Used BMW Z4 2003 - 2009 review

What's the used BMW Z4 like?

Sharp handling, outstanding grip and excellent body control mean that the BMW Z4 is every inch a driver's car – one of the best of its type, in fact. The only real trade-off for this performance and precision is a stiff ride, particularly on the Sport versions.

The entry model has a spirited 2.0-litre, four-cylinder engine, or you can opt for one of the larger six-cylinder units. These make the car seriously quick and give a heady snarl as the revs rise. However, their extra oomph adds a fair bit to ownership costs, so the 2.0-litre makes the best all-rounder.

Overview

The BMW Z4 is an affordable two-seater convertible that's great to look at and thrilling to drive.

Pros

• It's classy, fun
• reliable and has a strong image

Cons

• The ride is firm, especially on Sports models

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£4,500

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£4,699

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Big demand for used Z4s keeps prices high and means that good ones sell rapidly for close to the asking price. No wonder – it's a civilised car that's well equipped and comfortable for two.

It's practical and sensible enough to be usable every day all year round, but even with the roof down, you can drive quickly with a reasonable degree of hush in the cabin.

Our recommendations

Which used BMW Z4 should I buy?

The bigger-engined versions of the BMW Z4 may look tempting, but the basic 2.0i is the easiest to live with and kindest on the wallet.

It only has four cylinders to the six you'll find in the 2.5, 3.0 and 3.2, but it is quick and flexible, hitting 60mph in just 8.2sec. However, it comes only with a manual gearbox, so if you want an auto, you'll have to move up to the 2.5 or 3.0.

Trim-wise, you can choose between standard, SE and Sport. All are well equipped, but SE is the one most first owners pick, so it's the easiest to find, and we'd go for that rather than the Sport, which has an overly stiff ride.

BMW offers a big choice of options and many first owners indulged. Parking sensors, sat-nav and stereo upgrades are desirable and add value, but watch for any kitted with big alloy wheels and ultra-low-profile tyres because they'll ride harshly.

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