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Can't speak directly for the Z3M, but after owning an E93 335i for over a year (and test driving an E93 M3) my take on BMW is that it cannot be compared to more dedicated sports cars. BMWs are biased too much for "luxury", and that's apparent even in the sportier trims.
For me, this is represented by a more disconnected driving experience, more isolation from the road and less feel from the inputs (steering in particular (yes, despite being hydraulic), but also shifter (in the M3 I test drove)). BMW is probably the best option in its category (with the Z3/Z4 falling under "upmarket convertible/coupe GT"), but comparing to the Twins (or something like a Miata) doesn't really work for sportiness.
With that being said, it's largely a matter of preference. I enjoy my 335i exactly for it being a more comfortable and isolated cruiser, and with the roof down it's a fun drive. But whenever the roads get twisty I'm disappointed when comparing to my BRZ.
After driving a 981 Cayman GT4 and a 982 Boxster GTS4.0 extensively on twisty roads, I think Porsche strike a far better balance between "luxury" and sportiness. Perhaps a 986 Boxster or 987 Cayman might work for you?
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