Ready yourself for summer with this car.
2009-2016 BMW Z4
History
We all know that BMW has a soft spot for SUVs and sedans with a touch of class while providing sports car handling, bet you don't know that the Munich based manufacturer had produced convertibles since the 1950s with the 507. Although it looked good, this 501 and 502 based vehicle proved to be expensive - despite its position to fill the gap between the cheap British convertibles from Triumph and MG and the top end Mercedes Benz 300SL - and after a run of 252 units built between 1956 to 1959, it was discontinued. The limited release Z1 was introduced in 1989 and only 8,000 were built but only in 1995 they got serious with the Z3.
Similar to its predecessors, the second generation Z4 (with chassis code E89) was first announced in December 2008 with sales started in May 2009. One notable change for this vehicle is it assembled in Bavaria, Germany and not in South Carolina, USA as it was the case of its older brothers, with the latter now exclusively building SUVs for worldwide consumption. Production ended in August 2016 with rumors of a replacement model jointly built by BMW and Toyota.
Alongside several new models such as the fifth generation 7 Series, the second generation Z4 arrived in Philippine shores in September 2009 in one variant, the sDrive 3.0.
Value and Costs
Brand new, you can get this one for six million pesos until a price drop in 2015 which slashed the price to P4,500,000. What used to be a rich kids plaything used during the weekends can be now yours for a price range between P2,400,000 to P3,500,000 bucks. As a rule for premium brands, checking out the certified pre-owned section is the wise move.
Do not compare this one with the likes of the Mazda MX-5, rather maintaining one is similar to its compatriots, the Mercedes Benz SLK Class and the Porsche Boxster, which is definitely on the higher side. For such a vehicle like the Z4, do inspect the electronic parts thoroughly and the top if its folds properly.
Exterior and Interior
Philippine market models have a hard top as standard, which was followed suit by several German rivals for our market. Remove the badge, its kidney grille gives an identity that it is distinctively BMW. Let us leave the design alone, which speaks for itself.
Inside, more space was given for the occupants and slightly for the folding top, which hogs trunk space when used. Another room for improvement is the interior quality, with better materials used than before.
Engine
Paired to an N52B30 3.0 inline six which produces 255hp at 6,600rpm and 310Nm at 2,600rpm, this one is a willing performer. It does not disappoint you and it gives you a smooth tone whether driving slow or full bore.
Driving Impressions
Just like all BMWs, this is one entertaining driver thanks to a communicative chassis with an exhaust note similar to muscle cars and a smooth engine, While fun to drive, it pales in comparison with the Porsche Boxster though.
Verdict
An improvement over its predecessor, the second generation Z4 still doesn't stray from the core values of a BMW. What used to be expensive when brand new is now affordable and could be a potential classic.
Showing posts with label bmw z4. Show all posts
Showing posts with label bmw z4. Show all posts
Monday, February 6, 2017
Friday, January 6, 2017
Car Profiles - BMW Z4 (2009-2016)
2009-2016 BMW Z4
The Good: Thrilling and handsome looking
The Bad: Puny engine, impractical
The Say: Enjoyable to drive that has some flaws.
Go For: sDrive 3.0i
Avoid:
Price Range: P2,400,000-P3,500,000
Our Rating: ****
Related Review: Used Car Review - BMW Z4 (2009-2016)
See the different versions of this vehicle:
2009-2016
The Good: Thrilling and handsome looking
The Bad: Puny engine, impractical
The Say: Enjoyable to drive that has some flaws.
Go For: sDrive 3.0i
Avoid:
Price Range: P2,400,000-P3,500,000
Our Rating: ****
Related Review: Used Car Review - BMW Z4 (2009-2016)
See the different versions of this vehicle:
2009-2016
Wednesday, May 20, 2015
BMW Z4 Coupe - Generation 1.2 (2006-2009)
BMW Z4 COUPE (2006-2009)
Tuesday, May 19, 2015
BMW Z4 Convertible - Generation 1.2 (2006-2009)
BMW Z4 CONVERTIBLE (2006-2009)
An update done in 2006 gave birth to a revised 2.5 and 3.0 engines (the manual was dropped) and an M version. This generation lasted until 2009 where a second generation model was launched.
BMW Z4 Convertible - Generation 1.1 (2003-2006)
BMW Z4 CONVERTIBLE (2003-2006)
Larger than the Z3 it replaces, the Z4 has more mass and more stiff than the model it preceded. For this version, only the 2.5 inline six which can be had with either manual or automatic transmissions is available.
