2011 BMW Z4 Review
Price Range: $15,990 - $18,990





+100
Edmunds' Expert Review
by the Edmunds Experts
Pros
- Smooth and powerful engines, quick-folding hardtop, comfortable ride, big trunk (with the top up), excellent visibility for a roadster, sharp styling inside and out.
Cons
- Not as invigorating and involving as some rivals.
What’s new
For 2011, the BMW Z4 gets a range-topping, higher-performance model known as the sDrive35is. Many of that trim's enhanced handling features are available on the lower trims in a new M Sport package.
Edmunds says
Sleek styling, a high-class interior and plenty of performance combine to make the 2011 BMW Z4 one of the most desirable luxury roadsters available.
For sale near Harker Heights, TX
50 listings
- $14,755great price
- 80,969 miles
- 1 accident, 2 owners, personal use only
- 6cyl manual
- Freeman Honda (117 mi away)
- Leather Seats
- Upgraded Headlights
- Tire Pressure Warnin...
- Multi-Zone Climate C...
- Auto Climate Control
Close
Located in Dallas, TX
Welcome to Freeman Honda in Dallas, TX. All of our cars are hand picked and inspected for your piece of mind. This Z4 is equipped with the following o...
AutoCheck Vehicle History Summary
Accident Free Vehicle: No
Personal Use Only: Yes
History Provider: AutoCheck
Title Details: Clean Title
Salvage Vehicle: No
Frame Damage: No
Theft History: No
Lemon Status: No
Free History Report: No
Features and Specs:
21 Combined MPG (19 City/26 Highway)
Listing Information:
VIN: WBALM7C53BE383288
Stock: BE383288
Certified Pre-Owned: No
Listed since: 06-12-2025 - $15,969good price
- 75,153 miles
- No accidents, 4 owners, personal use
- 6cyl automatic
- Hi-Line Motors (142 mi away)
- Bluetooth
- Leather Seats
- Upgraded Headlights
- Power Driver Seat
- Tire Pressure Warnin...
Close
Located in Plano, TX
The 2011 BMW Z4 2dr Roadster sDrive30i, adorned in the sleek and sophisticated Black Sapphire Metallic, embodies a perfect blend of sporty elegance an...
AutoCheck Vehicle History Summary
Accident Free Vehicle: Yes
Personal Use Only: Yes
History Provider: AutoCheck
Title Details: Clean Title
Salvage Vehicle: No
Frame Damage: No
Theft History: No
Lemon Status: No
Free History Report: No
Features and Specs:
22 Combined MPG (18 City/28 Highway)
Listing Information:
VIN: WBALM5C57BE379197
Stock: 379197
Certified Pre-Owned: No
Listed since: 11-12-2024
Vehicle overview
Sometimes you just have to wave a white flag, concede your ground and head in the opposite direction. Perhaps you could've kept on fighting, but why bother when the enemy is fierce and there are equally fertile pastures to occupy? It seems as if BMW faced such a scenario when it redesigned its Z4 roadster two years ago. Instead of futilely taking on the dynamic midengine perfection of Porsche's Boxster, BMW went in the opposite direction toward comfort, luxury and refinement.
Indeed, the latest Z4 puts a greater emphasis on these aspects more than its predecessor and many other entries in the class. It all starts with its retractable hardtop, which, like the Mercedes SLK, makes the Z4 a more versatile, all-weather choice. Inside, the 2011 BMW Z4 offers more room than its competitors, impressive rearward visibility and a luxurious, nicely styled ambience. On the road, the Z4's superb ride quality sops up bumps like a much larger, more expensive convertible along the lines of Mercedes' SL. In fact, the Z4 often feels like it belongs to that bigger, more refined class of luxury roadsters.
Of course, even if the Z4 has carved a new grand touring niche for itself, BMW is still known for building the "ultimate driving machine." For 2011, the Z4 is now available in a spicier variant, the new sDrive35is. Trust us; it's a lot cooler than its clunky name sounds, boasting 35 additional horsepower from the 35i's twin-turbo inline-6, enhanced steering and an M Sport package that adds adaptive suspension dampers, 18-inch wheels, an aerodynamic exterior kit and sport seats. That package is also available on the other Z4 models.
