Should You Buy a BMW Z4? (Test Drive & Review)
ฝัง
- เผยแพร่เมื่อ 11 ก.ย. 2024
- If you're interested in getting into the used car industry, check out the website below for more information on my online course. It's only £27 per month with biweekly livestreams! There are nearly 100 videos covering a whole range of topics. Plus you can cancel at any time. Click below.
Visit www.highpeakautosacademy.com or click this link bit.ly/3rNtNhG
The BMW Z4 has been around for a very long time. Let's see what they're like.
I've borrowed this car from my colleague - it's listed on his website:
www.nickfordat...
Check out my website: www.highpeakau...
Check out the HIGH PEAK store: www.highpeakst...
Follow Me:
Instagram - / highpeakautos
Facebook - / highpeakautos
Twitter - / highpeakautos
Several people have kindly offered to donate some money towards production costs. If you would like to do the same see the Patreon or PayPal info below - thank you :)
Patreon: / highpeakautos
PayPal: highpeakautos@outlook.com
Equipment I Use To Make These Videos:
Main GoPro: amzn.to/2EAow5V
Main Camera: amzn.to/2VTKXc2
Microphone: amzn.to/2EAUwqu
Lav Mic: amzn.to/2EzvwA5
Laptop: amzn.to/2EywmNg
Secondary GoPro: amzn.to/2JEX76S
#bmw #bmwz4 #z4 #highpeakautos
I've driven my Z4 2003 thousands of miles, roadtripping the country in a few months, I've owned it for close to 2 years as a daily driver and I can tell you for a fact that it's very reliable! I've only had to fix the casual plastic parts that break, but overall the engine and the car is bulletproof! I've had a Toyota that broke down more than my Z4! This car is very underrated!
Pleased to hear it!
and may I ask, how is the sound dampening with the top up? Noisy, or can you have normal level convesation and listen to music OK?
I have a BMW z4 2007 and I love it very much. Everytime I drive it? The heads all turn . It is a safvire black ,it glitters very much. That car owe,s me nothing. Bests car that I have ever bought.
Saw one the other day at the highway and I thought what a beautiful car, I'm looking to buy one now.@@johndion2885
which engine do you mean?
The BMW Z4 has aged very well future classic for sure.
Was looking at some today might get one next summer if corona doesn't financially ruin me even more
@@Birmingham_racing it's a tricky situation I'm also not sure if I should spend any money on toys as I'm worried about my job being cut. Anyway hopefully 2021 will be better for everyone.
@@dg115 it’s worse 2021
@@JittyLaRoot It will get better
Future classis is z3
Nice motor; would definitely consider one as I'm approaching that mid-life crisis time.
Mark Fender do it and forget the midlife nonsense, only spouted by folks who wish they had one but haven’t got the balls to tell their wife they’re gonna get one because she wants to ferry the whole neighbourhood and all her family, friends and kid’s friends around in a shitty people carrier! Someone showed me and gave me a lift in their brand new Nissan Leaf the other day! Tried to sell it to me in every way, Personally I’d rather be driven around in a prison cell that had been subject to a dirty protest than own or drive a Nissan Leaf
Jason LX - We’ve got a 7 seater and I’ve got a 5 series touring, so my car is definitely shrinking when it comes round to being changed. If I could fit in a Z4 or Boxset they would certainly be considered.
Got that engine in a 3 series. Its sweet.
Sane here
It comes to us all eventually. 😁
After selling my 911 to buy a house, I bought a Z4M as a stop gap fun weekend toy. I’ve always liked the look of these modern classics and that e46 m3 engine is chaos. It’s a keeper for sure. They are just going up in value now...
That and the Honda S2000 have aged very well👍🏻
Brian Fowler I agree
Pero mejor el BMW Z4
Great review. I'm in my 50's and of average health. I've been running one for 18months and have developed a method for getting out that involves pushing off with my right hand on the sill. It stops you making the "grunt" sound. LOL.
I have the 3 litre E89 Z4 although not as hardcore as this one, it's still fantastic and I like the fact that it is both a coupe and convertible thanks to the hard top. Even at 10 years old the design hasn't aged the two women who design the interior and exterior of this car have done real fine job!
Had a £3k one of these for a short time, most basic one, but we loved it.
There ARE cupholders, you have to press a little button on your right ( near the stearing wheel ) and they pop out - i have the same model myself
But they are useless and break so easy haha. Think I used mine once in the 6 years of owning my 03
@@DDT997 Did you do the trick where you put the cup in, remove it and give it one more click? Use mine all the time.
