PREMIUM VALUE
Could it be that BMW’s E85-series Z4 is the bargain roadster of the moment? MX-5s are alright if you want mousey synthetic fabrics and four cylinders, while the previous Z3s are getting pricey for what is undoubtedly an inferior car. I mean, BMW didn’t spend millions of euros to develop a car worse than the Z3, a car that was okay but a bit challenged in some areas being based on technology that was old even when it was launched.
With good 2.8-and 3.0-litre Z3s now in the five-to-ten-grand arena, the Z4 is looking like a bargain at around half the price. Many may not consider it a true classic yet, but it’s 20 years old next year and probably a better bet than the 2009-onward E89 car with its metal roof and so-so turbo fours and sixes.
MODEL HISTORY
Arriving in 2003, the E85 Z4 was greeted with enthusiasm from the press upon its launch. With 170bhp 2.2-, 193bhp 2.5-and 231bhp 3.0-litre petrol straight-sixes, the new cars got a lot closer to challenging the Porsche Boxster than the Z3 ever did. The new ‘flame surfacing’ styling looked good from all angles with nothing retro in sight, and the E46 running gear meant that handling and ride were going to be approaching the Porsche – reckoned by most to be
