This smaller and cheaper platform used the rear semi-trailing arm suspension design from the older E30 3 Series.

[9] The Z3 Coupé shares the identical platform and parts with the roadster, but features a chassis-stiffening hatch area and is 2.7 times stiffer in comparison.

[12] The unusual side profile has been given nicknames such as "clown shoe" and "bread van" by critics.

Compared to the standard Z3, M models featured a limited slip differential, a wider rear track,[15] and larger brakes (that are shared with the E36 M3).

M models were available in M-specific colors and feature numerous aesthetic and aerodynamic differences versus the rest of the Z3 range, including more aerodynamic wing-mirrors, redesigned front and rear bumpers, bespoke "Roadstar" Style 40 wheels, revised side gills, and quad exhaust pipes.

BMW and Neiman Marcus had originally set a 20-unit sales goal, but this was later increased to 100 units after receiving a high level of interest from customers.

The James Bond Edition was based on the Z3 1.9i and included a 007 dash plaque, 007 floor mats, unique wheels, and chrome exterior trim.

The color scheme was an "Atlanta blue" exterior with beige leather interior, matching the Z3 which appeared in GoldenEye.

[24] It is based on the Z3 roadster, has 17 inch wheels with 225/45 tires up front and 245/40 at the rear, and is painted in a shade of orange.

This break in tradition was due to a three-film licensing deal between BMW and the James Bond franchise that began with GoldenEye and ended with The World Is Not Enough.

[44] The Z3 in GoldenEye features stinger missiles hidden behind the headlights, an emergency parachute braking system, and a radar scanner in the form of a LCD screen in the dashboard.

[45] It is also noted during the briefing scene that the car contains a passenger ejector seat and a self-destruct system, though they aren't used at any point in the film.

Fans of the franchise were not enthused with the BMW product placement, all the more so since the Z3 never was given a scene in which to use the weaponry and defense features that have always distinguished a James Bond car.

[47][48] The agreement between BMW and Eon Productions was for cross-promotion of the car and the film, and no money changed hands.