Thursday, December 11, 2014
Car Profiles - BMW Z4 Coupe (2006-2009)
The Good: Great performance, rigidity due to metal top
The Bad: Firm ride, not for everyone
The Say: A looker and a tire screamer at the same time.
Go For: 3.0si
Avoid: M Coupe
Price Range: Data Not Available
Our Rating: ****
Related Reviews: None as of the Moment
See the different versions of this vehicle:
2006-2009
Wednesday, September 17, 2014
BMW Z4 - Generation 2 (2009-2016)
BMW Z4
Continuing for its second generation model, this one gets a 3.0 engine with lots of gadgetry and a metal folding roof.
Tuesday, February 12, 2013
Car Profiles - BMW Z4 Convertible (2003-2009)
The Good: Impressive handling, manual shifter is fun
The Bad: Firm ride, impractical
The Say: Fun and entertaining to drive and to look at.
Go For: 3.0si
Avoid:
Price Range: P1,325,000-P1,750,000
Our Rating: ****
Related Review: Used Car Review - BMW Z4 (2003-2009)
See the different versions of this vehicle:
2003-2006
2006-2009
Monday, February 11, 2013
Used Car Review - BMW Z4 (2003-2009)
Ready for summer? Myk Belmonte finds one perfect companion to satisfy the need for wind this coming summer season.
2003-2009 BMW Z4
History
Criticisms are something that can be taken seriously for the better, or they exist just to hurt other people. The first type is what we call the "constructive criticism", this one aims to improve a person or a product for the better. But the other category of criticism aims to hurt others and what they say does not apply to that person, but rather to themselves. Those who had negative comments about the previous Z3 were taken seriously for the Z4.
Design for the Z4 happened from 1998 to 2000, years that the Z3 was on sale. You might not know this fellow named Anders Warming, he designed this convertible but somewhat with a touch of controversy which we will talk about later. First introduced at the Paris Auto Show 11 years ago and first put on sale in November 2002. The Z4 is more larger than its predecessor, and uses a different suspension set-up for the rear, but aluminum was used to offset the weight. The Z4 E85 is the regular convertible while the coupe version is called the Z4 E86, with the latter being available in 2006, which also coincides with a refreshening for the Z4. 2009 was the last year for this generation, with a newer model being released later that year.
This sexy drop top was offered to the Filipinos in 2003, courtesy of the previous distributor BMW Philippines. With the rest of the world, a refresh was done in 2006 together with the launch of the Coupe and and its corresponding M version and dropped in the line-up in anticipation of the E89 Z4 in 2009.
Value and Costs
The topless (not what you see in FHM) fun can be yours for just between P1,700,000-P2,800,000. And if possible, get yourself a certified pre-owned unit from a BMW dealership near you. They do have the assurance of being inspected and a warranty is provided.
Convertibles are fun to have and the ownership can be a nightmare if the unit purchased is not well maintained. If you want one, make sure you know where to buy the parts and importantly, the top goes down seamlessly and the material used in the non-metal ones are intact.
Exterior and Interior
Having some cues of previous Bimmer convertibles, the Z4 has some retro lines, a wide body, and some short overhangs. For the Coupe version, it simply has some swag and aggressive looks. The convertible utilizes a canvas top while the coupe has a metal top. Going to the controversial side, Warming designed the vehicle with some cues from BMWs that are designed by Chris Bangle.
Straightforward and simple inside, the driver does not experience any awkward seating positions which afflicted various convertibles. Gauges are positioned where they must be, in front of the driver. Controls are scattered everywhere against the Z3, and thankfully, no iDrive. Two people would perfectly fit inside, and its not cramped than the model it replaced.
Engine
Three inline six engines are available for local Z4's. Offered from 2003-2006 is the base M54B25 2,494cc that has 192hp at 6,000rpm and 245Nm at 3,500rpm. The standard engine (and you'll encounter this one more often while hunting) is the N52B30 2,996cc which has 265hp at 6,600rpm and 315Nm at 2,500-4,000rpm. M versions meanwhile get the S54B32 3,246cc which possess 340hp at 7,900rpm and 365Nm at 4,900rpm. Forget about picking the 2.5 engine since it lacks the punch associated with Bimmers. For cruising purposes, the 3.0 version is more than enough, it has the speed at 2,000rpm but push it harder, reach 3,000rpm and above and hear the sound of the burble reminiscent of the M3. The 3.2 engine will give you the satisfaction for speed.
