Having second thoughts
- Thread starter Cornwall1888
- Start date
paulgs1000 said:Choose carefully - obviously a well cared for example where much of the possible costs are covered - tyres, brakes, suspension bushes, servicing just done (especially Inspection 2) will keep costs down - tyres are expensive if 18 in. staggered set (use non-runflats for a better ride and cheaper). There are surprisingly long servicing intervals. Driven steadily and as a commuter, the 3.0 will return 30mpg but use the throttle and it drops quickly. If you use the revs you pay for the performance (6 cylinders remember). Mine is a car used for enjoyment and seldom gets over 25mpg and often low 20's - but then like others, I'm an ex biker and it's driven like a motorbike. I would be searching for a 3.0si (post 2006 called 'facelifts' as there are a few subtle lights and body changes), available at you price point. The SE version has slightly higher suspension and a slightly less harsh ride. The Sport version comes with ///M sport steering wheel, ///M sports seats, ///M sport wheels and ///M sport suspension. Options can make a difference to the ownership experience - heated seats are worth having, park assist is reassuring, everyone seems to go for satnav though the system is criticised. Up-rated sound system is well received as well.You may have to compromise on these as the 3.0si is sought after and there's not as many about.
The Z4 has an amazing balance of performance and running cost - it really is surprising how they perform so well and just keep coming back for more on so little servicing. Like any other car, it can be expensive to put right if things do go wrong but by using a good independent you can keep costs down. Roof motors can be replaced for around £500 now.
Regarding RWD - it will feel different to what you're used to and can catch you out if you are enthusiastic and over confident but the Zed does have systems that will cut in and help (within reason) when/if you get to that point. Basically, RWD will likely result in oversteer and FWD understeer if you overdo things. Manufacturers think understeer is safer (also FWD is cheaper to produce as well as saves space). Like anything else it's a skill you will learn and improve over time - do a bit of research to find out more about this - it can be part of the ownership experience - the different feel of RWD cars are what attract their owner drivers - there's lots to learn if you're interested or you can just enjoy your Zed and not reach these limits. Just like any other car, you will quickly get used to the seating and vision in the Zed - watch out for kerbs, out of sight of the nose - it's easy to ground the front and kerb the wheels. As already mentioned they have terrific turning circles. One tip is to raise the seat until you are comfortable managing the Zed and sit closer to the steering wheel. Don't be intimidated by the performance - it can get you into trouble very quickly if you try and use all the performance all the time but with the sports button off there is a long throw to the throttle pedal and the 3.0 can be driven easily about town. I drive with the sports button always on as I prefer the faster action of the throttle but you have that option and it may help - do not be afraid to use the sport button though as it changes the nature of the Zed in a very positive way. The 3.0si has good effective brakes for the road unless you are really pushing them to track levels. The electric steering may feel a little odd at first - it can follow cambers and imperfections on the road and always feels lively - most of us use non runflats to help improve this and slightly soften the harsh ride.
You can get lots in the boot and with the roof down plenty in the passenger seat. Storage in the cabin can be a bit awkward but quite a bit can be stowed in the cubbyhole between the seats (and behind the seats in some versions) and the glove box. The door storage is very slim and limited. Everyone hopes for cup holders - they are at the ends of the dash if they are fitted and come out when pushed in - they do work but take care as they are not as well built as the rest of the Zed.
The Zed does look a far more expensive sports car than it costs now - it's always an event getting in the Zed and going out for a drive. I find it a very capable sports car that offers great performance but remains reliable and affordable.
Good luck with the search for your replacement
Wow ..
Great Post.
Should be a "Sticky"
Covers just about everything except a "Stubby"
Well Done
Bumpy
I'm a young single guy so I don't need a practical car but the z4 struck me as really impractical - The other half and I run the Z4 as our main "practical" car. You can actually fit a fair bit in to the boot (although I do have the coupe).
