1997 BMW Z3 1.9L Petrol · R473 BAX
1997 BMW Z3 (1.9L, petrol). First registered 01/09/1997. Recorded mileage 82,850 miles. MOT valid until 30/05/2027. Currently declared SORN.
- Make & Model
- BMW Z3
- Year / Origin
- 1997 · Reading
- Safety Recall
- Unknown
- MOT Status
- Valid until 30/05/2027
- Road Tax
- SORN
- Recorded Mileage
- 82,850 mi
- ULEZ Compliance
- Check Required (Pre-Euro 4 Petrol)
- Fuel & Engine
- Petrol · 1.9L
- Reliability Guide
- Common Faults
- Fuel Type
- Petrol
- Year
- 1997
- Engine
- 1895cc
R473 BAX Key Findings
- 5 MOT tests recorded
- Latest MOT passed on 29/05/2026
- 82,850 miles recorded at latest MOT
- 1 historical MOT failure
- 5 defects noted at the latest MOT
- Recurring brakes items (14 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
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R473 BAX Mileage History
- 25/05/202382,520 mi
- 29/05/202482,646 mi+126 mi
- 16/05/202582,776 mi+130 mi
- 29/05/202682,850 mi+74 mi
- 29/05/202682,850 mi
Average of roughly 110 miles per year across 5 recorded odometer readings.
R473 BAX 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 1997 BMW Z3 (R473 BAX) between May 2023 and May 2026.
The record contains 4 passes and 1 failure.
The most recent test on 29 May 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 (14 issues), Tyres (5 issues), Suspension (4 issues), Exhaust & Emissions (2 issues), Windscreen (2 issues). Repeated mentions in one area can indicate an ongoing pattern worth checking in person.
In total 36 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
A classic roadster with low mileage for its age, but it shows signs of persistent structural corrosion and maintenance neglect. It is a decent buy for an enthusiast willing to address the rust and oil leak issues before they become critical.
When inspecting this Z3, your priority must be the rear subframe and suspension. The MOT history has consistently noted corrosion in these mounting areas for several years; while currently described as 'not excessive', this is a known weakness on this model that can lead to structural failure if left untreated. Check the condition of the rear brake pipes thoroughly, as they have been flagged as corroded since 2023.
Under the bonnet, investigate the persistent oil leak mentioned in multiple MOT tests (often originating from the front of the engine). Determine if this is a simple valve cover gasket or a more significant rear seal issue. Additionally, check the tyre alignment; the history shows multiple instances of inner-edge wear on the front tyres, which suggests worn suspension bushings or incorrect geometry that needs professional attention to avoid ruining new tyres prematurely.
As a 1.9L petrol engine, the Z3 is relatively economical by modern, likely achieving 28-32 mpg depending on driving style. Tax bands are generally mid-range for this era, and insurance groups can vary significantly based on your profile, though being classic roadster often attracts higher premiums.
Maintenance costs can be higher than a standard hatchback due to BMW's parts pricing. You should budget for regular oil changes and potential repairs. An estimated annual running cost is approximately £1,100-£1,400, covering fuel, tax, insurance, and routine servicing.
Focus heavily on the underside. Look for bubbling paint on the rear subframe mounting points where the MOT has specifically flagged corrosion. Inspect the rear brake lines for any signs of flaking or pitting, as the records indicate they are covered in grease, which can sometimes hide further decay.
Check the windscreen washer system, as the car failed its most recent test due to faulty pumps or blocked pipes. Also, look for oil residue around the engine block to locate the source of the persistent leak. Finally, inspect the front tyres for uneven wear, as the history indicates a trend of inner-edge thinning, signifying potential alignment issues.
This 1997 BMW Z3 sits at 82,850 miles, which is remarkably low for a nearly 30-year-old car. While it passed its most recent MOT, the history reveals a recurring pattern of corrosion on the rear subframe mounts and corroded brake pipes. The vehicle also suffers from a persistent oil leak and thinning brake components, suggesting that while it is driven sparingly, it may not have been maintained with meticulous care.
The 1.9L inline-four is generally robust, but the Z3 chassis is prone to rust, particularly in the rear suspension areas.
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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