Wiesmann MF3 Roadster
The Wiesmann MF3 was the creation of brothers Martin and Friedhelm Wiesmann, who started building cars in a converted farmhouse in Dülmen, Münsterland. Their vision was simple but compelling: combine classic British roadster aesthetics with the reliability and performance of modern BMW powertrains. The MF3 featured a hand-formed fiberglass body with flowing retro lines, a long bonnet, and a compact cockpit reminiscent of classic sports cars. Underneath the vintage-inspired skin lay thoroughly modern engineering: BMW's magnificent inline-six engine (ultimately the 3.2-liter S54 from the M3 in the final versions), a Getrag six-speed manual gearbox, and sophisticated double-wishbone suspension all around. The tubular steel space frame chassis was designed for rigidity and light weight, resulting in a car that weighed just 1,150 kg and could sprint to 100 km/h in 5.0 seconds. Each MF3 was hand-built to customer specification, with extensive customization options for paint, leather, and equipment. The Wiesmann factory — shaped like a giant gecko, the company's logo — became a destination for enthusiasts. The MF3 proved that a tiny German manufacturer could build a sports car that rivaled established marques for driving pleasure.
BMW engines are reliable and well-supported for parts. The hand-built fiberglass body requires specialist knowledge for repairs. Check for chassis corrosion on the tubular frame. Soft top mechanism should operate smoothly. Low production means spare body panels are very scarce.
Each car was hand-built at the Wiesmann factory in Dülmen. Total production across all MF variants was approximately 1,700 cars. The company entered insolvency in 2013 but was later revived.