If you're looking to buy a luxury roadster, it all comes down to a simple question: What kind do you want? If you want a nimble convertible with an uncompromised connection between man and machine, then your answer is the 2011 Porsche Boxster. If, however, you desire a convertible that puts an emphasis on comfort, luxury and style while still keeping the drive interesting, then the answer is a little tougher. The 2011 Audi TT and 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLK fall on this side of the roadster coin as well. But in general, the 2011 BMW Z4 is a more complete package. It may have ceded its previous ground to the Boxster, but in the process, it's arguably become king of its own hill.
Performance & mpg
The 2011 BMW Z4 sDrive30i is powered by a 3.0-liter inline-6 that produces 255 horsepower and 220 pound-feet of torque. A six-speed manual transmission is standard and a traditional six-speed automatic is optional. BMW estimates the 30i will go from zero to 60 mph in 5.6 seconds with the manual. EPA-estimated fuel economy with both transmissions is 18 mpg city/28 mpg highway and 22 mpg combined.
The Z4 sDrive35i gets a twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-6 that produces 300 hp and 300 lb-ft of torque. A six-speed manual transmission is standard and a dual-clutch seven-speed automated manual is optional. EPA-estimated fuel economy with the manual is 18/25/20 and 17/24/20 with the automated manual. In Edmunds testing, the 35i manual went from zero to 60 in 5.2 seconds.
The Z4 sDrive35is gets a revised version of the 35i's twin-turbo engine good for 335 hp and 332 lb-ft of torque. A temporary overboost function pumps torque up to 369 lb-ft. The dual-clutch automated manual is standard. BMW estimates a 0-60 time of 4.7 seconds. Estimated fuel economy is 17/24/19.
Safety
Side impact airbags, antilock brakes with brake assist and stability control are all standard on the 2011 BMW Z4. The antilock brakes also integrate several features designed to improve braking performance, such as periodically wiping the brake rotors dry when the windshield wipers are in use and automatically snugging the pads to the rotors if the driver abruptly lifts off the throttle. BMW Assist emergency telematics is optional.
The roof is made of aluminum and incorporates a structural support system that helps protect occupants in case of a rollover accident. To provide protection in the event of a top-down rollover, there is a steel hoop behind each seat.
Driving
Even the base 2011 BMW Z4 sDrive30i is an entertaining drive thanks to its willing and exceptionally smooth 255-hp inline-6. The twin-turbocharged sDrive35i and sDrive35is are better yet, offering up authoritative yet refined acceleration. The Z4 is also characterized by its adjustable driving settings that alter steering effort, throttle response and, when optioned with the automatic transmission, shift response. Normal mode makes life a little easier around town, but the Sport and Sport+ settings are more appropriate for a roadster like the Z4.
The new M Sport package that's standard on the 35is and optional on the others should be a must-buy for serious drivers. Having said that, though, no package or adjustable settings will make the Z4 as engaging to drive as a Porsche Boxster -- the steering in particular is a bit of a letdown, providing less road feel than we'd like from a sporting car. However, we think there's a place for such a grand touring roadster and the Z4 certainly does it well.
Interior
The 2011 BMW Z4's cabin is sleek and upscale. High-quality materials abound and combine with diverse shapes to create an undeniably premium environment. Thankfully, BMW didn't forget about practicality along the way. There's a wealth of legroom in a segment not known for it, and plenty of storage space.
With a simple touch of a button (done while depressing the brake pedal), the Z4's two-piece retractable hardtop folds into the trunk in 20 seconds. With the top raised, visibility is unmatched for a roadster thanks to the Z4's large rear quarter windows that eliminate the typical convertible blind spots. The large area needed to swallow the folded roof also creates an expansive trunk (with the roof raised) capable of holding two sets of golf clubs and a carry-on suitcase. Even when the top's lowered, though, there's a deep, reasonably useful space for a pair of carry-on suitcases as well as a moderately sized pass-through that effectively expands trunk space to accommodate long items like skis or golf clubs.
2011 BMW Z4 models
The 2011 BMW Z4 is a two-seat retractable-hardtop luxury roadster available in three trim levels that correspond with engine choice: sDrive30i, sDrive35i and sDrive35is.
Standard equipment on the sDrive30i includes 17-inch wheels, adjustable sport driving settings (steering, throttle and automatic transmission if applicable), automatic adaptive xenon headlights, automatic wipers, a fully powered retractable hardtop, cruise control, leatherette premium vinyl upholstery, six-way manually adjustable seats and a sound system that includes a single-CD player, auxiliary audio jack and HD radio. The sDrive35i gets you a more powerful engine, sun-reflective leather upholstery, automatic climate control and brushed aluminum interior trim.
