BMW Z4 E89

Z4 in brief

The Z4 has been produced in three generations: E85 (2002–2008, with the coupé version E86), E89 (2009–2016) and G29 (from 2018). All are two-seaters, with a long bonnet, engine up front and rear-wheel drive.

The Z4 is praised for its precise handling, powerful engines and being one of the easiest ways to own a genuine BMW convertible. However, it's a second, 'weekend' car: there's room for just two, the boot is small, and in the Lithuanian climate it often sits in the garage for half the year.

E89 and G29 — what's the difference

The E89 generation (2009–2016) has an electrically retractable metal roof, so the closed car is as quiet and secure as a coupé, and opening the roof turns it into a convertible. The downside is that the retracted roof takes up a large portion of the boot, and the roof mechanism is an additional source of potential issues.

The G29 generation (from 2018) was developed alongside the Toyota Supra and is manufactured in Austria. It returned to a fabric roof: it's lighter, opens quickly and doesn't take up boot space. The G29 is wider, more modern, with a digital instrument cluster and more driver-assistance systems, and the 2022 refreshed model got a new front design.

The older E85 (2002–2008) is the most affordable Z4, beloved for its simple construction and six-cylinder engines. Particularly prized is the rare Z4 M with a 3.2 l, around 340 hp engine.

Engines and gearboxes

Early E89 models came with naturally aspirated six-cylinder engines in the sDrive23i and sDrive30i, which were replaced in 2011 by the 2.0 l turbocharged sDrive20i and sDrive28i, with the sDrive18i (around 156–245 hp) added later. The most powerful are the sDrive35i and sDrive35is with a 3.0 l twin-turbo engine (around 306–340 hp), usually paired with a 7-speed dual-clutch gearbox.

The G29 initially offered the sDrive20i (around 197 hp) and sDrive30i (around 258 hp) with a 2.0 l turbo engine, and the M40i with a 3.0 l six-cylinder engine (around 340 hp). These are typically mated to an 8-speed automatic gearbox, with a manual option being rare in the G29.

All Z4 models are rear-wheel drive. It's not advisable to drive them in winter with summer tyres, so it's worth checking if the car comes with a suitable set of winter wheels.

What to check when buying a used Z4

Test the roof a few times: it should open and close smoothly, without any grinding noises or error messages. On the E89, check for any moisture in the boot and cabin — water leaks and roof hydraulic issues can be expensive to fix.

The E89 generation with 2.0-litre turbo engines (sDrive18i, 20i, 28i) is known for issues with the timing chain and its tensioners — a cold engine shouldn't rattle after starting. The sDrive35i and 35is engines are prone to high-pressure fuel pump, injector, and turbo failures, so a solid service history is crucial.

Convertibles are often driven aggressively, so check the tyre wear, brakes, and suspension components. Verify the mileage through service records, and inspect the body for repainted parts and uneven gaps.

Trim levels

Names and equipment vary by market and year; we list the most common trims and versions found in Europe.

Comparison of G29 generation trims

For most buyers, the best choice is the M Sport with the sDrive30i engine: it's quick enough and cheaper to run than the M40i. The M40i is worth considering only if the sound and power of a six-cylinder engine are paramount.

Frequently asked questions