Used 2008 BMW Z4

The 2008 BMW Z4 is BMW’s most affordable convertible and easily rates as one of the best handling roadsters in any price category. After undergoing a major redesign in 2006, the 2008 model sees little change. Distinctive styling is augmented by a driver-oriented cockpit that is surprisingly roomy for taller folks, a rarity in this class. And when it comes to acceleration, handling and braking, the Z4 certainly holds its own against rivals from Porsche, Nissan and even Pontiac. With two models to choose from, buyers can opt for a fun and affordable BMW roadster with the 3.0i, or a faster but more expensive performer with the 3.0si.

The 2008 BMW Z4 will impress you with its confident handling, playful attitude and competent array of onboard traction and stability programs, the most impressive of which is the standard Dynamic Stability Control. The standard six-speed manual shifts as smoothly as sharp scissors slicing through silk, and BMW claims the 3.0si will accelerate from zero to 60 miles per hour in 5.6 seconds. The standard 17-inch tires and wheels provide excellent traction, but for the ultimate in grip you’ll want the larger 18-inch wheels and tires of the Sport Package. Though you may like the grip these tires provide, be aware that the ride will become considerably firmer and can even be downright rough over broken and uneven pavement.

The black plastic interiors of BMWs past have been banished from the Z4. In its place is a modern instrument panel and console that is handsome, nearly seamless and very user-friendly. Excellent sport seats provide lots of leg, hip and shoulder room, and the standard leatherette seat covering is almost indistinguishable from the optional leather interior. The manual top is easy to operate and lock — when in place, the long side glass helps minimize blind spots.

BMW’s unique geometric styling takes on a shark-like profile and pronounced geometric body sculpting, giving the little roadster its sporty good looks. The Z4’s aggressive front end features a wide front bumper and air intake flanked by two rectangular fog lights. Standard 17-inch wheels can be upgraded to 18-inch wheels when the Sport Package is added. One thing that has not changed is the Z4’s soft top. Although not as secure as a retractable hardtop, the design is lightweight and doesn’t take up precious trunk space when retracted.

Pop-up Navigation
The pop-up navigation screen rises from the center of the instrument panel, which is so much better than having it integrated into the audio and climate controls.

Side Sculpting
Distinctive side sculpting really sets this car apart from everything else on the road.

The 3.0i features power windows, air conditioning, sport seats, six-speed manual transmission, 10-speaker AM/FM stereo with CD, tilt and telescoping steering wheel, Rollover Protection system, run-flat tires, side-impact airbags, rain-sensing wipers, cruise control, manual top with glass rear window and defroster, 17-inch wheels, anti-lock brakes (ABS) and Dynamic Stability Control (DSC). The 3.0si features leather seating, on-board computer, aluminum trim, automatic climate control and BMW’s Premium THX-certified audio system with 10 audiophile-quality speakers and dual subwoofers.

Options for the Z4 include a six-speed Steptronic automatic transmission, sport suspension, power-operated soft top, xenon headlamps with luminous rings, auto-dimming interior and exterior mirrors, removable hardtop, M sport seats, power driver’s seat, GPS navigation and upgraded audio. The Premium Package bundles the power soft top, auto-dimming mirrors, eight-way power seats with driver’s-side memory and four years of BMW Assist into a single option. The Sport Package adds Dynamic Driving Control, sport suspension and 18-inch wheels.

The Z4 3.0i is powered by a 215-horsepower in-line six-cylinder engine that loves to run. A healthy dose of torque provides brisk acceleration and excellent off-the-line starts. Although the 3.0si has the 3.0-liter engine, advanced electronics and a sophisticated induction system allow this version to produce even more power and torque.

3.0-liter in-line 6
215 horsepower @ 6250 rpm
185 lb.-ft. of torque @ 2750
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 18/28 (manual), 19/28 (automatic)

3.0-liter in-line 6
255 horsepower @ 6600 rpm
220 lb.-ft. of torque @ 2750 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 18/28 (manual), 19/28 (automatic)