...and then he came back!!

Southernboy · Post by **Southernboy** » Tue 07 Jan, 2014 11:50

..... collection on Thursday morning in Cape Town...

Montreal Blue...3.0. Individual #3/33....

Southernboy · Post by **Southernboy** » Tue 07 Jan, 2014 11:52

....... first off, the seatbelt guides need my mod to sort out that flappy / broken arm....

Z3cade · Post by **Z3cade** » Tue 07 Jan, 2014 12:28

You be careful with all that extra power

I bet you keep it auto.. There a nice drive in automatic.

Davejue1 · Post by **Davejue1** » Tue 07 Jan, 2014 13:35

Good result Barry! Look forward to seeing what you do with scarab 2!

PCSAM · Post by **PCSAM** » Tue 07 Jan, 2014 13:44

you didn't leave Barry

I bet those alloys don't last long

and the individual thing

not very BMW ish

but you now have the best engine

welcome back from not going away

oh and you now have seats you wont slide out of in the corners

Southernboy · Post by **Southernboy** » Tue 07 Jan, 2014 15:18

It will be interesting to have to choose some alternate wheels...I think Scarab II will be lot's of fun...especially with the extra few ponies...

Daz3 · Post by **Daz3** » Tue 07 Jan, 2014 16:05

Nice choice in colour one of the best I think and glad you stayed with the Z3 crew

g8jka · Post by **g8jka** » Tue 07 Jan, 2014 16:25

Looks good with the ///M seats and a nice colour.

Being a 2000 model and a 3.0 shouldn't it be a facelift version? I never knew you could get a 3.0 pre-facelift or a year 2000 pre-facelift but maybe this is just in Europe?

Southernboy · Post by **Southernboy** » Tue 07 Jan, 2014 17:06

...I'm about to discover all myself...just got the VIN #

resunoiz · Post by **resunoiz** » Tue 07 Jan, 2014 17:50

is that your new "lover"?

I wasn't there from a little time, and here that news!

Southernboy · Post by **Southernboy** » Tue 07 Jan, 2014 19:13

....... seller sent me the VIN#...extremely dissapointing...it's a 2.8 Individual....manufacture date 12/1998.... and a standard 5 speed atomatic......so I don't think I'll be going this route...

Bonzo · Post by **Bonzo** » Tue 07 Jan, 2014 19:21

Good choice Barry, Montreal Blue is a super, understated deep colour, especially in all of that sunshine you have to put up with!

Cheers,

Bonzo.

gookah · Post by **gookah** » Tue 07 Jan, 2014 19:21

so the 3.0litre, year 2000 description was only wrong on two counts.
3.0 were only facelift, and all had electric hoods.

"and now he's gone again"

Bonzo · Post by **Bonzo** » Tue 07 Jan, 2014 19:23

Southernboy wrote:....... seller sent me the VIN#...extremely dissapointing...it's a 2.8 Individual....manufacture date 12/1998.... and a standard 5 speed atomatic......so I don't think I'll be going this route...

Oh dear, but it must be the only nuclear powered Z3

Brian4 · Post by **Brian4** » Tue 07 Jan, 2014 20:09

That's a shame that sellers can't describe things properly. At least you found out before yo went all the way there, keep hunting and one will come along. It looks as if you are sold on the idea of another Z

Davejue1 · Post by **Davejue1** » Tue 07 Jan, 2014 20:39

Oh no! What was he trying to achieve? Do reg plates over there not state the year on them then?

Southernboy · Post by **Southernboy** » Tue 07 Jan, 2014 21:41

Unfortunately not...the only way to determine the manufacture date is to check on the VIN# or on the original registration documents.

Z3cade · Post by **Z3cade** » Wed 08 Jan, 2014 00:07

Z4M it is then

g8jka · Post by **g8jka** » Wed 08 Jan, 2014 00:11

I thought something didn't quite look right

Good job you found out before going all that distance only to find out its not what was described

Z3cade · Post by **Z3cade** » Wed 08 Jan, 2014 00:17

To be fair there's nothing wrong with a 2.8 so still could be a good buy?