Driving Impressions
Thanks to the different suspension set-up that was forgone from the Z3 (it does not have that severely harsh ride, but a bit hushed), the Z4 is a joy to drive. The standard stability control would ensure the driving experience would be safe and the electric power steering responds to your needs. The ride can be harsh, but you get the grin on your face once you drive it.
Verdict
For sheer driving pleasure but with the top down at affordable prices, nothing beats the BMW Z4. Thanks to the accessibility of certified pre-owned units, having one parked in your garage is now closer to reality. My say? Stop dreaming and start driving,
2003-2009 BMW Z4
History
Criticisms are something that can be taken seriously for the better, or they exist just to hurt other people. The first type is what we call the "constructive criticism", this one aims to improve a person or a product for the better. But the other category of criticism aims to hurt others and what they say does not apply to that person, but rather to themselves. Those who had negative comments about the previous Z3 were taken seriously for the Z4.
Design for the Z4 happened from 1998 to 2000, years that the Z3 was on sale. You might not know this fellow named Anders Warming, he designed this convertible but somewhat with a touch of controversy which we will talk about later. First introduced at the Paris Auto Show 11 years ago and first put on sale in November 2002. The Z4 is more larger than its predecessor, and uses a different suspension set-up for the rear, but aluminum was used to offset the weight. The Z4 E85 is the regular convertible while the coupe version is called the Z4 E86, with the latter being available in 2006, which also coincides with a refreshening for the Z4. 2009 was the last year for this generation, with a newer model being released later that year.
This sexy drop top was offered to the Filipinos in 2003, courtesy of the previous distributor BMW Philippines. With the rest of the world, a refresh was done in 2006 together with the launch of the Coupe and and its corresponding M version and dropped in the line-up in anticipation of the E89 Z4 in 2009.
Value and Costs
The topless (not what you see in FHM) fun can be yours for just between P1,700,000-P2,800,000. And if possible, get yourself a certified pre-owned unit from a BMW dealership near you. They do have the assurance of being inspected and a warranty is provided.
Convertibles are fun to have and the ownership can be a nightmare if the unit purchased is not well maintained. If you want one, make sure you know where to buy the parts and importantly, the top goes down seamlessly and the material used in the non-metal ones are intact.
Exterior and Interior
Having some cues of previous Bimmer convertibles, the Z4 has some retro lines, a wide body, and some short overhangs. For the Coupe version, it simply has some swag and aggressive looks. The convertible utilizes a canvas top while the coupe has a metal top. Going to the controversial side, Warming designed the vehicle with some cues from BMWs that are designed by Chris Bangle.
Straightforward and simple inside, the driver does not experience any awkward seating positions which afflicted various convertibles. Gauges are positioned where they must be, in front of the driver. Controls are scattered everywhere against the Z3, and thankfully, no iDrive. Two people would perfectly fit inside, and its not cramped than the model it replaced.
Engine
Three inline six engines are available for local Z4's. Offered from 2003-2006 is the base M54B25 2,494cc that has 192hp at 6,000rpm and 245Nm at 3,500rpm. The standard engine (and you'll encounter this one more often while hunting) is the N52B30 2,996cc which has 265hp at 6,600rpm and 315Nm at 2,500-4,000rpm. M versions meanwhile get the S54B32 3,246cc which possess 340hp at 7,900rpm and 365Nm at 4,900rpm. Forget about picking the 2.5 engine since it lacks the punch associated with Bimmers. For cruising purposes, the 3.0 version is more than enough, it has the speed at 2,000rpm but push it harder, reach 3,000rpm and above and hear the sound of the burble reminiscent of the M3. The 3.2 engine will give you the satisfaction for speed.
Driving Impressions
Thanks to the different suspension set-up that was forgone from the Z3 (it does not have that severely harsh ride, but a bit hushed), the Z4 is a joy to drive. The standard stability control would ensure the driving experience would be safe and the electric power steering responds to your needs. The ride can be harsh, but you get the grin on your face once you drive it.
Verdict
For sheer driving pleasure but with the top down at affordable prices, nothing beats the BMW Z4. Thanks to the accessibility of certified pre-owned units, having one parked in your garage is now closer to reality. My say? Stop dreaming and start driving,
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