Click on image to view the full photo gallery
BMW Z4 E85 3.0i (231 Hp)
Overall Rating
BMW Z4:
The first generation of the BMW Z4 consists of the BMW E85 and BMW E86 sports cars. The E85/E86 generation was produced from 2002 to 2008. The E85/E86 replaced the Z3 and is the third model in the BMW Z Series. Initial models were in the roadster body style, with the coupé body style being added in 2006. In February 2009, the BMW Z4 began production as the successor to the E85/E86.
As was its Z3 predecessor, the E85/E86 was manufactured in Greer, South Carolina. The M model, the Z4 M, is powered by the S54 straight-six engine....(Read more on Wikipedia)
E85 Overview:
BMW Z4 (E85). With 300 Nm of torque, it offers ample pulling power. With a weight of 1365 kg, it falls in the mid‑range. Rear‑wheel drive offers dynamic handling and sporty feedback. Acceleration is excellent (0–100 km/h in 5.9 s). The top speed reaches 244 km/h. A two-seater convertible designed for open-top driving pleasure. Seating for 2 makes it ideal for daily use.
The BMW Z4 E85 generation was not officially tested by Euro NCAP. However, it features standard safety equipment for its era, including multiple airbags and ABS.
3.0i (231 Hp) Verdict:
Performance Verdict
Outstanding performance with strong, linear power delivery and exhilarating acceleration, making it the enthusiast's choice.
Fuel Economy
Respectable fuel economy for its power output, especially when driven conservatively on highways.
Pros and Cons:
Pros:
- • Engaging driving dynamics and precise steering
- • Iconic roadster styling and open-top experience
- • Smooth and powerful inline-six engine options
- • Good build quality and premium interior materials for its era
- • Strong aftermarket support and enthusiast community
Cons:
- • Firm ride quality, especially on rougher roads
- • Limited practicality with only two seats and modest trunk space
- • No official Euro NCAP safety rating
- • Some common M54 engine issues (e.g., VANOS, cooling system)
- • Interior can feel dated compared to modern cars
Specifications:
| General: | |
|---|---|
| Brand: | BMW |
| Model: | Z4 |
| Generation: | E85 |
| Modification (Engine): | 3.0i (231 Hp) |
| Start of production: | 2002 |
| End of production: | 2006 |
| Powertrain Architecture: | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type: | Roadster |
| Seats: | 2 |
| Doors: | 2 |
| Engine: | |
|---|---|
| Power: | 231 Hp @ 5900 rpm. |
| Power per litre: | 77.5 Hp/l |
| Torque: | 300 Nm @ 3500 rpm. |
| Engine Model/Code: | M54B30 |
| Engine displacement: | 2979 |
| Number of cylinders: | 6 |
| Engine configuration: | Inline |
| Number of valves per cylinder: | 4 |
| Fuel injection system: | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration: | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain: | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity: | 6.5 l |
| Coolant: | 8.3 l |
| Engine layout: | Front, Longitudinal |
| Cylinder Bore: | 84 mm mm |
| Piston Stroke: | 89.6 mm mm |
| Compression ratio: | 10.2:1 |
| Performance: | |
|---|---|
| Fuel Type: | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) - urban: | 13.5 l/100 km |
| Fuel consumption (economy) - extra urban: | 6.6 l/100 km |
| Fuel consumption (economy) - combined: | 7.5 l/100 km |
| Acceleration 0 - 100 km/h: | 5.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 - 62 mph: | 5.9 sec |
| Maximum speed: | 244 km/h |
| Weight-to-power ratio: | 5.9 kg/Hp, 169.2 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio: | 4.6 kg/Nm, 219.8 Nm/tonne |
| Acceleration 0 - 60 mph: | 5.6 sec |
| Space: | |
|---|---|
| Kerb Weight: | 1365 |
| Max. weight: | 1590 |
| Max load: | 225 |
| Trunk (boot) space - minimum: | 300 l |
| Fuel tank capacity: | 55 l |
| Size: | |
|---|---|
| Length: | 4091 mm mm |
| Width: | 1781 mm mm |
| Height: | 1299 mm mm |
| Wheelbase: | 2495 mm mm |
| Front track: | 1473 mm |
| Rear (Back) track: | 1523 mm |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter): | 9.8 m |
| Powertrain: | |
|---|---|
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the rear wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 6 |
| Transmission type | Manual |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 225/45 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 8J x 17 |
| Front suspension | Spring Strut |
| Rear suspension | Coil spring |
Does the BMW Z4 live up to the hype? Give us your verdict!