It's a 2 seater ,who really gives a monkies about cup holders
@@LOTPOR0402 people who like to have a drink in the car especially if they are doing a long journey
The BEST Z4 review by a long margin was made from an owner's colleague (and on top of that the owner didn't know that his car was driven and reviewed)! 😂
well done for all that information you included in a less than 10min video !
1st gen Z4s are still among the best looking cars BMW has made to my eyes, especially the coupe.
I see no point in going for an auto roadster though...
I had an Alpina Coup 3.0 Straight 6 years ago. Nothing since from them seems to have Classic feel about them. One car i do regret selling.Just felt so well built.
Love the looks, I had the Z4M hard top in black and it was the car of my dreams. I still regret selling it and I will buy another one one day. 10/10 would recommend.
Greetings from New Zealand and your latest subscriber. I bought my 2006 Z4 three years ago. Prior to that and over the past 30 years I’d owned Porsche 928’s, ( two of which were 5speed manuals and an S4 auto) The Z4 is my first BMW and I absolutely love it. What I particularly like is that it brought back for me the simple pleasure of driving for the hell of it, not that the 928’s weren’t fun, but they weren’t able to drop their roofs which is why I went for the Z4 as it reminded me of my 1973 TR6 from my younger days. So yes by all means the Z4 is a fabulous car to drive and to own
Really liked the Z4 when it came out with its dramatic modern styling. Still looks fresh.
The lines of the z4 just scream classic sports car. Check out the old bmw 507 roadster and you can easily see it in the z4
what i like the most about the car is its looks. a massive bonnet and unique rear end. it also doesnt scream german car.
Nice review. I had a 2007 3.0SI with the 6 speed for a few years. It was great fun driving back and forth from work (highway driving). It was an absolute blast merging from an on-ramp. Mine had cup holders that would pop out from the dash. Not great, but, they were there. I eventually swapped out the run-flats for Michelin PS2s which improved the driving experience tremendously, as yes, the run flats tram-line and make the car very ‘darty’.
Thanks for the memories!
Around month ago picked up z3 2001 , sport package., came with all 4 new alloy wheels all 4 new tires and roof was replaced last summer, full service history ( owners son owns bmw dealership so well looked after) all invoices provided! Paid 500€ for it here in Germany .. bought it as an investment, it’s now my daily driver! Love it !
Sometimes you just happen to be at right place right time to find a deal!
Nevertheless great video! Happy I found your channel!
God, yes. Love the Z8 just as much. Great piece of design.
Same is true for the first generation Z4. Just a very timeless styling.
My z4 is 17 years old now with 110,000 miles. Still drives well. Other than two lower front ball joints and a brake sensor ( both common faults) its cost very little over the last 5 years I’ve owned it. Considering what it cost to buy and run, its a great fun per pounds :-)
Convertibles are no good to me, cannot get wind in my hair.Don't have any.
Being follically challenged hasn't stopped me😀
Greymark I’m bald so the hair thing doesn’t worry me but I can’t get out of them - very sad. Enjoy the day
I love the gonads comment
Maybe you’ve now finally found a use for nostril hair?
@@MRFUCKOFF202 Never thought of that, good idea. 😅
The biggest mistake I ever made was selling my Z4 Coupe 3.0 Sport with 28 k on the clock ...Prices are now on the rise and it will be a future classic.
I agree
This is a very underrated roadster I've enjoyed 05 so far. Minimal maintenance required and car looks very sleek for 2020. 146k an running fine
There are cup holders, they pop out and sit below the side vents although they are fragile and
often broken. At least they were present on my 2004 Z4
They were an optional extra I believe not standard
@@HighPeakAutos never seen one without the cup holders, they're well hidden, you push the slim panel under the side vent and it pops out. I've had an 04 3.0i, 06 3.0si and now daily drive a 3.0si... Turner Motorsports tune and an aFe cold air box make an additional 25 horsepower.
Oh my goodness, I can see at 1:10 on the left there is a blank spot where the cup holder should be... How terrible!
@@HighPeakAutos They are standard all Z4 equipped with cup holders.
Texas0bserver I have a 2006 3.0i, it looks the same and it has push-out cupholders right under the air vent. That little rectangular piece that looks like an ash tray on the extreme sides
As a Z3 driver, I encourage you to try a 3.0 like mine, your POV will change for sure ;) But there is a but, your opinion will change only if you accept that a Z3 is more kind of an "old" ride, when a Z4 is a modern car. That means that a Z3 is much more "alive" and not rigorous, absolutely not efficient in its handling, whether the Z4 is a much better handling car, much more precise and rigorous, but it brings also a lot less fun ;)
The 3.0 to be fair is pretty good. Youre right
Another great honest review Matt, thank you.
