History

The Z4 is BMW’s two-seat coupe and roadster that evolved from the Z3. The Z4 Roadster replaced the Z3 for 2003 and the Z4 Coupe joined the lineup for 2006. The Z3 was the first of a new wave of German roadsters that was introduced in early 1996. The Z3 was the first BMW roadster to be sold in America since 1959, when the legendary 507 was discontinued. The M Roadster joined the Z3 Roadster for 1998 and the M Coupe debuted as a 1999 model, followed by the Z3 Coupe. While the Z3 featured retro styling that was reminiscent of classic roadsters, the Z4 features modern flame-surface styling.

The Z4 is a sporty two-seater available as a coupe or convertible. Our tested convertible lacked agility. The cabin is roomy, and the 3.0-liter six-cylinder is strong. The power-operated top is simple to use. The M-badged versions offer 330 horsepower.

The Z4 was designed by Chris Bangle and began the controversy over his "flame surfacing" design and aggressive styling choices, which can also be seen on most modern BMW cars, most noticeably the 7 Series and 5 Series. As of 2007, the entire BMW car line, including the BMW 3 Series and X5 SAV, had incorporated Chris Bangle's design theme.

The Z4 features a strut type front suspension like its predecessor, the Z3. The rear suspension, however is considerably different from that of the Z3, which was based on that of the E30 BMW 3 Series. Instead of a semi-trailing arm suspension, the Z4 uses a more advanced multi-link suspension.