BMW has a slogan: they’re “The Ultimate Driving Machine” and for many, this is the truth. BMW is one of the world’s leaders of manufacturing and selling luxury vehicles and motorcycles. They’re a German multinational company with deep roots embedded in history.
The History of BMW
BMW can trace its roots back to Karl Rapp and Gustav Otto. In 1916, the Flugmaschinenfabrik (translates to aircraft factory) Gustav Otto company merged into the Bayerische Flugzeug-Werke AG (BFW). As implied by the English translation, BMW didn’t start out making cars — it made aircrafts for the German government and, later in history, for the public as well.
In 1917, all of their aircrafts proudly displayed the BMW emblem and it made its first appearance for advertising purposes in 1920.
And when the World War began, BMW was one of the companies that created aircrafts for the government. When the war ended, railway brakes and inboard engines were manufactured following the prohibition on the production of aero-engines.
It wasn’t until 1923 that BMW shifted their focus from the skies to back on the ground. The R 32 was their first motorcycle that sparked a huge wave of excitement. Until now, the company only supplied engines, instead of complete vehicles.
In six years, BMW transitioned again to become an automobile manufacturer in 1928 by purchasing the company known as Fahrzeugfabrik Eisenach. That was, until World War II broke out. This begins a long and tumultuous history for BMW, which you can read here.
BMW continued to produce luxury vehicles throughout the years after the year. In 2013, BMW introduced the BMW i3, which is the first all-electric series from BMW.
And in 2020, VIP European Auto Interiors had the joy of working on a 2000 BMW Z3.
A Look at the BMW Z3
The BMW Z3 is a range of two-seater sports cars which was produced from 1995 to 2002. The Z3, which was introduced in 1996, has seen unfaltering popularity throughout its lifetime for every demographic.
The Z3 lineup consists of three sportsters: the Z3 Roadster 2.3, Z3 Coupe 2.8 and Z3 Roadster 2.8. The Z3 Roadster 2.3 has a 2.5-liter, six-cylinder engine that makes 170 horsepower while meeting Low Emission Vehicle (LEV) standards.
The Coupe and Roadster 2.8 were outfitted with larger 2.8-liter, 193-horsepower, six-cylinder engines.
But the fun of these cars isn’t under the hood; it’s behind the wheel. There is nothing like driving a BMW Z3: their high speeds, suburb steering, and excellent braking systems allow for an unparalleled driving experience.
For those who want speed and a rigid structure and protection from the elements, the 2.8 Coupe is the way to go. But the Z3 is suited for everyone’s needs. It provides the thrill of
open-air motoring in a solid and stylish sports car.
2000 BMW Z3 Highlights
The 2000 line brought the same sense of style, the same rush of fun, and the same thrill of the drive, but offered Dynamic Stability Control. The cars also receive freshened exterior and interior styling and appointments.
VIP’s Interior Work on a 2000 BMW Z3
The 2000’s model is normally beige and sleek, fit to the driver’s needs, but often outdated by today’s standards. On this car, the owner wanted work done on the dash, glovebox, and interior repair to bring the Z3 into the modern age without losing the flair BMWs are known for.
The glove box presented an interesting challenge to our expert technicians, as almost all of the brackets were broken. It was extremely difficult to find replacements for such a coveted vehicle and, once found, cost upwards of $1,300. Instead, we decided to put our brains and creativity to the test.
We made a custom solution using epoxy and washers internally to provide new anchors. The custom work will be entirely invisible once installed and saved the car-owner money and time. Instead of $1,300, the cost of the glovebox repair was $300. That is the kind of dedicated and out-of-the-box innovation you get from our experts at VIP. Because at VIP, it’s not work: it’s out passion. Our technicians at VIP European Auto Interior take pride in their craftsmanship with every job. You can rest assured we’ll get your car looking good as new!
The other work included custom door panels, steering wheel, and more. Here are some photos of the car as it is being renovated.
