BMW Z3 CLASSIC CAR HIRE

drive it from £199

BMW's answer to the late 1990s car company race to launch affordable convertibles was the diminutive Z3. With distinctive retro looks and clearly channeling BMW's sporting DNA thanks to its use of 3 Series oily bits, the new car was the firm's first sports convertible for several decades. And BMW worked hard to ensure it was a winner.

The first cars, however, weren't. That was mainly due to them using the firm's old and not particularly quick 1.9 4 cylinder engine. With just 140 bhp, the Z3 looked quick and sporty. But wasn't really.

That all changed with the introduction, two years after launch, of the 6 cylinder 2.8 version. Much more power plus a sizzling straight six soundtrack transformed the Z3 into a proper sports car, delivering performance to match the chassis and 6 second 0-60 sprints. Many engine variants followed by the 2.8 - and the ultra rare 3.0 - remain the most desirable Z3 versions.

It's over 25 years since the first Z3 hit the the showrooms, making it a proper bonafide classic. So we had to add one to our fleet. And it had to be a 2.8. Our car is an early 2.8 'wide body', which means it benefits from improved looks and handling compared to earlier cars. It's a manual of course, but also benefits from creature comforts like an electric roof, electric windows and even heated leather seats.

At Great Driving Days we are all about the drive. The Z3 is a hugely entertaining sports car that you delivers smiles per mile and which you can step out of still feeling fresh. And enervated.

The Z3 is available to hire as part of our Driving Trail and Daily Hire packages.

To find out more call 01527 893733 or email info@greatdrivingdays.co.uk