At my age and disability, I might get in to something like this, but I would never be able to get out of the bloody thing.
It's the type of car you really don't get in and out off, you just wear it.
Spot on.
Getting in is easy,gravity is helping you.
However getting out is the acid test.
Bootneck Haha yes that’s right. Getting out is a challenge
@@brianiswrong 🏎👍
Took your advice and got a 2003 3.0 Z4 as a weekend toy. Got the auto as I drive a manual every day and think the auto box suits the car. Was going to go for a 2.0 as at the time the reviews of it were good but so glad I watched this and went for the bigger engine. And it has a sport button you actually want to press now and again!
And like you said about short-term owners cherishing it, the previous owner had just stuck four new regular (not run flat) tyres on it so the ride is just perfect for a little sports car.
I love the coupé version. A design classic and that duck tail looks amazing.
I have a 2008 coupé and I love it... but the cup holders are crap 😂
@@glennruss1972
Not a bad first world problem to have.
If I had a garage and a dog that didn't have to go everywhere with me, I would definitely have one. Just a great design. The silhouette is unmistakable.
Hey, I just drink my coffee before I leave for work lol. My dog gets in the back of mine without any problem at all. He’s a medium sized dog, sort of Labrador size
@@glennruss1972
Oh, ok. So space for a spaniel then. Hmm maybe I should start looking on autotrader again. Thanks for the dog storage advice😃👍
Enough room for two spaniels, buy another dog as well 😂
I like the styling of the Z4, my aunt had a 2011 Z4 and it was nice but I was far too tall for it which meant I would be unable to drive it. Great review
I have 2006 3.0si and I’m 6’3”. There are about 2in b/w the top of my head and the softtop.
@alan As long as you are not tick around the waste, you'll fit well.
Good honest review Mat. I have had my E 85 Z4 for nine years now, it’s a 2007 2.0 M Sport. I do wish on hindsight I bought the 3.0 si, but I was worried about fuel consumption. But hindsight is lovely isn’t it. I have had a fantastic nine years with my Z4, she has been reliable as a Toyota Corolla, only problem I have had on a regular occurrence is the rear springs are liable to break (not in a dangerous way) due to the geometry. I fitted normal tyres straight away & they made a world of difference to the ride. The tramline tendencies disappeared & the ride comfort improved massively. Great car, it’s light, cheap to service, fabric hood is a work of genius & in my opinion, it still looks a million dollars for the buck!
simon makinson pleased to hear it! Tyres make a huge difference don’t they 👍🏻
My misses had a silver z3 with a 6 cylinder 2 litre engine , that apparently they didn’t import many to the uk , wasn’t a bad car , she then looked at a nice z4 but didn’t bother and bought something else , cheers Shane uk 🇬🇧 I personally don’t like the shape of the z4 and think the curvy z3 looked better to my eyes , thanks Shane
I have a 2003 E85 as my second mid life crisis car. (It replaced an MGB that I could not really drive anymore for health reasons).
Got the 3.0i and six speed and it is awesome fun. Oddly mine has cupholders but yes the interior storage space is not at all great. Boot is pretty good though for a little car.
Seats are comfortable as and as a fat middle aged office worker I can manage getting in and out just fine. The run flats are a pain and yes tram lining can be an issue. Especially on actual tramlines. Still it is fast, agile, economic and so much fun to drive. I am really happy with my Z4 - it is a fantastic ride. Mine has had two previous owners and 135000 kms on the clock and I have had to replace a water pump.
Good review by the way.
I was lucky enough to have one of the 3.0L manuals back in the day, and it was a really great car with an amazing engine. The sound from that inline 6 cylinder was lovely.
I struggled with the run-flat tyres too, but overall I found it was amazing. I got 35mpg+ on the motorway, which is insane given how powerful it was.
This is one of my all-time favourite cars.
Great car , love it even with its little faults, it is beautiful looking stylish, one of BMW;s triumphs, even though the critics panned it, brilliant car, would love one in the dark blue they did it in. Great to see it get a review , buy it from your mate go on buy it!
