The BMW Z4 arrived in 2002 to replace the BMW Z3 introduced in 1995.
At first, the Z4 was only available as a roadster, however, in 2006, the German producer launched the coupe version.
The Z4’s body dimensions were larger and its wheelbase was longer and wider. The suspension was also upgraded to be stiffer and the car was equipped with a sport package which firmed up the steering. Some of the Z4’s elements were borrowed from the BMW’s 3 series such as the multilink suspension which was more advanced than the one used for the BMW Z3.
The steering no longer used the hydraulic pump and was replaced by an electric servo motor – the steering was controlled based on suspension movement and speed. Some might say that the steering stopped being that precise due to this change.
The Roadster (also called E85) had either a 5-speed manual, 6-speed manual or a 5-speed automatic transmission. The Coupe released in 2006 had a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed automatic, equipped with shift paddles mounted on the steering column.
The BMW Z4 was offered with gasoline engines only, in 7 different cubic capacities and different power. The M version of the Coupe and the Roadster had the engine used for the M3, a 3.2-liter developing 343 hp. The standard featured a 6-speed manual gearbox.