Things that concern me:
It's 11 years old stuff will go wrong and it will be expensive - It's not that expensive, but yes things will wear out. So far I'm on: New AC System (condenser and compressor), new discs and pads all round, new front bushes, new starter motor. I'm expecting a new Guibo soon and maybe actually the wishbones.
Will it really do over 25mpg mostly urban driving? - Yes. Easily. I average around 31 in mixed driving on most tanks. On the 3.0Si you will see up to 41mpg on a steady run.
Cramped cabin, not much visibility - Not sure about the roadster but the coupe does have a decent blind spot on the rear corner. It's not too bad. An Elise is worse. A Honda Jazz has a weird blind spot on the front corners. You get used to it.
First rwd car, in fact I've never even driven a rwd car - It's more fun, don't be silly and turn the TC off and give it a a boot full of throttle. I drove my first TVR at 21, in the rain, after I picked it up. Since then I have only had RWD cars. I have spun once to date on snow in my Elise (perhaps in hind site I should have borrowed the parent's car that day). I was doing about 15mph and just pirouetted a full 360 and carried on going. The Z4 has loads of mechanical grip and TC, you have to be fairly hamfisted to get the TC to light up a lot.
Only car so will need to be used everyday throughout the Scottish winter, I will definitely get winter tyres, but still - RWD and the snow. Maybe chains for Scotland?
Driving position, basically sitting at the back with a huge bonnet in front of you, how long does that take to get used to? - A little while.
Smallish boot, I play golf, can I really fit clubs and a trolley in it? - Can't help, don't play golf.
Things that concern me:
It's 11 years old stuff will go wrong and it will be expensive - It's not that expensive, but yes things will wear out. So far I'm on: New AC System (condenser and compressor), new discs and pads all round, new front bushes, new starter motor. I'm expecting a new Guibo soon and maybe actually the wishbones.
Will it really do over 25mpg mostly urban driving? - Yes. Easily. I average around 31 in mixed driving on most tanks. On the 3.0Si you will see up to 41mpg on a steady run.
Cramped cabin, not much visibility - Not sure about the roadster but the coupe does have a decent blind spot on the rear corner. It's not too bad. An Elise is worse. A Honda Jazz has a weird blind spot on the front corners. You get used to it.
First rwd car, in fact I've never even driven a rwd car - It's more fun, don't be silly and turn the TC off and give it a a boot full of throttle. I drove my first TVR at 21, in the rain, after I picked it up. Since then I have only had RWD cars. I have spun once to date on snow in my Elise (perhaps in hind site I should have borrowed the parent's car that day). I was doing about 15mph and just pirouetted a full 360 and carried on going. The Z4 has loads of mechanical grip and TC, you have to be fairly hamfisted to get the TC to light up a lot.
Only car so will need to be used everyday throughout the Scottish winter, I will definitely get winter tyres, but still - RWD and the snow. Maybe chains for Scotland?
Driving position, basically sitting at the back with a huge bonnet in front of you, how long does that take to get used to? - A little while.
Smallish boot, I play golf, can I really fit clubs and a trolley in it? - Can't help, don't play golf.
Bumpy said:paulgs1000 said:Choose carefully . . . . .
Good luck with the search for your replacement
Wow ..
Great Post.
Should be a "Sticky"
Covers just about everything except a "Stubby"
Well Done
Bumpy
Well thanks Bumpy - I've had a lot of help and support from this Forum so I like to add my bit where I can
Cornwall1888
Member
Thanks guys you have given me the reassurance I was looking for.
I just need to wait for the right car and deal to come up and preferably sell my current car first as I'll get more than trade in.
I'm having to look far and wide it's not like buying a focus where there will likely be 50 for sale in and around your city, it'll be worth it though it's only a few days travelling.
I've seen a few around which come with 2 year warranties, I know wear and tear stuff won't be covered but it should take car of steering columns etc.