Just bought one about a month ago, and god I love it! Most of the equipment you mention missing from it were in fact optional extras (which you probably know). Mine is a 5-spd 2.5i (the 192hp version). It came up for sale quite near where I live, it had decent mileage, it had all the typical Z4 stuff sorted (like the roof) and I managed to get it for a good price so I just went for that one instead of spending a couple of grand more and having to keep looking for the right one. But to be fair, it is quite enough in terms of performance. Wouldn't go for the 2.2/2.0 though. Also I have to say, I would take (which I did) the 5-spd 2.5i over an automatic 3.0i any day of the week. Like you said, I think the manual suits the car MUCH better. Mine also has heated seats and cup holders, which is nice :-)
Good choice with the extras! Theyre a must
Try a 3.0i mate its a whole different ballgame
Good review Mat. I have the 3.0si coupe on an 07. High mileage at 164 but it runs like a Swiss watch. I often think of selling it as I hardly use it but then I look at its ass and I just can't. It's beautiful! Always a buzz to see you put a new video up! 👍👍
chris coleman Thanks for watching! I like the coupes. They look great
Exactly my thoughts with my e89. Every time when I convinced myself selling her, I catch myself looking over my shoulder again when walking away. Its those couple of seconds that make a car special. And I decide to keep her for another year cause she’s such a gorgeous car and a joy to drive. Even if its just for the odd weekend here or there.
Excellent review as a 3.0 Z4 owner I think you nailed that. My 76k 03 cost me 4K and drives fantastic, dire ride on rough roads though 😩
Theyre great bargains at that kind of money
I have a 2004 Z4 3.0i 6 speed manual (E85 model). M54 engine. Sport package. The car now has 60,000 original miles. If you have the time, skills, and find joy in maintaining the car, you will love it. The right tires make a huge difference in performance / handling. Front and rear tires are different sizes on my model, so forget about rotating the tires to extend tire life. The car is terrific in warm or cold dry weather. It is absolutely not drivable in the snow.
There are aftermarket cup holders available because the factory cup holders are poorly designed. Overall, super fun and reliable over all these years but you must follow the maintenance schedule (for example change the oil annually even if it has not been driven many miles). Only use OE or OEM parts. Enjoy!
I do not own one or a Bmw Fan but of all the z cars i would say the z3 and this Z4 look better than the new z4 much more stylish and they do not look dated like the new model is already.
My z4 has heated seats but no cupholders they are all optional accessories, the cupholders are the rarest thing I know in an otherwise usual sports car. I know they exist I've seen videos about them but every z4 on sale does not have them.
Also getting out of the car has one secret to it. You have to get up in one single motion while holding your arm onto the seat to kinda bounce up. And while getting in just get in there ass first to the seat and throw your legs in with the same motion. Otherwise it looks really dumb and you'll make the noises. If the roof is down getting up and in is so much easier you can just hop in over the door without even opening it (that requires a little practice) but it's a cool party trick
On the centre console there is a sport button. It makes the throttle response quicker and sharpens the steering.
On the back of the engine is a tube going into the firewall. Inside are two filters. Remove one or both and it lets more engine sound into the cabin. Hehe
A friend of mine has a Z8 for sale, low mileage, FSH absolutely mint condition and about 40k under trade price. He asked me the other day if I know anyone that would be interested cos he needed a quick sale, I immediately thought of you mate because I know you have always desired after one 👌👌 Before I contacted you I thought I would check if it had cupholders and a place to store your sunglasses, he replied no sorry it doesn't !!!!!!!!! my reply to him was no he wouldn't be interested then 🤣🤣🤣🤣
stevie 007 Haha forget it! I’m not driving one with nowhere for my drink 😂
40k under trade is 150k, they auction for more than that!
Just bought a 630 and now on the look out for one of these. For less than the down payment in a miserable 4 pot diesel you can get yourself into one of these. Much more fun
I agree!
Great review! I have a very similar Z4, it's a 2006 3.0si with manual. I've had it for 4 years now and it is the most reliable car we have in my entire family! Nothing has ever gone wrong! Absolutely agree with the ride, it can be very harsh sometimes. The engine is brilliant, you just want to rev it more and more. Oh, and by the way, there are hidden cupholders under the side air vents :)
Cupholders weren't fitted to all models.
Cup holders were £75 ea. from BMW + fitting! Should be called can holders! Bottle will just fall out!
@@saddoncarrs6963 I see, thanks and apols for confusion!
Z3 & Z4 don't do it for me, but the Z8 now THAT is a car! Saw one in the BMW development center outside Munich in 2000. They started it up (indoors) and that was it for me! They sound absolutely brilliant.
whitemoor66 I love them. Such a timeless design
I have owned a 3.0 coupe and a Z4M coupe (neither with run flats), fun cars, but I owned a Z3M coupe before that and it was so much more fun, especially after a bit of suspension work, that’s the only car I wish I still had.
