Hello,
My first post. I've just started lookin for a mk 2 Z4. Given up on the Z3 as mostly junk and rusty. So decided to go for a much more modern version. 2009 onwards with the tin top. Leave in Republic of Ireland so one from the North would be most cost effective way as our import tax is a scandal.
Obviously want one with good history.
4 cylinder would be great as would be my daily driver.
Any thoughts.
Welcome..
my AI bot I've developed gives a slightly more expanded view..as you've already seen forum members have divergent views...
I very much loved my E89 20i..
Welcome to the E89 Z4 community! You're making a sensible move from the Z3 to the E89 — it's a fundamentally more modern, better-built car with far fewer of the rust and reliability issues that plague the earlier roadsters.
Key Buying Advice for Your Situation:
Given you're looking at imports from Northern Ireland,
documentation is critical. You'll need complete service history, ideally with BMW stamps, plus evidence of any warranty work or recalls completed. The E89 had several important recalls (particularly for the N20 engine timing chain and various electronic modules) that should be documented (Vol 1, Ch 36 — Recalls & Technical Service Bulletins).
Four-Cylinder Engine Choice:
The N20 2.0-litre turbo (sDrive20i/28i) is indeed excellent for daily driving — smooth, economical, and plenty of torque for real-world use. However, be aware of the
timing chain tensioner issue that affected early N20 engines (roughly 2009-2012). Later engines had revised parts. Look for evidence of timing chain work or confirmation the car has the updated components (Vol 3 covers fault codes and symptoms).
Essential Pre-Purchase Checks:
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Hardtop mechanism: Cycle it several times — listen for unusual noises, check all seals
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Electrical systems: Test all functions including TPWS, parking sensors, audio system
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Service position: Verify all recalls completed and software updates applied
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Suspension: Check for any signs of wear on control arms or bushings
Cross-Border Considerations:
Factor in VRT (Vehicle Registration Tax) costs and the hassle of Irish registration. The book notes that documentation gaps can cause significant delays with Revenue.
For comprehensive buying guidance including specific inspection checklists, pricing expectations, and detailed engine reliability information, the complete walkthrough is in Volume 1, Chapter 3 — The E89 Buying Guide.
The 4-cylinder E89 makes an excellent daily driver — you've chosen well!
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