2002 BMW Z3 Series: Road Test
2002 BMW Z3 Series ▼
- MSRP: $31,300 - $45,990
- Invoice: $28,645 - $42,010
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Our road test for the 2002 BMW Z3 Series includes a full evaluation of the 2002 BMW Z3 Series from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2002 BMW Z3 Series, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2002 BMW Z3 Series help you decide if a 2002 BMW Z3 Series is right for you.
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ACCELERATION
| 2.5i, man. | 3.0i hatch, man. | M-Series conv | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 10 | 7.8 |
Test manual-transmission 2.5i did 0-60 mph in a brisk 7.0 sec and had ample midrange punch. Test manual 3.0i hatchback felt more muscular--BMW lists 0-60 at 5.9 sec--but isn't significantly quicker in everyday driving. M models are rockets; BMW's 5-sec 0-60 claim is entirely credible.
FUEL ECONOMY
| 2.5i, man. | 3.0i hatch, man. | M-Series conv | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 5 | 4.6 |
Test 2.5i/manual averaged 18.6 mpg with performance tests. Test 3.0i/manual hatchback returned 19.7 with more highway driving. Test M3 convertible averaged 19.5 with lots of highway driving. All engines require premium fuel.
RIDE QUALITY
| 2.5i, man. | 3.0i hatch, man. | M-Series conv | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4 | 4 | 3 | 4 |
Acceptable for sports cars, but can be abrupt on rougher roads. M models are even stiffer and their tires thump loudly over bumps. All suffer tiresome "freeway hop."
STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING
| 2.5i, man. | 3.0i hatch, man. | M-Series conv | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8 | 9 | 9 | 8.3 |
Stable, nearly flat cornering, but the tail can be unruly on bumpy surfaces despite standard traction/antiskid system. Coupes have more-precise handling than the less-rigid convertibles. Large ABS 4-wheel discs make no-sweat, very short emergency stops.
QUIETNESS
| 2.5i, man. | 3.0i hatch, man. | M-Series conv | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2 | 3 | 2 | 3.6 |
Quieter overall than a Porsche Boxster or Honda S2000, but marked tire and exhaust noise most anywhere anytime; convertibles add expected top-up wind whoosh. Engines sound pleasantly racy, though.
CONTROLS
| 2.5i, man. | 3.0i hatch, man. | M-Series conv | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 6 | 5.3 |
Typical BMW and mostly good, but some interior plastics border on economy grade.
ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)
| 2.5i, man. | 3.0i hatch, man. | M-Series conv | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3 | 4 | 3 | 5.1 |
Tighter than a Mercedes SLK, but room enough for 6-footers. Seats well-bolstered but a tad thin on padding. Low build makes entry/exit tricky for many people. Standard power seat, but steering wheel doesn't adjust.
ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)
| 2.5i, man. | 3.0i hatch, man. | M-Series conv | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0 | 0 | 0 | .6 |
(No rear seating.)
CARGO ROOM
| 2.5i, man. | 3.0i hatch, man. | M-Series conv | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 2 | 1 | 2.1 |
Convertible trunks are small with openings to match. Hatchbacks offer more space and easier loading, but you'll still need to travel light.
VALUE WITHIN CLASS
| 2.5i, man. | 3.0i hatch, man. | M-Series conv | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 4 | 5 | 4.2 |
Newer rivals such as the Honda S2000 and Porsche Boxster feel more solid than any convertible iteration of this BMW. Still, Z3s are capable and entertaining sports cars, with their highish prices partly offset by BMW's strong resale values. We judge the 2.5i the best dollar value, though 3.0i models are slightly quicker, more-relaxed performers.
Total Score
| 2.5i, man. | 3.0i hatch, man. | M-Series conv | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 42 | 44 | 44 | 45.6 |
Total Score: 42
Scores for all Premium Sporty/performance Cars
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