Always liked the Z3 but much prefer the facelifted version, much nicer headlights
Well done Matt you did it ( Fifty thousand Subs ) 👍👍👍👍👍👍👍 A great achievement in such a short space of time, and may I say totally deserved 👍👍👍👍👍 Steve
Thanks Steve! I appreciate your continued support :)
I got a black z4 2.5 si. It definitely has cup holders on the far right and left. Make sure you buy the 'SI' version , they are much better than the regular ones . I know as I had one of the originals before switching to the SI
Love the fact that you just get on with the video, no bs intros, no likecommentsub begging and such.
Thanks! I dont like to do that, as a viewer it annoys me
ABS pumps fail- but rather than pay BMW a four figure sum, remove unit and send off to ECU tuning who will repair it with superior parts and give a lifetime warranty for around £350.
Also, water pumps can fail at higher mileages- about £450 fitted for new.
Springs are prone to snapping- most Z4 owners(well, those's in the know) replace with Suplex springs- and fit Bilstein dampers that transform it from a crashy ride- to much more compliant but better composure in the corners.
As you said, ditch the run flats!
That N52 engine is a peach!
And coil packs.
M54 cheaper to buy and run. Water pump for example.
Super insightful on the multiple ownership snd one owner cars . It’s all about how the car has been cared for . Many people who can afford to buy a toy for driving , can afford the jump around money wise till they get the perfect car for their lifestyle. Not necessarily the one they thought would be best. Great review, really enjoyed your insight and fun on point comments. Cheers !
About to close purchase on one and your review affirms everything I thought during my test drive! Wasn't the plan yesterday! But what are yuh gonna do, you can't take the money with yuh! My Golf Clubs fit, so practicality be damned! For a year at least! Thanks again for the excellent review!
Had a Z4 3.0 , 9 plate, manual , metal top, great car
Wife has a 2.0 Z4, she absolutely loves it. Too right about the ride, I must admit, I love it too. Great fun. 👍🏼
3L with a Manual on Z4 will never get old. Timeless looks and a true proper last of the old-school BMW. Cannot stand the newer BMW's with over the top Tech - this is the perfect blend
Thank you! Nice review!! I own a 3.0 si Coupe and when I bought it I thought the car was involved in an accident because of tramlining. I was so disappointed on my first drive... But as soon as I changed the tires for normal tires everything was fine. Also the steering is a bit lifeless because I think it was BMW first car to have electric steering. But other than that, the car is perfect for a weekend toy. Oh and let me give you an advice. There is a pipe that goes from the engine to the cabin that has two sponges inside. If you remove one of them it will allow more engine sound into de cabin. it just makes it much more visceral to drive. But don't remove both of them because if you do that, it will be so much noise inside that it will be undriveable above 5.000 RPM. You can serch it on youtube: BMW z4 3.0 si sound generator. It's very easy to do.
Carlos Gallego Rodríguez I’ve always liked the look of the coupes
High Peak Autos they are great looking. Sometimes I regreet though. A couple of days ago I drove it for the first time after two severe months of cuarentine here in Spain. It was sunny and I had a huge desire of freedom and open spaces. And god I was thinking that I should have gone for the roadster. But the rest onf the time, I love it.
Carlos Gallego Rodríguez Thats right I guess. In the right conditions it’s nice to have the open air.
Another great video. Great commentary as always, full of info wrapped in good humour. A splendid way to enjoy a good cup of tea and settle down after a long night shift.
This one of particular interest as last autumn I treated myself to the Z4 Coupe as a weekend car that is quite possibly cherished more than the average household pet! I have always been very fond of these Z4s, especially the Coupe which feels something bordering on rare due to the scarcity of them sighted on the roads (I believe they were only produced between 2006-2008). A great engine (the n52 3.0) which sounds delicious and although subjective, I would say a design that is classic coupe, especially when considering the dimensions, seating position etc, gorgeous.
Interestingly reading some of the comments, found myself nodding in agreement. A gentleman mentioned about the piping which goes to the bulkhead, I myself have removed one of the sponge filters (at the bulkhead end) which resulted in a slight increase of engine noise in the cabin (not too much were it becomes tiresome) but enough to hear that gorgeous sound a little more.
I also found the mention of tramlining relevant. Mine does not have the runflats fitted, I have Pirelli P Zeros but I still find that she tramlines. Slight amendments in tyre pressure can improve it a little but I have read that it can be improved further with fitment of Goodyear Eagle F1s.