The sDrive35is gets an even more powerful engine, a standard dual-clutch automated manual transmission, sportier steering and the M Sport package that is optional on the other Z4 trims. This package includes 18-inch wheels, adaptive suspension dampers, an aerodynamic body kit, increased top speed, a thicker M steering wheel and 10-way manually adjustable sport seats with power bolster adjustment.
A regular Sport package available on the 30i and 35i includes only the suspension, seats, increased top speed and 18-inch wheels (the 30i sticks with the 17s). The Cold Weather package adds to all models heated seats, a heated steering wheel, retractable headlight washers and a trunk pass-through. The Premium package adds auto-dimming mirrors, power-adjustable seats, BMW Assist telematics, Bluetooth and on the 30i, leather upholstery and automatic climate control. The Premium Sound package adds a 14-speaker sound system with two subwoofers, satellite radio and an iPod/USB adapter. Many of the above package items are available as stand-alone options, along with Comfort Access keyless entry (push-button start is standard), automatic transmission shift paddles, front and rear parking sensors, automatic high beams, a navigation system (includes the iDrive electronics interface) and a six-CD/DVD changer. The 35i and 35is can be equipped with 19-inch wheels.

Edmunds Tested: Electric Car Range and Consumption

Our 2024 Tesla Model 3 Performance Is an Edmunds U-Drags Assassin

Audi RS 6 Avant vs. BMW M5 Touring: Big Wagons Hit the Track

Tested: 2025 BMW M4 Is Pure and Nearly Perfect (and Pink!)
Compare 2011 BMW Z4 trim levels
Helpful trims summary and side-by-side comparison chart
Cost to Drive
Monthly estimates based on costs in Texas
$198/mo for Z4 sDrive30i
Z4 sDrive30i
vs
$145/mo
Avg. Compact Car
Reliability Ratings by RepairPal
3 out of 5 stars3/5Above Average
#14 out of 26 among Luxury Compact Cars
RepairPal Reliability Ratings are based on the actual cost, frequency, and severity of unscheduled repairs and maintenance on make/model data for select 2008-2022 vehicles. The reliability of a specific vehicle may vary depending on its maintenance and driving history, model year, trim, and features.
Cost
$583/yr
vs. $554/yr
for Average Luxury Compact Car
for Average Luxury Compact Car
Frequency
1.49x/yr
vs. 1.57x/yr
for Average Luxury Compact Car
for Average Luxury Compact Car
Severity
16.9%
vs. 11.1%
for Average Luxury Compact Car
for Average Luxury Compact Car
powered by RepairPal
BMW Z4 Owner Reviews
Most Helpful Owner Reviews
Trending topics
2011 Z4 sDrive35is, A Smile Making Machine!
5 out of 5 starsMarkandSusan Cartisano, 03/05/2015
2011 BMW Z4 sDrive35is 2dr Convertible (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 7AM)
Purchased a CPO Z4 sDrive35si with all the options and limited edition interior... 25k miles. This car is a smile making machine! First, I drive in the real world, not a test track. If you can make this care misbehave in a turn, you're going too fast for real roads! It is super tight and sticks to corners like glue! Heart pounding and big smile! The most amazing thing is the power … band never quits! Ever hit a golf ball just right and watched it rocket away only to see it get a second blast of power! That's the Z4... You punch it down and it blasts off, hits 110mph in a flash and then blasts off again! It wants and has so much more! All this in a comfort that no Boxster can provide.
Dream, or Nightmare?
5 out of 5 starsMeffy, 07/07/2010
2009 BMW Z4 sDrive35i 2dr Convertible (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 6M)
After my 08 Z4 was totaled by a teenager, I made the mistake of driving this car. This engine paired with the 7 speed transmission is the best drive-train I've ever driven, and that includes owning a Vette, Boxster, Jag XK, and my 08. My research showed an all-too-common complaint with the fuel pump failure and oil overheating. Knowing this, I still bought this car. I may regret it … someday but unlike most modern muscle, this car gives you mega-power below 2K revs and keeps it through 5K with little or no turbo lag. Compare with the M3 which gives you almost nothing until you hit 4500 revs. The M3 may be the better track car, but I drive on the street. Nothing else can match this Z for daily use.
My Dream Car
4.63 out of 5 starsadonis13, 03/01/2013
2011 BMW Z4 sDrive30i 2dr Convertible (3.0L 6cyl 6M)
I've always wanted a BMW Z roadster ever since I test drove a Z3 in San Diego.
