Introduced in 1997 as a high-performance version of the Z3 Roadster, the M Roadster features an M3-derived inline-six paired with a 5-speed manual transmission and a limited-slip differential, along with widened bodywork, model-specific aerodynamic enhancements, an M-tuned sport suspension, and larger brakes sourced from the E36 M3. This 2001 example is reportedly one of approximately 173 North American units factory-equipped with an S54 engine, an Estoril Blue Metallic exterior, and an Estoril Blue and Black Nappa leather interior. Acquired by the seller in 2015 at approximately 52k miles, this meticulously maintained Z3 M Roadster is now being offered for auction out of New York with under 57k miles showing on the odometer.
Compared to the standard BMW Z3, the M Roadster features a wider rear track, aerodynamic wing mirrors, revised bumpers, unique side vents, and quad exhaust outlets. This example is finished in Estoril Blue Metallic (335) with a matching blue convertible top and rides on factory 17” Style 40 “Roadstar” wheels. A set of ECS 15mm front spacers and 10mm rear spacers have been installed, and 17” Apex ARC-8 wheels mounted with Falken RT660 tires will also accompany the sale. Modifications include OEM magnetic rock guards, smoked paint protection film on the taillights, rear trunk brake light, and side marker lights, as well as satin black paint protection film on the front and fender grilles. The OEM rear convertible window was professionally replaced at AutoMat in Hicksville, New York. The seller notes minor paint imperfections consistent with age, though emphasizes that the finish is free of swirls thanks to professional detailing. Detailed images are provided in the gallery along with a clean CARFAX report.
The cabin features Estoril Blue and Black Nappa leather sport seats with a matching dashboard, center console, and door panels. Model-specific details include M Roadster-branded door sill plates, chrome-ringed M instrumentation, and a leather-wrapped M Sport steering wheel. The seller notes the installation of a custom-wrapped OEM flat-bottom steering wheel with M tri-color stitching, as well as an OEM ZHP weighted shift knob. The original steering wheel and illuminated M shift knob are included in the sale. Minor signs of wear are noted throughout the interior, although all gauges, electronics, and accessories are confirmed to be in proper working order.
Power comes from a 3.2-liter S54 inline-six engine derived from the E46 M3, factory-rated at 315 HP and 252 lb.-ft of torque. A 5-speed manual transmission and limited-slip differential drive the rear wheels, enabling 0–60 MPH acceleration in approximately 5 seconds. Performance features include an M-tuned suspension with a lower ride height, stiffer springs and dampers, strengthened semi-trailing arms, and a reinforced rear subframe. Modifications added by the seller include H&R springs, Bilstein shocks and struts, OEM top hats, and a Mason Engineering front strut tower brace. No outstanding maintenance items have been reported.
This sale will include a clean title.
The seller would like you to know: “Thank you for visiting my auction. I've owned this car for 10 years, and it has been my baby. The car has been garage-kept in a climate-controlled garage and on a trickle charger and flat stoppers as needed. All maintenance is up to date. For the purposes of the auction, I conducted a Pre-Purchase Inspection and oil analysis to ensure your peace of mind. The rear window was professionally replaced with a new OEM window. The suspension was refreshed with H&R springs, Bilstein shocks and struts, and new top hats about 3 years ago.”
Comments (12)
Driving videos have been added to the listing page.
@Porschecarl thanks for visiting my auction. I’ve requested additional driving videos be uploaded. I do not have a paint meter reading. The car is super clean and I would expect the paint to be within the industry standard considering it’s the original paint and accident free per the carfax. Maybe pcarmarket can get a paint meter reading posted as the car is currently located at their headquarters.
@MRoadsterMike, Will you be posting any paint meter readings and driving videos?
Gorgeous! Waiting for someone to ask about the elephant in the room.
Bid in the amount of $7,500
These are so underrated. Spec is beautiful too. GLWS!
Tom from BavWerks here — we performed a full pre-sale inspection on this car for the current owner. As part of our process, we went through the vehicle thoroughly, checking all major systems and components for anything that might need immediate attention or affect a future sale. Everything checked out clean, with no mechanical or safety concerns worth noting.
To further confirm engine health, we also sent an oil sample to Blackstone Laboratories for analysis, specifically to assess rod bearing condition and overall internal wear. The results came back strong, with no concerns.
As for the valve adjustment — it wasn’t something we found necessary to address at the time of inspection.
@midcont thanks for visiting my auction. The brake calipers were painted for my own enjoyment. I like the contrast of the neon yellow against the blue. Otherwise, the calipers are the original oem m calipers (just painted). As far as a valve adjustment goes, I don’t have any record of the last valve adjustment. However, at the time of the pre-purchase inspection, it was not recommended. I can ask BavWerks to chime in here and comment on the mechanical condition of the car and answer any other specific mechanical questions or address any concerns you may have.
What's the story with the brake calipers?
When was the last valve adjustment done?
@zollerm Thanks for visiting my auction. I uploaded a few more photos with the top up. I’ve requested additional photos be added. If you have any questions I’m here to answer them.
Additional content has been added to the gallery for this listing.
May we see some pics with the top up along with the new rear window? Thank you.