Sir Nighttrain I love the styling of the coupe plus they’re a little bit more rare
My friend traded his E46 M3 as it was getting a bit old, for a 3.0i Z4.
He only kept it for a few weeks, and traded it again.
He said the ride was bloody terrible on our UK roads.
He now has a 2 series coupe, which is better in almost every way.
Nice concise review. I had a 2.5si from new for 11years....engaging the sport button quickened the throttle response but more importantly tightened the steering which helped negate the tram lining. One effectively sits over the rear axle and behind the fulcrum so the car turns in front of oneself, a great feeling. Looking forward to more of your reviews, tks, Neil (Ireland)
The cup holders are located under the side front A/C vents, Just push the button and they pop out and they are adjustable for the size of your drink.
Thanks but they don’t all come with them. This one doesn’t have any
Great video mate. Been considering a Z4 as a weekend runner!
Z4 is a very nice car and the new one is stunning.
MarkyW Yeah the new one is lovely
Z3 drives better but Z4 is a better all rounder and roof is WAY better, owned both. Love my Z4 to bits. Deleting the clutch delay valve is easy and essential.
I’ve got one of these and I think that though you made the comparison to the mx5 there is a further point to be made on them; these seem really affected by what you just got out of. If you got out of a 3 series or a hatch they tend to feel very ‘sporty’. If you got out of an mx5 or an mr2 (my precious cars) then they can feel big and cumbersome in comparison. They aren’t just one of the smaller convertibles with more power, they are much more refined which is both good and bad. They’re quicker, and the engine feels fantastic, but on a B road it isn’t quite as engaging as the others.
That said, I love it and though I’ve spent a relatively large amount of money in my first 12 months of ownership, none of the costs are scary. About 900 for a huge service to catch it up on everything plus brake discs and pads on the rear, 250 water pump, 200 to move the motor as a preventative, new set of rear tyres on the back. None of these are costs you wouldn’t incur on another car that was at the same stage in its service history as mine was when I bought it.
Added to that, at 115k miles it honestly feels tight as a drum. Nothing rattles, nothing squeaks and the engine is superb.
Additionally, on the owners forums there’s a few cars that have hit 300k miles without any real problems. They’re great, solid cars as long as you’re happy with something that’s slightly more cruiser than all in sports car
Have the later Z4, love that car, had a 2009 car 9 years now, scary how time passes.
Another cracking review, you make some very good points regarding multiple owners, I bought an 6 owner 2007 335i convertible last autumn with a view to running it for remainder of last year, and summer this year then moving it on, values still seem to be around what I paid last year but as we haven't been anywhere this year, and with whats going on seems no point in trying to sell it at the moment. Its hardly done any more miles since last year and has had some love and kept on a trickle charger, I think its 6 previous owners have showed it a bit of love as have I and being a seasonal car it hasn't got crazy mileage either, I'll miss it when its gone!
badshotuk72 Lots of people get too caught up by number of owners. I think it’s largely irrelevant. I’d rather have a nicer high owner car than an average one owner
Same engine in my clubsport. Fantastic engine and fnman regularly see high 30s on a run. Amazing noise, smooth power delivery. Just lovely
themanipulator1 They’re very smooth engines. I love them
@@HighPeakAutos mines is on 169 thousand miles and its been nothing but reliable. Proper old school engine. Very easy for any DIY mechanic with Internet access and the ability to swear
themanipulator1 haha that’s good to know
Hi Matt… Christmas greetings. I love your videos.. very engaging and informative (the BBC could do with recruiting you for Top Gear). I love my Z4 (2003 - 3 Ltr) which I’ve had for 3 yrs. apart from the usual maintenance issues for its age, it’s been a great car. Very reliable and quite economic. All the best for 2023… keep those videos coming. 👍
really enjoyed that thanks
just one caution, I drove for 25 years and never had a flat then (with a BMW on run flats) had 2 a year 3 years in a row
so i was glad of the run flats!
Chest of drawers! 🤣
Cheers, Mat.
Christopher Newman Haha cheers for watching!
I agree with everything you say. In my opinion probably the best value second hand sports car you can buy for under 5k. I bought an '03' 3.0i auto 2 yrs ago for £3800 with 88000 on the clock and it's a cracking car. Unfortunately my wife likes it even more than me so trying to keep her out of it is a nightmare! 😂
I also think that they're just on the cusp of becoming a modern classic so maybe worth hanging on to if you get a good one. Thanks for another entertaining video. 👍
I agree! Thanks for watching :)
How do you feel about the automatic. Is it a good choice over manual?
