Hey everyone. This is my first post. Ive been extremely interested in the Z4 for awhile now and going to go test drive one on Monday. If I had the money to get the M I would, but my military pay wont do. So I have to work with what I got. Can you guys tell me the pros and cons of having one of these years Z4? I have read some good and bad reviews on other forums and trying to get more info about them. If you guys could help me out that would be awesome! By the way.....im jealous of all of you that have the M!!!

Thanks

Jason

well, as far as I know, based on magazines and so on, early Z4's electronic steering isn't that great. Not to mention it's harsh ride and never, get the SMG on one of those, they aren't the ones u get from M3s and higher end models.

I would actually recommend you to spend more money and get the Z4 M. I actually test drove one of those and the handling is quick and great (hydralic) and it goes like hell and the interior qualitly is much better than standard Z.

But I did hear the new Z4s, the ones with 255hp magnesium block N52 (someone correct me on that code, im not sure) are great fun to drive. they are just more expensive than competitors.

my 2 cents.

well, as far as I know, based on magazines and so on, early Z4's electronic steering isn't that great.
The steering is the same on all '03-'07 non-M Z4's.
Nothing wrong with it, perhaps more numb/less feedback than some are used to. It feels much better in sport mode.


Not to mention it's harsh ride
Again the ride is exactly the same on all '03-'07 non-M models. If you want a smooth ride it is the wrong car. It is pretty stiff with the 18" wheels, runflats, & sport suspension. But non-runflats make it feel alot better. Again immaterial though since the OP asked about differences...


and never, get the SMG on one of those, they aren't the ones u get from M3s and higher end models.
software updates have improved the SMG since '03...wouldn't worry about it though since it's a rather rare option


I would actually recommend you to spend more money and get the Z4 M. I actually test drove one of those and the handling is quick and great (hydralic) and it goes like hell
umm bit of a price gap, the OP already said it was too much
A '03 2.5i can be had for <$25k. A new Z4M is going to run $55k+. More than double...

and the interior qualitly is much better than standard Z.
umm no...
The interior is almost exactly the same. The sole tangible differences are white illuminated M instrument cluster, fat M wheel, different shift knob, and the optional carbon look leather dash trim. Purely visual. No quality difference. I don't think you have actually driven the cars to which you speak... :devillook

Hey everyone. This is my first post. Ive been extremely interested in the Z4 for awhile now and going to go test drive one on Monday. If I had the money to get the M I would, but my military pay wont do. So I have to work with what I got. Can you guys tell me the pros and cons of having one of these years Z4? I have read some good and bad reviews on other forums and trying to get more info about them. If you guys could help me out that would be awesome! By the way.....im jealous of all of you that have the M!!!

Thanks

Jason
2003
Pro: Cheaper, looks pretty much identical as '04's
Con: Early '03's instrument cluster is tilted a few mm up (not really noticable unless you drive a later model)

2004
Pro: More options available (ex. M Seats), multi-function steering wheel, few more standard options ex. auto headlights & windshield wipers

Mid/late '03's had slightly different color options ie Toledo Blue became available. Also black/red interior became an option (& it later totally replaced gray/red).
The con for '03-'05's is that the '06's were facelifted, hence a discerning Z owner would know yours is slightly more dated. Not a big deal, as it's a very minor facelift.
Con of '03-'04's is the headunit does not support MP3's (this feature was added for MY 2005). The interior trim color was also changed from gray to black in 2005.

Differences are pretty minor. I'd probally go for the better condition car whether it be '03 or '04. But the steering wheel controls are nice and M seats (hard to find/rare option though) are a must if you have any track/auto-x/spirited driving aspirations, if so I'd steer for an '04...

I am very happy with my 03, I did have problems with the top, though. The canvas is thicker on the earlier years. On mine, it wasn't folding properly, so they replaced it with a lighter top under warranty. HOWEVER with my research, I have not found this to be something typical. But if the top struggles to open, that's what it is.

I am very happy with my 03, I did have problems with the top, though. The canvas is thicker on the earlier years. On mine, it wasn't folding properly, so they replaced it with a lighter top under warranty. HOWEVER with my research, I have not found this to be something typical. But if the top struggles to open, that's what it is.

What's the build date on your Z?
Any idea is the it an attribute of early '03's or early Z4's ex. all '03s?

One note re: the steering.

Some early Z4's are afflicted with "sticky" steering.
That is when left outside for extentened time period in high heat the steering becomes 'sticky' & sluggish.
I believe BMW's final solution was/is to replace the entire steering rack.

What's the build date on your Z?
Any idea is the it an attribute of early '03's or early Z4's ex. all '03s?

it's 10/02 so it is early. I'm the only one I've heard of to have the problem, so I doubt it is prevailent along the model line.

No sticky steering here.

Thanks you guys for your help. Ill let you know how the test drive went.

Just finished my test drive on a 2003 Z4 2.5. I freakin loved it. Every other car that i have driven i cant compare to the Z4. This one didnt have much for options, so Im going to keep my eye out for one that has more options and hope for a 3.0. Im definately not going to change my mind on a different car. I would like to thank you guys for helping me out with the info that you have provided me! Once i purchase one i will most definately post up some pics. Thanks for everything!!!!

;) Yep your addicted.... Welcome...... My name is Jack and I'm a z4 driver....

yes -
also agree - go for the 3.0 w/ all the bells & whistles - probably something coming off lease - as mine will be in a few months.
easy to drive - relatively easy trouble free.
enjoy