the 1.9 from the 2.8. We regard that as a good thing, because BMW got it

right to begin with. Major controls are exactly where you'd expect them

to be, something we reaffirmed with our curbside eyes-closed review, a

test you can conduct in the showroom. Hop in, close your eyes and reach

for something--the gearshift, for example. We'll bet your hand will make

precise contact first time, every time, and that's not something we can

say about all cars.

Obviously, the Z3 is a two-seater, and, just as obviously, two-seaters

are snug by design, the kind of car you wear like a finely tailored garment.

Even so, there's plenty of legroom and enough headroom under the beautifully

crafted soft top for drivers well over six feet.

Fit and finish are superb, inside and out, 1.9 or 2.8, and the seats

provide the kind of lateral support that's required for enthusiastic cornering

as well as the kind of contours and padding that go with all-day comfort.

If there's any fault to be found it's the plastic rear window, which

will inevitably become clouded and creased over time, and a diminutive

trunk, the price of the Z3's classic sports car styling. It's only fair

to note, though, that the rear window zips out for easy replacement, and

the smallish trunk is a price we'd gladly pay for one of the best-looking

sports cars going.

Speaking of price, the 2.8 starts a hefty $6475 north of the basic 1.9.

Even with an above-average list of standard features, that might seem like

a lot for two more cylinders, but the price includes leather-clad seats

(an $1150 option in the 1.9), as well as heavier-duty rear suspension components

and enhanced braking.

The soft top for both cars is manual, and is ultra-simple and ultra-easy.

We were able to flip it open from the driver's seat with one hand, and

buttoning up is just as simple.