@@jasa198 to be honest I was never in the market for a manual, I don't think BMW manual 'boxes of that era are the best having previously owned a 2001 330i manual. I've been an auto convert for many years now and can't ever see me changing.
It was stated that the Z3 wasn’t a great car. I owned one and can confirm the statement was correct! Great review.
Thanks! 👍
Great video with straight up points 👌
Love the Z8 too. They couldn't give them away when launched. Could have picked up 2/3 year old ones for buttons but now the price has rocketed.
I would love one one day
@@HighPeakAutos definitely on my lotto win list too.
I had this car's successor, an E89 35i for eight months. Orionsilber (a light champagne gold) over Pure White Design package. It looked and sounded the business and was fully equipped but it needed another 100 horses I reckon. It was too heavy to be sporty and too low and stiff to be a GT.
I mean, it would corner if you bullied it, but it didn't seem to enjoy itself. I couldn't source a manual but the DCT was good except for a very annoying second's lag when I stamped on it. Felt like the car was asleep in those moments. I don't know if it was turbo lag but I don't think so; the car literally wouldn't even begin revving up for a half second or so.
I ended up destroying an 18" wheel and Supersport tyre on a pothole and decided enough was enough. I lost an absolute fortune on it and looking back I should have kept it, despite it costing me almost four grand in tax and insurance a year (southern Italy is completely screwed. You pay a very, very high "Supertax" on top of the already very high normal tax for any car above 250 horsepower - meanwhile our roads literally make Baghdad's look smooth. Where does all that money go? Helicopters for the political elite).
It drank like a camel, which is what I ended up calling it.
The Z4 is worth the pain, bad hip or no bad hip!!....
Watching this way later than when it was uploaded, but i had a Z4 just like this but silver and manual, and they are incredible machines for the money. Even in 2023… greet car, never had an issue with it.
I was looking at the Z4, but went for the SLK 350, because i wanted the security and rigidity of a hard roof, but it can turn into a convertible in seconds, nice review.
Cheers Matt - watch all of your review and been looking forward to the Z4 coming up. bought a 2L 07 SE in Feb with 115k miles on it. Under £3k so cant complain. Great car despite the low power. Drives like new. Really been looked after (bmw service every year). Would recommend getting the drains cleared from the roof.
Great review. Last of the Bangle designed BMWs I believe...
Thanks, I wouldn’t have had this car on my radar but this has wetted my appetite
Another well made video. Personally I prefer the Boxster, but I do think these are a better looking car.
Have been waiting for a Z4 review, so thanks for posting and being honest about the imperfections 👍I've always wanted a Z4 coupe of this era, such a beautiful thing (subjective, I know). Just not sure how it would work with a family in tow 🤔
I have a 2008 coupé. Buy one now before the prices go through the roof
I think the prices of good examples have been on the up for the past 2-3 years, to be honest. How have you found it to own? Has it lived up to expectations?
djgerard82 to be honest it is a fantastic drive. The chassis is so stiff it’s like driving a go cart. Once you swap out the run flats it isn’t as harsh and doesn’t track on the motorway. Only criticism I have is it could do with a little more power from the 3 litre straight six, but then I did buy it after owning a V6 Audi S4 bi turbo
Cheers for the feedback, Glenn. I keep going back to the Evo 5-star review to try and tempt myself! 😄
Been watching your videos for a while as you're based not too far from me so I've always tried to guess the routes you take!!
Your presenting quality has much improved since you started and you review some interesting cars but it would be nice see some more quirky and rarer vehicles. Although yes, they don't sell as easily!
Thanks! I appreciate it. I do try and find odd vehicles but like you say, they dont sell as well so I have to keep one eye on my business
Had a Z3 when I was younger. Terrible handling, nearly killed me on a couple of occasions. Almost went through a hedge as I fish-tailed down a country lane half on the tarmac and half on a steep verge. Z4 has a wider track and is hopefully a bit more predictable. Automatic boxes on sports cars are for eighty-year-old retired dentists looking for young girlfriends aka carers! Having said that, now the weather is getting too miserable for the motorbike I am thinking about a 3.0 Z4 manual. Willing to listen to any offers from potential carers.
Cracking little motor.... my boss had one, only traded it in when he got bored of getting out of it on his hands and knees but he was in his 50s
Haha I can imagine
Thank you for this I found it to be very informative. The only criticism is how quickly you speak, I'm guessing that you are trying to get in more information in a a smaller time frame. I found myself going back several times so maybe if you were more deliberate that could help people. Maybe I am too slow you could say. I am 60 years old and looking to buy a z4 probably a 2003/4 3.0 manual transmission. The z4 is beautiful and affordable, my main worry is the costs at the mechanic shop. Thanks again- your video is very polished and I see a bright TH-cam future for you.
