1996 BMW Z3 Roadster • 5-Speed Manual • Restoration Project

I'm selling my 1996 BMW Z3 because it's become a larger project than I want to take on. I'd rather see it go to someone who enjoys bringing these cars back to life.

This is the first model year of the BMW Z3, equipped with the desirable 5-speed manual transmission and proven E36 mechanicals. It's a classic analog BMW roadster and a great platform for someone looking for an honest restoration project.

The car has been in the same family since new. My father purchased it new and gave it to me several years ago. After spending time evaluating the car, I decided it was a larger project than I want to tackle. I have maintenance records and receipts from throughout its life that I'm happy to share with serious buyers. The BMW soft top was replaced with a genuine BMW top around 2015–2017 (according to my father). We haven't located the receipt, but the top is in excellent condition.

Before the car was put into storage, several thousand dollars of documented mechanical work was completed, including:

Rear shocks and upper shock mounts
Both rear axle assemblies
Center and rear exhaust components
A/C service including receiver/drier and heater control valve
Front brake rotors, pads, parking brake cables, and parking brake shoes
Current Mechanical Condition

The car starts and runs, but it should be considered a project.

I recently had it inspected by a trusted local mechanic to get an honest assessment before listing it for sale. His findings were:

Alternator has an internal short that drains the battery and should be replaced.
Brake lines are rotted and should be replaced. The rear brakes are currently inoperative because of a leaking rear brake line.
Fuel lines are rotted and should be replaced.
Interior has a lingering mouse odor from storage. I've cleaned it extensively, but the smell has not been completely eliminated.
New York State inspection is currently valid through July 2026.

I've included detailed photos of the undercarriage so buyers can judge the condition for themselves. I'm also happy to share the maintenance records and receipts that I have with serious buyers.

This isn't a cheap summer convertible or a car I'm trying to make sound better than it is. It's an honest, one-family Z3 that deserves an owner who enjoys bringing older BMWs back to life. If you've restored E36s, owned Z3s, or simply enjoy working on classic BMWs, you'll know exactly what this car is.

Clean title in my name.

Many more photos and cold start video available.

Current location Damascus, Pennsylvania.