At the time, I had just started working full time.
I have always been an Engineer, but at the time I had a mountain of debt.
When I finally had the means to purchase my dream car, Chris Bangle (Germany's answer to Sir Mix-a-Lot) violated the Z3's successor, the first generation Z4.
So, I had to wait 7 long … years for that abomination to leave the stage.
The E89 Z4 was worth the wait.
Strangers and acquaintences alike come up to me all the time to tell me that I have a beautiful car.
I don't need a car that costs any more money, has any more performance, or looks any better (if possible).
SO much fun!!
4.88 out of 5 starsBMW Addict, 01/26/2010
2009 BMW Z4 sDrive30i 2dr Convertible (3.0L 6cyl 6M)
Just purchased the re-designed Z4. I have owned three Z4's, kept trying to talk myself into liking the previous version, to no avail. The new Z4 is a winner. The interior is roomier both in length and width, which is great for my 6' frame. The 3.0 has plenty of power. The only options I got were auto and heated seats. The body is rigid but not abusive when driving. Easily a commuter car. … The styling is flawless - be prepared for people staring at you. If you can find an '09, grab it, BMW is giving a $5000 cash rebate if you finance. Mine had a sticker of $49k and I got it for $39,300!! Can't' wait for summer! I turned in a Lexus IS250 Vert - Lexus = fun to RIDE in, BMW = fun to DRIVE!!
We have a limited number of reviews for the 2011 BMW Z4, so we've included reviews for other years of the Z4 since its last redesign.
2011 Z4 Highlights
sDrive30i
Base MSRP Excludes Destination Fee | $47,450 |
---|---|
Engine Type | Gas |
Combined MPG | 22 MPG |
Cost to Drive | $198/month |
Seating | 2 seats |
Cargo Capacity All Seats In Place | 8.0 cu.ft. |
Drivetrain | rear wheel drive |
Warranty | 4 years / 50,000 miles |
Safety
Key safety features on the Z4 include:
- Tire Pressure Warning
- Stability Control
- Post-collision safety system
People who viewed this also viewed
5.0 average Rating out of 3 reviews. |
Starting at $51,150 |
4.7 average Rating out of 3 reviews. |
Starting at $79,700 |
Starting at $91,700 |
Related Used 2011 BMW Z4 info
Vehicle reviews of used models
- Nissan Rogue Sport 2021 Review
- Volvo V90 2021 Review
- Nissan Maxima 2021 Review
- Acura NSX 2020 Review
- Nissan Titan 2021 Review
Shop similar models
- Used Mercedes-benz Slc-class 2020
- Used BMW M4 2026
- Used Porsche Boxster 2016
- Used Mercedes-benz Slk-class 2016
Shop used vehicles in your area
- Used BMW Z3 2010
- Used BMW Z3 2016 For Sale
- Used BMW Z3 2019
- Used BMW Z4 2011 For Sale
- Used BMW Z4 2012
- Used BMW Z4 2013
- Used BMW Z4 2014
- Used BMW Z4 2015
- Used BMW Z4 2020
- Used BMW Z4 2021
Popular new car reviews and ratings
- 2026 Toyota GR86 News
- BMW X5 2025
- New Audi e-tron GT
- 2025 Sorento Hybrid
- 2024 Chevrolet Trax
- 2026 Chevrolet Trax News
- 2026 X7
- 2024 Atlas Cross Sport
- 2024 Sportage
- Subaru Ascent 2025
Research other models of BMW
- 2026 BMW 5 Series
- New BMW X4
- 2025 BMW X3
- New BMW X7
- New BMW 4 Series Gran Coupe
- New BMW X5 M
- New BMW 3 Series
- BMW X6 M 2026
Research similar vehicles
Other models
- Used Lexus LC-500 in Fountain Valley, CA 2023
- Used Audi E-Tron in Bridgewater, NJ 2023
- Used Porsche 718-Cayman in Duncanville, TX 2025
- Used Volvo S70 in Lynbrook, NY 2000
- New Kia K4 for Sale in Elmwood Park, IL
- Used Aston-Martin Vanquish in Vestal, NY 2025
- Used Subaru Solterra in Phillipsburg, NJ 2025
- Used Oldsmobile Bravada in Walnut Creek, CA 2004
- Used Ford Bronco in Leesburg, FL 2025
- Used Hyundai Santa-Fe-Plug-In-Hybrid in Elk Grove, CA 2023