34,100 Original Miles
Manual Transmission
3.2L Inline 6
315 hp @ 7400 RPM*
251 lb/ft torque @ 4900 RPM*
Capable 0-60 MPH: 4.7 seconds
Top Speed: 162 mph
*Base Price in 2001: $45,990
*Seller Asking:
$18,500
Fast Facts:
- Prior to 2001, the U.S. M3 and Z3 M had wildly different engines compared to their European offerings, and BMW hated this just as much as enthusiasts. It’s expensive to produce two different engines for one model, so BMW decided to develop a replacement engine that would suit both the American and European market laws with minimal (if any) differences. This engine became known as the S54
- While it was still labeled as a 3.2L, the S54 is slightly bigger (3246cc) due to a larger bore. The aluminum cylinder head is now cast as a single piece for weight savings, and the compression ratio is raised to 11.5:1. New camshafts are used, and new finger-type rocker arms reduce both reciprocating weight and friction. A double VANOS (variable valve timing) system replaced the old single VANOS setup
- The updated engine management system (MSS54), again jointly developed by BMW and Siemens, could now operate six individual throttle bodies – all via drive-by-wire. The electronic throttle allows for two M Dynamic Driving Control response modes
- While BMW had switched nearly all of their engines to aluminum, the S54 was kept as cast iron, which was more suitable for high RPM operation. The stronger composition meant less material was needed throughout the block – the cylinders could therefore sit closer together, making the engine compact. The S54 also featured a new scavenging oil pump to minimize oil starvation under hard cornering forces
- When the S54 was unveiled in the new E46 M3, it had the highest specific output of any naturally aspirated engine in BMW’s history (excluding the McLaren F1). With its wide powerband and screaming 8,000 RPM redline, the S54 was crowned “Best New Engine” in the International Engine of the Year competition, as well as “Engine of the Year” in 2001
- The 75 horsepower increase over the S52 didn’t feel as obvious to buyers, however. There was only a modest increase in torque (12 ft lbs), and peak torque arrived over 1000 RPM later (4900 RPM versus 3800 RPM). Since horsepower doesn’t peak until a whopping 7400 RPM in the S54, both the old and new car feel similar around town, especially since the new one came with a (slightly) reduced final drive ratio. The power difference isn’t felt until higher up in the RPMs, where the S54 will leave an S52 in the dust
- The Z3 uses the semi-trailing arm suspension from the E30/E30 M3. The rest of the suspension is shared with the E36. The brakes were to be sourced from the E36 M3 Evo cars, but this idea was dropped last minute
Key Model Year Changes:
- 2001 MY cars received the biggest changes for the Z3 M during its entire production:
- The M Roadsters now share the Coupe’s stiffer suspension
- New S54 3.2L engine from the M3, which had 75 horsepower more than the old S52 engine
- The Z3 M did not receive any of the exterior updates found on the regular Z3 models. The body parts allocated for the Z3 M at the start were enough to last through the end of production. The only exception was the darker, Chrome Shadow finish for the wheels, as well as an updated “M” badge
- Dynamic stability control is now standard, replacing Automatic Stability Control plus Traction (ASC+T)
- Rear axle ratio is reduced from 3.23 to 3.15
- Now features a tire pressure monitoring system
- Grey faced gauges replaced the previous year’s black faced gauges. New 170 MPH speedo shared w/ the European models
- The new chrome rear-view mirror is smaller and now has an auto-dimming function
- 34k original miles
- Rare color combo
- Garage kept Florida car
- Drives great!
- Downsizing and looking to sell
- Location: Fort Myers, Florida – (more photos below)
- Update: ad is no longer available (sold or expired)
– Click for shipping quote –
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*SAE rated from factory. May not reflect current output.
*Performance numbers pulled from either the factory brochure or reputable automotive road tests.
*Base price when new does not reflect original MSRP of this particular car, nor does it reflect what the original owner paid for it.
*Advertised price at time of posting. Sellers can raise or lower prices on their original ad at any time. Click on the original ad to view current price/availability.
*Performance numbers pulled from either the factory brochure or reputable automotive road tests.
*Base price when new does not reflect original MSRP of this particular car, nor does it reflect what the original owner paid for it.
*Advertised price at time of posting. Sellers can raise or lower prices on their original ad at any time. Click on the original ad to view current price/availability.
Mileage Disclaimer: NOC has not confirmed if the mileage stated by the seller is true and accurate. It is up to the buyer to verify these claims. Vehicle history reports, service records stating mileage, and even inspections of odometer tampering are recommended.
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