I was looking at a Miata and liked it a lot except for one thing:
> I would have to cut 4 inches of my right leg to get it between
> the steering wheel and the transmission tunnel!
>
> So I am thinking I should consider a Z-3 Roadster. Any
> opinions here pro or con? One thing that bothered me
> a little is that the BMW dealer seems to have a VERY large
> inventory of used Z cars. Is it because Columbus is getting
> a real winter for the first time in 25 years?
> Thank you.
>
> Fritz Wagner
> Columbus, Ohio
Hey Fritz, I did the same thing: Test drove a Miata, loved it, but realized it was just too cramped for my large-sized frame. Then I test drove a Z3, and forgot all about the Miata! I found a beautiful 2000 Z3 Roadster (2.3) with 77k miles on Ebay for $13,600 (plus truck freight and tax) from a wholesale dealer in TX, and I could not be happier (that's below wholesale, and no dings).
The Z3 is a magical car. I've never had a car that drew so much attention from the opposite sex. The 2000's seem to be a good model year with very few problems, nicer looking rear fenders, better speakers, chrome trim upgrades, etc. Get heated seats - women love 'em and you will too.
If the dealer is sitting on some surplus inventory, you should be able to cut a sweet deal. You might also try Ebay. I bought from Lone Star Cars in Plano, TX, and they were square dealers, no surprises.
Let us know what you end up buying.
R