New drivers of the BMW Z4 sports car initially might feel as if they have a tiger by the tail because of its neck-snapping speed and catlike handling. But they soon find this two-seater has typical BMW refinement.
The radically styled rear-drive Z4 arrived for 2003, looking every inch a racy sports car. It's better in every way than its Z3 predecessor, which was introduced for 1996. The Z4 is longer and wider than the venerable Z3, with a roomier interior and more advanced engineering.
Some people like the elaborately sculpted styling of the Z4 -- others think it's over the top with its interplay of convex and concave surfaces. Only the precious ($289,000) late 1950s BMW 507 sports car had comparable radical styling in its day, and both cars share classic sports car long-hood/short-rear-deck styling.
Even the driving position of the Z4 is different from that of the Z3; you sit low in the Z4, whereas a Z3 driver felt as if he was sitting much too high -- as in an old sports car where you could casually hang an elbow over the side of the door.
New for 2004 are rain-sensing windshield wipers and steering wheel audio controls.
It's a sheer blast to drive the Z4. The electric power steering is precise, and the car handles and brakes beautifully, as if born to the road. The ride is firm, but not uncomfortable.
There's decent room for two robust occupants, although the console eats up too much space. The tilt-telescopic leather-wrapped steering wheel lets most everyone get comfortable, but the car's low stance means extra agility is needed to get in and out.
Gauges can be quickly read and controls work smoothly
Don't look for much interior storage area. On the other hand, the low, wide trunk is fairly large for a small two-seater, and BMW says two golf bags fit. A spare tire has been left out to help provide decent trunk room, so the Z4 comes with run-flat tires
There are two smooth, advanced inline (not V-shaped) six-cylinder engines. The 2.5-liter engine comes in the $33,600 2.5i version and generates 184 horsepower. The 3-liter engine is in the $40,900 3.0i model and provides 225 horsepower and more torque.
Acceleration is strong with either engine, although the car is a rocket with the 3-liter unit; it propels the Z4 to 60 mph in -- hold on tight! --5.3 seconds. But the lower-priced Z4 is no slouch, hitting 60 mph in 6.9 seconds, so you can save $7,300 by not getting the top-line Z4 and still enjoy pretty swift acceleration.
The 2.5i comes with a standard five-speed manual gearbox, while the 3.0i has a six-speed manual.
Both models offer two optional transmissions, and they aren't cheap. For instance, the five-speed automatic transmission with manual shift capability costs $1,275. The six-speed sequential manual transmission with steering wheel shift paddles and no clutch is $1,500 and requires the $1,200 Sport package.
The 2.5i is well-equipped with such items as air conditioning; power windows, mirrors and locks, and remote keyless entry. But it's easy to hit the wrong button on the key fob and accidentally open the trunk -- it happened to me twice.
The car is carefully built and has a rigid body structure free of cowl shakes. Safety items include side air bags, active knee protection, anti-lock brakes, roll bars, traction control and an anti-skid system.
Both models have a standard manual top with a heated glass rear window instead of a cheap plastic one. Wind buffeting is low with the top down at 65 mph, and the interior is surprisingly quiet with the top and windows raised. However, rear visibility is poor with the top raised.
Besides its more potent engine, the 3.0i adds cruise control, leather upholstery, a premium sound system and huge tires on 17-inch (vs. 16-inch) wheels for sharper handling but a stiffer ride.
Option packages are pricey. For example, an automatic power convertible top for the 2.5i comes in a $3,300 Premium package, which also contains leather-covered power seats. A power top for the 3.0i is in a $1,900 Premium package.
The $1,200 Sport package for the 3.0i contains a sport suspension with a lowered ride height, unique alloy wheels and a button-activated Dynamic Driving Control feature for quicker throttle action and reduced power steering assist for more of a race-car feel. It's offered for the 2.5i for $1,500.
A navigation system is $1,800. Power seats are $995, and cost another $500 if heated.
The basic Z4 2.5i with no options (well -- maybe with heated seats for winter) is just fine, although the 3.0i with the Sport package is mighty tempting.
Either way, you can't lose with this car.
2004 BMW Z4 Prices
$33,600-$40,900
Likes
Unusually racy styling. Fast. Superb handling. Refined.
Dislikes
Top-up visibility. Scant interior storage. Costly option packages.