Southernboy · Post by **Southernboy** » Wed 08 Jan, 2014 04:39

I have asked for him to send a pic of the instrument cluster with the lights on...I'd like to see what other "tells" there may be...but I doubt I'll take it on now.

Davejue1 · Post by **Davejue1** » Wed 08 Jan, 2014 08:58

Whats the next step then Barry? Is it still going to be a 3?

Southernboy · Post by **Southernboy** » Wed 08 Jan, 2014 09:31

Yep...I have found another seller...and at least this guy is open with all the details....I've checked the Vin # and he has sent pics of the error code printout as well as the instrument cluster checks on a video...all seems to be in order. It's a Cosmo black 3.0 with 130,000kms manual shift, which is quite acceptable.
I'll do a physical check tomorrow and all being good, I think I'll take it.
Must say, I had a brief rush of sh1t to the head and looked at an Audi TT 3.2 DSG with 111000kms on the clock...but was advised that the potential for a gearbox issue would incur some serious expense..so that went out the door abruptly...

Davejue1 · Post by **Davejue1** » Wed 08 Jan, 2014 09:37

Wise choice. My father in law had a TT and generally it was a nice car but he had lots of issues with it and him not being mechanically minded cost him a small fortune in repair bills. Cosmos black, that'll be a change eh!!! Good colour tho so why change it.

Southernboy · Post by **Southernboy** » Wed 08 Jan, 2014 09:54

Black !!! Seems black was a favourite colour for Z3's here in SA...wonder why...?
Fortunately it is is already fitted with the roll bars and an OEM wind deflector...although it has the HK woofer in the storage box, which may have to change...I really like the extra storage back there...but that will come in time...I'll post some pics later in the week if all goes well.

Mint · Post by **Mint** » Wed 08 Jan, 2014 11:36

Don't know why black was a common sorry popular colour in SA. You'd have thought a light colour would have been chosen.

Glad you're staying in the Zed fold Barry, your knowledge and experience would be sorely missed

. Best of luck tomorrow...

Southernboy · Post by **Southernboy** » Wed 08 Jan, 2014 11:40

Cheers guys...nice to be appreciated for more than my great looks and huge wallet....

Mint · Post by **Mint** » Wed 08 Jan, 2014 11:41

Southernboy wrote:Cheers guys...nice to be appreciated for more than my great looks and huge wallet....

Sorry, who's talking about looks?

Southernboy · Post by **Southernboy** » Wed 08 Jan, 2014 11:44

........

Althulas · Post by **Althulas** » Wed 08 Jan, 2014 15:59

Barry is it the one with the beige interior in EAST RAND? You don't get many z3 on your auto trader site. I was still puzzled on why you sold your previous well sorted one but I suppose you get bored once you have nothing left to tinker with. Look forward to your next project.

Southernboy · Post by **Southernboy** » Wed 08 Jan, 2014 16:56

.... Not the 3.0 on the east rand...I did have a look at that and went to drive it, but when I got there the interior was so tatty, both seats had "home made" speaker boxes behind them, there was a 50kg amp stuck in the boot and a CD shuttle which probably takes 20 discs...When I started the motor it fired first time, but I thought I heard a tatap of a big end or crank bearing...not impressed...I got the impression it had been previously owned by someone that cared more about drowning the sound of the straight six and deafening himself. It also smelt like more than driving took place within the car...not a very encouraging scenario. The one I am looking at tomorrow is also In Cape Town, and the pics I've been sent looks as though the car is in fairly well kept condition, with the possible exception of the rear plastic window, but that may have just been the photograph creating an illusion. It also checks out in terms of tyre condition, black leather interior, the dash has been removed by the previous owner to apply fresh leather trim to the airbag and instrument areas, which invariably shrink in the SA sun and pulls out from the edges. So all in all, it appears it was better cared for. I hope it lives up to expectation when I see it.

