Overview & Reviews
The BMW Z4 is one of the more intriguing sports cars available. It's the successor to the original Z3 and is presently the company's only two-seat sports car. Defining traits include a front-engine/rear-drive layout, a hunkered-down stance, a long hood and rearward positioning of driver and passenger. While the first Z4 featured a traditional soft top, the current Z4 model has a sleek retractable hardtop that makes this fun-loving roadster a more viable all-weather option.
The current Z4 also represents a slight change in philosophy for BMW's roadster. Not only does it sacrifice ultimate handling for greater ride comfort and overall refinement, but it also employs a highly fuel-efficient turbocharged four-cylinder as its base engine. The result is one of the most well-rounded sports cars money can buy. You'll need a lot of it, though, as the latest Z4 certainly doesn't come cheap.
Current BMW Z4
The current Z4 is offered with rear-wheel drive in three trim levels: sDrive28i, sDrive35i and sDrive35is. The 28i gets a turbocharged 2.0-liter inline-4 that produces 240 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque. A six-speed manual transmission is standard, with an eight-speed automatic available as an option. The 35i comes with a twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-6 good for 300 hp and 300 lb-ft of torque; its sole transmission is a seven-speed dual-clutch automated manual (DCT). The 35is utilizes DCT and a revised version of the regular 35i's engine, boasting 335 hp and 332 lb-ft of torque with a temporary overboost function that pumps torque up to 369 lb-ft.
Though the primary distinction between these trims involves what's under the hood, there are some other equipment differences. The sDrive28i comes standard with 17-inch wheels, adaptive xenon headlights, keyless ignition and entry, dual-zone automatic climate control, eight-way power seats, Bluetooth and adjustable driving settings that change the programming for the steering, throttle and (if specified) automatic transmission. The sDrive35i adds 18-inch wheels, sun-reflective leather upholstery and sport seats. The sDrive 35is is similar but comes standard with an upgraded audio system and the performance-themed M Sport package (optional on other Z4s). Option highlights include heated seats and steering wheel, front and rear parking sensors and a navigation system.
In reviews, we've found the latest BMW Z4 to be an impressive and highly refined sport touring car, with a surprisingly roomy interior and decent trunk space as long as the retractable roof is raised. Although the turbo-4 makes less power than the old inline-6, it's got more torque, and fuel economy is substantially improved. Besides its rather agricultural grumble at idle, this is a sweet little engine. Should you want for more, the ultra-smooth and seriously quick six-cylinder models are bound to please.
The Z4 is generally a hoot to drive, especially if you go for the optional M Sport package and leave the adjustable drive settings in Sport mode. However, its reflexes and communication with the driver are a bit lacking due to a numb electric power steering system, a fairly hefty curb weight and a predilection for understeer. Still, we think most buyers will appreciate the Z4's firm yet compliant ride and accomplished all-around performance. A spirited top-down journey in a Z4 is a wonderful way to spend a sunny day.
Used BMW Z4 Models
The current, second-generation BMW Z4 was completely redesigned for 2009, as the previous coupe and roadster models were melded into one with the introduction of a retractable hardtop. The styling was revamped to be more curvaceous and fluid than the avant-garde first generation, while the interior gained some space, style and improved materials.
If you're looking at used second-generation Z4s, there are a few notable changes to keep in mind. From 2009-'11, the base Z4 was known as the sDrive30i, and it featured a carryover 3.0-liter inline-6 that produced 255 hp and 220 lb-ft of torque. The transmission was a six-speed manual or an optional six-speed automatic. This is a superb engine on its own merits, but it's not as fuel-efficient as the subsequent turbo-4, which replaced it for 2012 when the base model became known as the sDrive28i. The eight-speed automatic was introduced at the same time, supplanting the six-speed unit. As for the sDrive35is, it debuted for 2011 along with the M Sport package for lesser models. Finally, the sDrive35i could be had with a six-speed manual of its own until 2015.
The first-generation BMW Z4 was introduced for 2003 with controversial "flame-surfaced" styling. Originally, there were two roadster models available, identified as 2.5i or 3.0i. The 2.5i had a 2.5-liter inline-6 that made 184 hp, while the 3.0i used a 3.0-liter inline-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.
A significant update occurred for 2006, including the debut of the fixed-roof Z4 Coupe and revamped trim levels with new engines -- the 3.0i (215-hp inline-6) and 3.0si (255-hp inline-6). The Z4 Coupe was offered in 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. High-performance M versions of the Z4 were also offered and are reviewed separately here.