Thank you!
Excellent. Love watching your reviews 👍👍👍
jamieT973 Thanks!
Another great review👍am local to where you test drive enjoy guessing the roads you use😄
Great review. I had a 2007 3.0si se Coupe for nine years as my daily driver, only sold it in November and regret it. Amazingly capable car for what it is and the large boot on the Coupe swallowed lots more than a two seat sports car should. Couldn't find a modern day equivelant, well F-type maybe, but ended up with a RRS. Ridiculous to sublime I know..
Stuart Robertson I liked the coupe, like you say, similar to the F Type. How’s the RRS going?
High Peak Autos Well I couldn't think of two more opposite cars, but not finding a similar replacement went for a complete change last November. Like your RR, I had a certain owner guilt as folk do perceive you differently but the comfort, driving position, (it's nice to see into fields and not only lorry wheel nuts), and all the toys make it a pure pleasure to own and run. It's a 2014 RRS Autobiography 3.0 SDV6. Sublime cruiser, (average speed camera friendly), and it can pick up its heels when asked to so I'm not really missing the performance. I was expecting a harsh Scottish winter and that didn't happen, but not regretting not buying an F-type.
I've never had an F Type but in reality I wouldn't like to live with the hard ride and impractically
High Peak Autos I did have a run in an F-type coupe which felt luxurious coming out of the Z4 on run flats!!!!! The Michelins didn't tram line too badly but still looked like it as you zigzag down the road avoiding potholes. Haha
i own a 2003 Z4 and really like the car. It has its issues like the sticky steering in summer months but I'm ok with that. As long as I can steer it is safe. The nice thing is that the body style held its own for a lot of years. When people ask me what year it is, they are blown away. Mine is in really great condition. I really take care of it and it is a daily driver for me in the summer months. I have the 2.5L and do wish I had the 3.0L. Still it is a fun car to drive.
Cup holders again. I've got the best cupholder it's called a kitchen table. I enjoy a nice coffee there perhaps with the radio on then when I've finished I get in the car.
I've done 50k miles in my 2003 Z4 3.0i, it's just brilliant. Oh and it has cupholders
We have an 07 Z4 3.0i. Beautiful BMW red with a black top convertible 39,000 mi. Getting abs break brake sensors this week. All tested bad. Light kept coming off and going on. Also new transmission oil pan that was leaking. Other than that it's a beautiful car we put red and black seat covers on it and change the look of the whole car. It's a very fun car to drive we love it. I am having problems with the radio. The volume knob doesn't work very good it goes up to full blast and you can't turn it down or sometimes there's no sound at all. So I guess my next step is to probably find a factory replacement or just put a new system in system in but I would like to keep it original
I leased a new 2008 Z4 once and wouldn't recommend the sports package. We would joke you could run over a penny and tell which side was up. Firm ride even for a BMW enthusiast. Was warned about the electronic steering assist and, sure enough, had my steering column replaced the first year. We had a two year lease and my wife and I were ready to return it after the first year just because it was so hard to get in and out of. Loved the easy to use soft top and the driving was fun.
Funnily enough in 20+ years of motoring I have never once used or felt the need to use, a cupholder. But I have always liked the design of this first gen Z4, and now that prices are dirt cheap, enough that you can justify having one as a second car just for summer use...I really, really want one! I would have to have the manual. Auto is fine in a 5-Series but this car is about FUN and involvement - Drop the top, stir those cogs and make that straight 6 howl! 🤩 For £2-3k can you really get anything more fun?
Good point about ditching the runflats btw. I think wheel size can also make a difference. 17"s will probably give a little more compliance than 18"s.
Excellent review - informative, entertaining and amusing. Thanks for brightening up these dull and boring lockdown days. By the way, stunning scenery. Anywhere near Buxton?
Thanks! Its the Derbyshire area :)
An E85 with paddles means it’s an SMG gearbox, quite poor when they work but they often don’t and will cost more than the cars worth to repair. The five speed auto is a proper torque converter gearbox and is reliable. The SMG is the least desirable of all Z4’s.
I’ve got one, and I agree on the engine - go for the 3 litre. Mine is the 2.5, which isn’t quite enough. 190 hp doesn’t really cut these days.
I remember having a 330ci then a couple of years later I had a 325ci and it just wasn't as good but used the same amount of fuel