Ultimate Driving Machine!
Even though it was released in 2009, the classic roadster design still remains one of the sexiest cars on the road! As other have said, it turns heads every time I take it out. Despite mine being the “base” powertrain with the sDrive30i, the naturally aspirated 6 cylinder engine sounds fantastic, and is comparatively way more trouble-free. The power output combined with the small form factor makes it feel more than fast enough, and handling is superb as well once dialed into Sport mode. Cons: ride is rough and stiff with run flats, but will be way better with normal tires No back up camera availability, and tech is a bit outdated with the CIC system. But Apple CarPlay and backup camera retrofit is widely available and mostly plug and play
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Too many repairs
Front struts, valve cover gasket, tranmisssion seal, front end grouments all needed replacement at 25,000 miles. Has issues with vibration in convertable top also. Both rear rims cracked due to poor manufacturer process. Too costly to drive.
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- sDrive30i ConvertibleMSRP: $15,995155 mi away
- sDrive30i ConvertibleMSRP: $17,884156 mi away
- sDrive30i ConvertibleMSRP: $16,995171 mi away
Near-perfect roadster
After several 3-series coupes this is my first ever roadster. Although inherently impractical, it is much fun to drive - I love the throaty growl and sharp steering turn-in.
Drive them all and you'll choose this one!
Purchased this vehicle coming from M6 through E63 AMG. Although M6 is very fast, SMG tranny is HORRIBLE in real life. AMG is an absolute MB service dream (8 weeks in service out of 6 months of ownership). So after browsing 911, SLK and boxter - I decided to go with the Z4. Hardtop convertible is awesome. Features, although very pricey (base $52k, mine $66K) are all there. Handling, although criticized, is very adequate. This car is not built to be driven on track only, it is a very comfortable sports car adaptation to real life conditions. Highway cruising feels like a 7. Thumbs up, BMW, can't wipe the smile off my face every time I drive it! Bi turbo is a mast, base model lacks power, etc.
Not a Cayman or a Boxster, but good for what it is
One thing one needs to accept about this car is that it's not meant to compete on the track against a Cayman S or Boxster S. It's just not that kind of car. It's absolutely great for what it was built for, which is to be an enjoyable high speed, top down cruiser. If you drive these other cars, you will immediately notice how much better they handle, but for everyday driving, the Z4 is quite good. The N54 engine is superb and eminently chip-able. The car is comfortable and luxurious. The only cons I've really identified is that in the 2011 model year, some cars do not come with the Combox controller, which means you won't have bluetooth audio capabilities. Also, the handling in some tight corners feels a bit delayed. I've felt the rear end skitter out on me more than a few times. Not the extent that it would be dangerous or cause any real concern, but it certainly doesn't have the "turn on a dime" feel of those mid-engined cars.
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