension
- Dinan Front Strut Brace
- Dinan Free Flow Exhaust
- Dinan High Flow Cold Air Intake
- Dinan Stage 3 Engine Software
- Dinan Pedal Covers
- Enkei 19" RPF1 Aluminum Wheels 19x8.5, 19x10
- Brembo GT 355 4 Caliper Front
- Brembo GT 328 4 Caliper Rear
- UUC EVO3 Short Shift Kit
- Rogue Engineering E46 Dual Ear Diff Cover
- 3.46 4 Disc Variable Limited Slip Differential
- LeatherZ center and door armrests
- clear marker lights
Flaws
- Rock chips on the nose, a few paint defects
- Tires require replacement
- Seepage from PS feed and return hoses noted
- LeatherZ center armrest leather is now loose
- Partial (but extensive!) vehicle history and receipts
Included with the sale:
- Adjustable Camber Kit (to be installed)
- Original silver Kidney Grills
- Hardware for the Angel Eyes upgrade
- Bentley Service Manual
Unfortunately, due to the nature of my job I have been unable to enjoy this car as much as I wanted to (3,000 miles in 8 years!). This is a fantastic and very fast car that will certainly continue to rise in value and collectability. The car continues to be accident free, original paint and with matching VIN tags on all panels. I have the partial documentation that came with the car in addition to all repairs under my ownership in a binder. The original window sticker although in rough condition is included and very legible.
Interested parties please contact:
Jose Ismael Rodriguez