1998 BMW Z3 M ROADSTER is available now at classified from Car and Classic Classifieds

Launched in 1997, the Z3M was the fastest-accelerating production BMW ever at the time of its introduction. Having been developed in secret by the engineers of BMW’s M division for performance-enhanced luxury models (because management had no plans for such a car), the M Roadster matched the engine, transmission and brakes from the E36-generation M3 with a revised Z3 body. 

The 3.2-litre in-line six-cylinder engine, known as the S50, produced 321bhp and 258lb/ft of torque that translated into a scorching 0-60mph time of 5.0 seconds and a top speed of 155mph. The M roadster is effectively a BMW M3 in a small sportscar body, and a completely different beast to the regular Z3. 

This was the proper driver’s car that buyers wanted; the project was eventually given the green light and the roadster was introduced in 1997, the coupé appearing a year later. Time has been kind to the design and the Z3 is now a sought-after car, with the Z3 M the most desirable iteration and a true modern classic.