Davejue1 · Post by **Davejue1** » Wed 08 Jan, 2014 17:56

Fingers crossed Barry.

Southernboy · Post by **Southernboy** » Wed 08 Jan, 2014 18:24

Thanks Dave...

Southernboy · Post by **Southernboy** » Thu 09 Jan, 2014 21:38

Up at 4am this morning to grab a quick shower and a cuppa tea before popping off to the airport for a 6am take off and a 2 hour flight to CapeTown...Arrived there to find the rain blattering and a stiff southwester blowing...the seller's driver was already there and waiting for me...in the 3.0 Z3...So short 15 minute drive to his offices, did all the paperwork and all went well. The car is in excellent condition with a full BMW service history and 2 previous owners. Interior is fully black leather and trim with black floor carpets. General condition of the interior is very good considering age (2001). All 4 tyres are matching Mitchellin with 95% rubber...The fitted headunit is a very good Sony, but I must say...it'll have to go...I don't like the blue illumination all over...very Japanese perhaps, but not for me. The bodywork is excellent, accident free but with the customary stone chips on the bonnet and spoiler. The motor is as sweet as one would want, and in spite of still having the cat fitted, the exhaust is positively OEM. A new rear window has been fitted (sewn in) to the OEM soft top, which will need replacing as it is looking a bit "worn" in a couple of spots. The wheels are OEM BMW 17" narrow / wides....
Anyhow, I had a good seafood breakfast, some coffee and set off back up to Jhb around 10.30am...1450kms...Arrived home at 9.30pm...so not a bad run considering I made 3 fuel stops and got a bit lost leaving Cape Town...an average speed of 138kph allowing 30 minutes for the fuel stops. I did spend an hour behind a chap on a BMW 1200 GS... motorbike...and that got shot of some K's in a hurry...we covered 190kms in the hour...fortunately it was in the Karoo...there's very little to see there being very arid and mostly stony ground and miles of...well stony ground and a good road to fly on...
Happy to be home....

Here are a couple of pics of the car as I was heading out of Cape Town...

PCSAM · Post by **PCSAM** » Thu 09 Jan, 2014 22:15

glad you got the car mate .. look at those perfect roads you have ....... nice clean pot-hole free tarmac

and the rest looks good also

so how is the 3.0i then compared to your 2.8

leather dash ? that's not standard is it

Del · Post by **Del** » Thu 09 Jan, 2014 23:00

Hope you enjoy the new car. I've heard both BMW enthusiasts and BMW technicians all say that the 3.0 litre M54 engine was one of the best and most reliable BMW engines built.

Davejue1 · Post by **Davejue1** » Fri 10 Jan, 2014 04:20

Those roads look just like where I live, especially the one running through the two rocks, most reminiscent of my cul-de-sac!!!
Good news on the car Barry, I hope it all works out well for you and am looking forward to seeing the signature pic changed!

Southernboy · Post by **Southernboy** » Fri 10 Jan, 2014 07:07

.... SIGNATURE EDITED....AND IT SAYS IT ALL..."WATAKA"......

Davejue1 · Post by **Davejue1** » Fri 10 Jan, 2014 07:58

Interesting choice Barry, Egyptian for 'a hot chick'!! Is that how you feel about your new scarab lol??? Have you got the turtle wax out yet!

Mint · Post by **Mint** » Fri 10 Jan, 2014 08:51

Pleased for you Barry, it looks a great example. Looking forward to seeing what you do with her.

Looks like you had a good drive home to see how she drives on some fantastic roads

Althulas · Post by **Althulas** » Fri 10 Jan, 2014 12:37

Glad you had a uneventful road trip home, those nice scenery shots reminds of Wales. Are all your main roads built that well? Are you going to post some more pics of your new acquisition?

