BMW Z4

Overview: Is the BMW Z4 a Good Sports Car?

The BMW Z4, a stylish and performance-oriented roadster, has been turning heads since its introduction in 2003. This overview covers the three generations of the Z4:

• BMW Z4 first generation (E85): 2003-2008
• BMW Z4 second generation (E89): 2009-2016
• BMW Z4 third generation (G29): 2019-Present

It's noteworthy that BMW did not offer the Z4 for the 2017 and 2018 model years. Throughout its evolution, the Z4 has maintained its position as a premium sports car that combines open-top enjoyment with BMW's signature driving dynamics. The BMW Z4 roadster is the successor to the Z3 and incorporates some design elements from the legendary BMW Z8.

Note: Equipment, features, and trims can vary by model year. Always confirm these details when looking for used BMW Z4 cars for sale.

Find a used BMW Z4 near me.

Related: Here Are The BMW Z4 Years To Avoid

Key Features

The BMW Z4 offers:

• Roadster (convertible) body style
• Turbocharged engines, including inline-four and inline-six options
• Rear-wheel drive (RWD) layout
• Retractable BMW Z4 hardtop (E89) or BMW Z4 convertible (soft top) (E85 and G29)
• Advanced technology features (varying by model year)

Trims

BMW Z4 trim levels have varied across generations but typically include the sDrive30i and M40i in the current generation. Previous generations offered variants like the sDrive35i and sDrive35is. Each trim offers a unique combination of performance and luxury features.

Comfort, Technology & Cargo

Step into the Z4's cockpit, and you're greeted by a driver-focused interior that merges sportiness and luxury. The seats are sculpted to hold occupants firmly in place during spirited driving while providing comfort for longer journeys. The latest generation features BMW's iDrive infotainment system with a large touchscreen display, offering intuitive controls and smartphone integration. Cargo space is limited, as expected in a roadster, but the Z4 provides enough room for weekend getaways, with additional storage behind the seats.

Related: Which Years Of Used BMW Z4s Are Most Reliable?

How It Drives

The BMW Z4 delivers an exhilarating driving experience that lives up to its sports car heritage. The current generation offers a choice between a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine in the sDrive30i and a more powerful 3.0-liter inline-six in the M40i. Both engines provide strong acceleration, with the M40i capable of sprinting from 0 to 60 mph in 3.9 seconds. The Z4's precise steering, balanced chassis, and rear-wheel drive layout contribute to its agile handling and responsive feel.

Safety

Due to low production volume, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has not assessed the second- and third-generation BMW Z4. The first generation received mixed results, with frontal and side-impact crash test scores of three to five (out of five) stars.

Reviews

While BMW Z4 reviews on Kelley Blue Book vary slightly by generation (ranging from 4.6 to 5.0 out of 5), this roadster receives wide praise. In particular, the Z4 gets highly favorable feedback for its reliability, quality, performance, and styling.

Learn More: BMW vs. Porsche: A Complete Luxury Brand Comparison

BMW Z4 FAQs

Why was the BMW Z4 discontinued?

The BMW Z4 was not permanently discontinued, but there was a gap in production between the second and third generations (2017-2018). BMW took this time to redesign the Z4, collaborating with Toyota to develop a shared platform for the Z4 and the Toyota Supra.

What is the BMW Z4 price?

A new BMW Z4 starts at around $54,000 before fees and delivery charges. According to CoPilot marketplace listings, a used Z4 sells for $10,000 to $70,000, depending on age, condition, and equipment.

How much horsepower in a Z4 BMW?

The horsepower in a BMW Z4 roadster varies depending on the model and generation. In the current generation, the sDrive30i produces 255 horsepower, while the M40i boasts 382 horsepower.

Is the BMW Z4 good for racing?

While the BMW Z4 is primarily designed as a road-going sports car, it has been adapted for racing in various motorsport categories. The Z4 GT3 and Z4 GT4 versions have competed successfully in endurance racing and GT championships. For amateur track day enthusiasts, the stock Z4, especially in M40i form, can provide an exciting and capable platform.

What is the 0 to 60 of a BMW Z4?

The 0 to 60 mph time of a BMW Z4 varies depending on the model and engine. In the current generation, the sDrive30i can reach 60 mph in about 5.2 seconds, while the more powerful M40i can make the dash in 3.9 seconds.

Check out a used BMW Z4 for sale.