2001 BMW Z3 2.2L Petrol · LC51 ANC
2001 BMW Z3 (2.2L, petrol). First registered 19/09/2001. Recorded mileage 27,558 miles. MOT valid until 19/03/2027.
- Make & Model
- BMW Z3
- Year / Origin
- 2001 · Stanmore (North London)
- Safety Recall
- Unknown
- MOT Status
- Valid until 19/03/2027
- Road Tax
- Taxed
- Recorded Mileage
- 27,558 mi
- ULEZ Compliance
- Check Required (Pre-Euro 4 Petrol)
- Fuel & Engine
- Petrol · 2.2L
- Reliability Guide
- Common Faults
- Fuel Type
- Petrol
- Year
- 2001
- Engine
- 2171cc
LC51 ANC Key Findings
- 5 MOT tests recorded
- Latest MOT passed on 20/03/2026
- 27,558 miles recorded at latest MOT
- 1 historical MOT failure
- 3 defects noted at the latest MOT
- Recurring brakes items (6 mentions)
Derived directly from the recorded DVSA and DVLA data shown on this page.
MOT Roadworthiness: Good
This rating reflects historical MOT pass rates and recurring advisory wear patterns from official DVSA test logs. Note that roadworthiness does not verify outstanding finance, insurance write-offs, or stolen records.
Verify lender finance agreements, insurance write-offs, police stolen registers, and mileage rollback.
Technical Specifications
Core Specifications
Identification & Status
Dimensions & Weights
Diagnostic & Valuation Intelligence
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LC51 ANC Mileage History
- 13/03/202326,028 mi
- 13/03/202326,028 mi
- 15/03/202427,244 mi+1,216 mi
- 04/03/202527,422 mi+178 mi
- 20/03/202627,558 mi+136 mi
Average of roughly 507 miles per year across 5 recorded odometer readings.
LC51 ANC MOT History
Interpretation generated from the recorded test data above — not an official DVSA statement and not a substitute for an independent inspection.
5 MOT tests are recorded for this 2001 BMW Z3 (LC51 ANC) between March 2023 and March 2026.
The record contains 4 passes and 1 failure.
The most recent test on 20 March 2026 was a pass, although the earlier record includes 1 failure that buyers may want to investigate.
Across all tests, the most frequently flagged areas are: Brakes (6 issues), Suspension (6 issues), Tyres (5 issues), Lighting (1 issue). Repeated mentions in one area can indicate an ongoing pattern worth checking in person.
In total 25 advisory notices are recorded. Advisories flag items that passed but may need attention before the next test; they are not evidence of how well the vehicle has been serviced.
Buyer's Guide & Inspection Advisory
Expert automotive synthesis from historical MOT defect records and market benchmarks.
Our Verdict
This is an exceptionally low-mileage example of a modern classic that represents a potential collector's item, but the MOT history reveals clear signs of age-related degradation and lack of recent maintenance that require immediate attention before purchase.
The primary draw for this car is the incredibly low mileage, but buyers must not mistake low mileage for 'good condition'. You should verify the full service history to ensure the oil has been changed regularly, as 'contaminated oil' was noted in the 2023 MOT. Pay close attention to the rubber-based components; the history consistently flags perishing tyres and cracking rubber, which suggests the car has sat stationary for long periods.
Negotiate based on the list of required work identified. The MOT shows multiple advisories for corroded struts, suspension arms, and brake components. Additionally, the gearbox mounting bush and corroded power steering pipe are items that need addressing soon. Ensure the power steering system has been checked for leaks, as the pipe is a common and potentially expensive failure point on the Z3 model.
With a 2.2L petrol engine, you should expect modest fuel economy, likely averaging 28-32 MPG depending on driving. Tax is mid-range for this engine size, and insurance groups can vary significantly based on your age and location, given the roadster profile.
Maintenance costs will be higher than a standard hatchback due to the BMW premium on parts and the age of the vehicle. You should budget an annual running cost, including fuel, tax, insurance, and a fund for occasional specialist repairs, to be approximately £1,200-£1,600.
Focus heavily on the underbody and suspension points. The MOT history has repeatedly noted corrosion on the front and rear MacPherson struts and suspension arms. Inspect for any bubbling paint that might indicate structural rust, as the Z3 is known to rust in specific areas.
Check the tyres thoroughly; the data shows a history of them perishing and cracking over several years, necessitating replacement even if the tread looks deep. Also, inspect the braking system for binding, as noted in the 2026 test, and check the gearbox area for any vibration while shifting, which would confirm the defective mounting bush mentioned recently.
This 2001 BMW Z3 is a rare find, having covered only over 27,500 miles in its 25-year life. While the mileage is impressive, the MOT history shows a recurring pattern of suspension corrosion, perishing tyres, and neglected brake components. It offers a high-value proposition for a buyer who is prepared to invest in preventative maintenance to bring the car back to peak road standard.
The BMW Z3 is generally considered robust but is prone to age-related rubber failures and electrical issues if left unused for long periods.
Reviewed by the IsItAGoodCar editorial team — Verified automotive analysis synthesized from official vehicle registries.
Data Sources
DVSA
Official MOT test logs & failure reasons
DVLA
Tax, registration & powertrain specs
Experian
Finance, stolen markers & total loss
AI Analysis
Historical fault & advisory patterns
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