Southernboy · Post by **Southernboy** » Fri 10 Jan, 2014 14:14

Thanks for the comments and questions....To reply:- I've dropped the car off with my BMW mechanic and asked him to take a week and check everything possible mechanical, electronic and electrical. Also to do a full oil change, coolant change, filters etc etc. So I shan't have the car back before next friday.
I did all the registration / licening etc today, so it's now legally in my name. New Number plate CW 72 ZC.
Yes, the majority of the main "national" roads are in that sort of good condition...it's the minor arterials which are potholed and generally shoddy.
No, I've not had a chance to even get the thousands of dead bugs off the windsheild / bonnet / grill yet...I'll do that next weekend after the "extended service / inspection". Being a "coastal" car, Ill take it to the wishy-washy and put it up on the hoist there and have the underside thoroughly jet / steam / degreased etc etc and while it's up there, I can have a look at the underside for any obvious items which may need attention.

"WATAKA" = WHAT A CAR........

but you may be right about Egyptian..

What am I planning for this car....mmmmmmm...we'll see. The cockpit is 100% black, which is a tad depressing...the console is standar OEM "aluminium" look....quite dull but it does match the steering wheel which is the OEM one with the "ally" trim at bottom... It also has the clock with the single / double line position indicators...which I'm not particular to... prefer the M clocks.

It was a fab trip home...gave me a chance to "feel" the car and adjust to it's requirements...the clutch has a different take point to the 2.8, the gearing is very different to the 2.8, it has considerable more power especially likes running away after 160kph... The lights are excellent compared to the older 2.8 and were well appreciated driving after dark on the final 400kms home.
The steering feels lighter and the brakes are exquisite with the larger front discs than the 2.8. Suspension feels harder, but that may be a tyre pressure thing...I haven't checked them. I think the car will benefit from 18" wheels and maybe even 19" wheels...and possibly something a tad wider.
It has a very different stance to the older 2.8 and I get the impression the 3.0 has a butt which sticks up higher than the 2.8...this gives the impression of the bonnet tilting downwards more than on my 2.8...may be illusion on account of the "haunches" on the newer car.
Anyhow...early days and some contemplation required...right now it's more an adjustment to the changes described and perhaps some weekend cruising to have the chance to enjoy the car without having a particular destination to arrive at.
I'll post some pics once it has been cleaned up and given a good buff etc..

Brian4 · Post by **Brian4** » Fri 17 Jan, 2014 19:43

Have you got it back from your friendly spanner guy and what's the verdict? Now you have had a week waiting have you thought of any more plans. You might have some more time to think next week as the forecast looks hot and stormy like we had cold and stormy since Xmas.

Southernboy · Post by **Southernboy** » Fri 17 Jan, 2014 19:58

I'll be collecting the car in the morning. The report I got was good with everything in order with the exception of an intake cam position sensor error code. The code was cleared, and hasn't reappeared...but I'll keep it in mind if any difficulties arise.
Other than that, I've had some new floor mats made up and I'll pop those in. Not much beyond that at the moment but looking at retro fitting a cruise control set-up. Also, I must admit to having been looking at the price of some top quality leathers from the UK...but that's not a serious consideration ...yet.
I did send you a PM, Brian....perhaps if you get a chance you can have a look and let me have some advice....

Davejue1 · Post by **Davejue1** » Sat 18 Jan, 2014 08:39

All systems go then Barry. Good news on scarab 2. No hidden nasties to concern yourself over. Look forward to see what you do next.

Cheers
Dave

Southernboy · Post by **Southernboy** » Sat 18 Jan, 2014 09:18

.... Found some bargains on a USA BMW forum...on their way here already...

Brian H · Post by **Brian H** » Sat 18 Jan, 2014 10:29

Southernboy wrote:I did send you a PM, Brian....perhaps if you get a chance you can have a look and let me have some advice....

PM sent