BMW Z3 (2011)
Running costs, common problems, and reliability data based on 31 real MOT tests in 2024.
MOT Pass Rate
90%
Total Tests (2024)
31
Avg Mileage
39,105 mi
Est. Annual Cost
£2,097
Is the 2011 BMW Z3 reliable?
Excellent reliability. Very few MOT failures. That's 8 points above the national average of 82%.
At 13 years old, 90% of BMW Z3s from 2011 passed their MOT first time in 2024. That's based on 31 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 39,105 miles.
How does the 2011 BMW Z3 compare?
Mileage Analysis
The average 2011 BMW Z3 has 39,105 miles on the clock, which is significantly below the expected 96,200 miles for a 13-year-old car. Low-mileage examples may have spent time sitting unused, so check for issues like corroded brakes or perished rubber seals.
Best year to buy a BMW Z3?
The most reliable year is the 2002 model with a 83% MOT pass rate, while the 1997 model has the lowest at 75%. The 2011 sits between the two at 90%.
How much does a 2011 BMW Z3 cost to run?
Based on 7,400 miles/year (UK average), current fuel prices, and repair likelihood from MOT pass rate data. Insurance not included.
BMW Z3 by Year
Checking a specific BMW Z3?
Enter the reg plate to see its individual MOT history, mileage verification, and predicted costs.
About the 2011 BMW Z3
The 2011 BMW Z3 is a premium performance with a 2979cc petrol engine. 31 of these vehicles were MOT tested in 2024, making it a rare model on UK roads. It ranks in the top 19% of all 2011 cars for reliability.
With an average of 39,105 miles at 13 years old, BMW Z3 owners tend to use this car less than the typical driver. Very low mileage could mean the car has been garaged or used only for short trips, which can cause its own issues like battery drain and moisture buildup.
2011 BMW Z3 Fuel Costs
The 2979cc petrol engine is on the larger side, so fuel won't be this car's strong point. Expect around 30 mpg in mixed driving, which works out to roughly £1,592 per year at current petrol prices of 142p per litre (based on 7,400 miles per year).
What does it cost to own a 2011 BMW Z3?
Total estimated annual running cost is £2,097 (£175/month), broken down as £1592 fuel, £250 road tax, £55 MOT, and £200 predicted repairs. The low repair estimate reflects the excellent 90% pass rate. These cars rarely fail their MOT, so unexpected bills are less likely.
BMW Z3 Reliability Trend
Newer BMW Z3s show better MOT pass rates than older ones, with an average improvement of 4 percentage points.
Buying a Used 2011 BMW Z3
At 13 years old, the BMW Z3 is firmly in budget territory. Purchase prices are low, but check for rust, worn suspension bushes, and electrical gremlins. A full service history is especially valuable at this age. If you're flexible on year, the 2002 model has the highest pass rate at 83%. Note: with only 31 tests in our data, these figures should be treated as indicative rather than definitive.
Alternatives to the 2011 BMW Z3
The BMW Z3 is actually the most reliable option among similar petrol premium performances from this era. Here are comparable petrol cars with similar engines:
- VAUXHALL INSIGNIA (2011) 77% pass rate (-13%) from 42,781 tests
- BMW 1 SERIES (2013) 84% pass rate (-6%) from 34,105 tests
- AUDI TT (2011) 85% pass rate (-5%) from 14,831 tests
- BMW X1 (2011) 81% pass rate (-9%) from 12,207 tests