Anyone searching for an exhilarating open-air driving experience should strongly consider the M Roadster. BMW's high-performance convertible was available for several years across two generations. The first-generation M Roadster was manufactured in the late 1990s through the early 2000s and is known as the E37 Z3 M Roadster. The 2001 and 2002 model years are the most desirable since they use the more powerful E46 M3 engine instead of the E36 M3 engine found in the early model years.
Although beauty is in the eye of the beholder, it's hard not to have a soft spot for the classic styling of the BMW Z3 M Roadster compared to the more modernly styled Z4 M Roadster. Also, the Z3 gets some nostalgia bonus points because James Bond drove one in Golden Eye.
While some prefer the styling of the first-generation M Roadster, almost no one will deny that the second-generation E85 Z4 M Roadster is superior in performance and build quality. One of the most notable upgrades was the redesigned rear suspension that swapped the outdated semi-trailing arm design for a more advanced multi-link design. There was also a slight increase in power output, but not enough to make a noticeable difference in real-world driving scenarios.
BMW M Roadster Generations
Used BMW M Roadster Prices by Generation
- BMW E37 M Roadster - $22,475 Average Price
- BMW E85 M Roadster - $26,610 Average Price