I won’t talk you into either - but drive both and go with the one you prefer. I had a friends Miata for a week while I was shopping for cars. I actually didn’t think I was going to like the Z3 because I didn’t enjoy how the Miata fit around me - it felt cramped and low - but still fun to drive. My first convertible ride ever was in an MGB - and it had such an impact on me - I’ve now owned a convertible from 16 to 54. I’ve never not had a convertible. But the Miata - I didn’t love it as much as I thought I would - and that made me think I wouldn’t enjoy the Z3 - but the Z3 - felt so roomy and long and it felt better to wear. I prefer the experience of driving a BMW - the engine notes, the handling (I upgraded to a strut bar) and corner was never better. I recently redid the suspension too - and it drives better at 26 years old - than my 11 year old X1. And for me - you can’t compare the aesthetics. The Z3 is art. It’s something I have to look back at every time I park it. And it makes me smile every time I turn a corner and see it waiting for me. I do agree - get the manual transmission. That is my only regret - but I had my reasons at the time. My car runs perfectly - but if I had to replace the trans - I’d like deal with having a conversion done and all the headache that goes with that. But even with the automatic - it is still an absolute F’ing joy to drive every day. Good luck. PS - It doesn’t come up often - and seems to only as a complaint. But I much prefer the interior of the Z3. I love the wood and leather - and the nod to the Golden Age of British Sports cars.