Although we prefer the updated 2006-'08 models, every first-generation BMW Z4 rewarded drivers with an engaging driving experience. In reviews, our editors praised the car's sharp reflexes and quick acceleration, though the ride could be a bit rough -- particularly prior to '06 -- and the steering wasn't as communicative as some competitors. The Coupe possessed a slight advantage in terms of handling due to its added body rigidity.
User Reviews:
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Great Car Crummy Dealer - 2003 BMW Z4
By trtoad - March 4 - 2:00 amWaited 40 years for a roadster, and am I glad I did. This one more that fufills dreams, it makes my wife happy too with the wood trim and heated seats. Top down and blasting on the premium sound Stepenwolf - Magic Carpet ride... the song was written for this car. San Diego BMW has me puzzled... they seem to be over-staff and dont have their act together. Seems the other Beamer owners are way to impressed with themselves. Its a car!!!
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GoBMWZ4 - 2003 BMW Z4
By Maclin966 - February 10 - 2:00 amOutstanding fun car, excellent performanceon interstate roads and the backroads also. I was most suprised by the fuel economy (bonus) and the comfort on a long trip (over900 miles).A true sports car at good value.
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A big step up from the Z3 - 2003 BMW Z4
By mcrescenzi - February 7 - 2:00 amThe dealership gave me a Z3 to drive until my Z4 came in, and once it did arrive, I noticed a huge difference in both performance and ergonomics. For one, BMW adjusted the front windshield, removing the blind spots on either side that were a constant nuisance with the Z3. Another upgrade is the addition of a storage space that is positioned between the drivers and passengers seats -- perfect for storing CDs. Two suggestions: one, get the heated seats, you can crank those babies up and still put the top down when its below 60 degrees out two, get the electronically adustable seats -- I didnt and really wish I did.
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enjoy driving - 2003 BMW Z4
By paul3370 - January 31 - 10:00 amIve always owned a Mercedes, this is my first BMW. This Z4 is a real performance car. The pleasures of driving this vehicle comes from the triptronic and the fully loaded Z4 thatresponds like a cat. My experience with Mercedes was a luxury ride but this is a well engineered machine. The two downsides are the seatbelt does not rest comfortably and the interior is on the small side.
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Practical, luxurious, sporty all in one - 2003 BMW Z4
By BCM301 - January 25 - 2:00 amTypical BMW handling, performance, technology, and responsiveness. For a two-seater, this car makes you feel remarkably safe with 6 airbags, sturdy rollbars, stability control, traction control and absolutely fantastic brakes. Surprisingly practical as an everyday commuter - good mileage for a spors car, more trunk space than you think, and of course its a blast to drive.
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Pure Fun to Drive - 2003 BMW Z4
By phxzam - January 19 - 2:00 amThis is by far the most fun Ive had driving. I bought the Z4 mainly because I liked the design, but I have absolutely loved the performance. Definitely no remorse for this purchase.
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I love it! - 2003 BMW Z4
By SLCAV - January 11 - 2:00 amI am a first time BMW owner and I cannot believe how easy it was to fall in love with this car. Its fun to drive, impressive and can quickly get you out of a jam (no pun intended) when it really counts. Although the car mags werent too impressed with the Z4, I have to disagree. The simple interior makes it sharp and functional. Its a drivers car, you dont need any extra bells and whistles. I was and by far is the smartest deal I have ever made. Nick Alexander Imports is an excellent dealership!
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Most fun, great value, man-toy yet! - 2003 BMW Z4
By raman - January 6 - 2:00 amFewer features than my top of line Pathfinder, cost about the same, but much more fun to drive. If the sex appeal of the Pathfinder is that of "bloomers in a convent", this is the neatest "thong in Rio"! Have yet to drive it somewhere w/o someone commenting on how snazy, cute, sexy it is! Abs love it!! The friendly adoration of strangers offsets the open envy of some male friends!
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WOW !! - 2003 BMW Z4
By apultzjr - January 4 - 2:00 amThis is my first BMW and my first Roadster. I was always a fan of the Z3 since my brother bought one in 2001. His was stylish, powerfull, and a blast to drive. My heart was set on a Z3 and I was not very fond of the Z4. Over time, it began to grow on me. I now own a brand new 2.5L Z4 Roadster and I love it!! Very sporty, powerfull, handles great, and is a gorgeous automobile. The navigation system is a little difficult to use but once you get the handle of it, it is fun to use. The only problem I have with it is with the top up, the blind spot is a real problem. Other than that, it is a beauty. I highly recommend one.
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I love my car - 2003 BMW Z4
By Fooky - January 1 - 2:00 amThis is an upgrade from the Z-3 I had, I like the keyless entry and back glass window with defroster much better it just has a few more whistles and bells, seems to handle the road a little better, and I dont see one very other car like I did with the Z-3.