BMW Z4 Review

2009 BMW Z4 sDrive35i Convertible Shown

The BMW Z4 is one of the more intriguing sports cars available. It's a successor to the original Z3 and is the company's only two-seat sports car. It features traditional characteristics such as a front-engine/rear-drive layout, a hunkered-down stance, a long hood and rearward positioning of driver and passenger. Currently, BMW is in the process of revamping its Z4. A fully redesigned model will be introduced for 2010, highlighted by new styling, a more powerful engine and a retractable hardtop that will replace both roadster and convertible body styles.

As a used model, the first-generation Z4 provides a rewarding driving experience thanks to its sharp handling and stirring straight-6 engine. There were a few improvements through the car's run to be aware of, but any older Z4 is a very viable choice for a used sports car.

Most Recent BMW Z4 Model

The BMW Z4 was introduced for 2003. Originally, there were two roadster models available, identified as 2.5i or 3.0i. The 2.5i had a 2.5-liter inline six-cylinder engine that made 184 horsepower, while the 3.0i used a 3.0-liter straight-6 that generated 225 hp. For transmissions, there was a five-speed manual (standard on the 2.5), a six-speed manual (standard on the 3.0), a five-speed automatic or a six-speed sequential manual gearbox (SMG). Standard equipment included 16-inch wheels (17s for the 3.0i), a manually operated soft top (with rear glass) and leather upholstery for the 3.0i. Major options included a power top, xenon headlights and a navigation system.

An update occurred for 2006 and as such, Z4 models from this year and onwards are a better choice than earlier models, if price is no object. After '06, the Z4 was offered as a roadster or a fixed-roof coupe. For the roadster, there were two trim levels: 3.0i and 3.0si. The former featured a 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder engine rated at 215 hp, while the 3.0si had a 255-hp 3.0-liter six. The Z4 Coupe was offered in the 3.0si trim only. A six-speed manual transmission was standard on every Z4, while a six-speed automatic was optional. The largely disliked SMG transmission was dropped. Other changes included a retuned standard suspension for better ride quality, a revised final-drive ratio for improved acceleration and updated styling.

Even in its basic trim, the first-generation BMW Z4 rewarded drivers with an engaging driving experience. In Edmunds.com reviews, editors praised the car's sharp reflexes and quick acceleration. The Coupe possessed a slight advantage in terms of handling due to its added body rigidity. For shoppers desiring even more performance, there was also an M-powered version of the Z4.

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* Edmunds.com maintains vehicle data as far back as 1990.