Patience is key
I just need to wait for the right car and deal to come up and preferably sell my current car first as I'll get more than trade in.
I'm having to look far and wide it's not like buying a focus where there will likely be 50 for sale in and around your city, it'll be worth it though it's only a few days travelling.
I've seen a few around which come with 2 year warranties, I know wear and tear stuff won't be covered but it should take car of steering columns etc.
Patience is key
Usa
In 4 years of ownership if my 3.0i E85 I never got better than 24mpg on my daily commute, where others have achieved a lot better. Saying that I only get 17mpg out of my E89.
At 8k you should really be looking at the facelift model with all the toys.
Good luck with the hunt though.
At 8k you should really be looking at the facelift model with all the toys.
Good luck with the hunt though.
jimbo1958 said:
Good man Jim - that's the way to use a Zed
:lol:Cornwall1888 said:
This will change almost immediately. Could be a bigger problem that the other stuff you talk about.
Seriously though... I was in a similar position about three years ago and have absolutely no regrets. I would budget to be able to replace the runflat tires straightaway and look after the roof motor; by far the most common "expensive" (£500+) problem with these cars.
Cornwall1888
Member
After some deliberating I've taken the plunge, low milage z4 3.0i 2004 purchased along with 4 new normal e.g non run flat tyres.
During the test drive I soon got used to the long bonnet and cosy cabin, it was quieter and the ride was a lot softer than expected. It felt smooth even with run flats my cooper s was awful with run flats.
I never had the opportunity to open it up during the test drive but I could feel the power/torque even below 4000 rpm.
Pick it up Saturday. Next on the shopping list is an aux input.
During the test drive I soon got used to the long bonnet and cosy cabin, it was quieter and the ride was a lot softer than expected. It felt smooth even with run flats my cooper s was awful with run flats.
I never had the opportunity to open it up during the test drive but I could feel the power/torque even below 4000 rpm.
Pick it up Saturday. Next on the shopping list is an aux input.
Excellent news, we will be expecting photos on Saturday too :camera:
I got a 56 plate coupe for 8.1k high miles but impeccable history and tbh I would prefer a high mile well looked after beast than a low mile not looked after monster.
In my mind if a motor has done 100k with no major work them it's a good one.
Time may prove me wrong but hey who cares I bagged an "Individual" for pennies!
Absolutely love "Stella" she is my baby.
In my mind if a motor has done 100k with no major work them it's a good one.
Time may prove me wrong but hey who cares I bagged an "Individual" for pennies!
Absolutely love "Stella" she is my baby.
richardjgreen
Active member
go for it you know it makes sense
Cornwall1888
Member
Little update, loving the car so glad I went for the 3.0 great power, torque, sound (foam removed), throttle response.
Sports button + 4500rpm + slam right foot down = warp speed
I love my wheels so glad I found one with these anyone know what they're called?
I manage to get my golf bag AND trolley in the boot.
Found the cubbys behind the seats by accident today had no clue they were there, no huge but come in handy.
No cons I didn't expect, only get 25mpg because I'm always in the city, need to used the force when reversing with the roof up.
Continually amused by the hairdresser comments from friends and colleagues who drive 1.2 ford fiesta and Renault clio, like my cooper s before it's an underappreciated drivers car.
If my pics successfully upload I will be so proud/surprised never done it before.
Sports button + 4500rpm + slam right foot down = warp speed
I love my wheels so glad I found one with these anyone know what they're called?
I manage to get my golf bag AND trolley in the boot.
Found the cubbys behind the seats by accident today had no clue they were there, no huge but come in handy.
No cons I didn't expect, only get 25mpg because I'm always in the city, need to used the force when reversing with the roof up.
Continually amused by the hairdresser comments from friends and colleagues who drive 1.2 ford fiesta and Renault clio, like my cooper s before it's an underappreciated drivers car.
If my pics successfully upload I will be so proud/surprised never done it before.
