Should I purchase a Z4... using it as a daily? Thoughts & Feedback

[Evo_57]

Hi Ladies & Gents,

First time post, actually - I'm a complete noob to the Z4 world; have never owned a BMW before actually. Long story short, I'm looking at purchasing a Z4 3.0 'Si' (Sport Petrol Model) in the Coupe Variant - I believe these where introduced from 2006 to 08. From the outset, I'm impressed. Good performance, acceptable fuel economy and nice aesthetics (interior and exterior).

Why am I selling my current car?
A little bit of background, I currently drive a Abarth Punto Evo, it's a 1.4 turbo pushing just over 200BHP. Brembo 4 pots, floating discs, Koni FSD suspension - it's overall well specced. It's got everything I could desire, however... there's only 10 of these limited models (scorpione) in the UK and unfortunately has become my daily; it doesn't deserve to be thrashed down the back lanes to work nor does it like clocking up the mileage! Also, it doesn't handle the poor UK roads well - very bumpy and you feel every pot hole. I'm looking at selling up and purchasing a new daily which will overall have less value (I spend more time worrying about the value and rarity of the Abarth, than I do driving it..) and hopefully be more practical, cheaper to run, better comfort and more convenient as a daily overall.

Z4 Time!
I've seen the Z4's float around the £6000 - £8,000 mark, significantly more on lower mileage examples to. Realistically, I only want to spend £6-7k. I've begun researching their specification and have quickly become obsessed with them and the forum. I'd really appreciate some insight as to where to start, average values, recommended mods, pro's and con's etc.

In essence, I think that the Z4 sounds just as fun and probably... just an impractical! Convince me otherwise...
I'm not ready to buy a boring car with no character just yet..

• Are they practical? - I'm not to phased about the lack of seats, the boot seems adequate and overall I can't see anything I'll be missing out on.

• Are they comfortable? - UK roads are awful, my current commute isn't straightforward, several back lanes, various road surfaces etc

• Average Value? - How much is a good price to pick one up for.

• Pro's / Cons - I've read about the runflats being a tad bumpy, rear springs and water pump requiring attention.

• Modifications - I've read up about a 'sound generator', exhaust would certainly be desirable... CSL wheels look amazing; any other useful/recommended mods ?

That's a start for the most part. It'll just be great to get some feedback from the very owners on this forum!

Thanks in advance, look forward to discussing!

 

[Marlon]

If you're not phased by a two seater then - yes go for it
I have a 3.0si roady as a daily drive, I have a short commute and really enjoy it. Ride can be quite harsh especially if you go for the Si 'sport', which you should because that gives you the M steering wheel and the all important M-Sports seats (a must have). Your 6 - 7k budget will get you one with high miles if you're patient and prepared to travel, but if you want more choice then you will have to up it to 8k plus. Sounds like you've done you're research regarding pros and cons

 

[parabolica]

I bought my 03, 3.0 in May and it's my only car. I get the tube to work so it doesn't see much movement during the week but I'm out in it most Saturday and Sundays. Perfectly practical for me; the boot is very generous given the type of car and even if you have the roof motor relocated to the boot (an essential mod if it hasn't already been done) the motor is only the size of 2 coke cans and can sit in a cubby at the side, leaving plenty of space. Not much storage up front mind; door pockets, center console pockets and that's it, unless you get a model with the cubby holes behind the seats.

Mine has M sport suspension and it can be a little bouncy on uneven roads, but nothing jarring or annoying. No personal experience of run-flats in these as mine has normal tyres. The facelift cars are more desirable especially in the 3.0si guise. My car was in great condition, 60k and had the SMG gearbox which is pretty good to use, and I paid half of your upper budget before Summer, so you should be able to find a good deal as we're coming into winter.

 

[Marlon]

I bought my 03, 3.0 in May and it's my only car. I get the tube to work so it doesn't see much movement during the week but I'm out in it most Saturday and Sundays. Perfectly practical for me; the boot is very generous given the type of car and even if you have the roof motor relocated to the boot (an essential mod if it hasn't already been done) the motor is only the size of 2 coke cans and can sit in a cubby at the side, leaving plenty of space. Not much storage up front mind; door pockets, center console pockets and that's it, unless you get a model with the cubby holes behind the seats.

Mine has M sport suspension and it can be a little bouncy on uneven roads, but nothing jarring or annoying. No personal experience of run-flats in these as mine has normal tyres. The facelift cars are more desirable especially in the 3.0si guise. My car was in great condition, 60k and had the SMG gearbox which is pretty good to use, and I paid half of your upper budget before Summer, so you should be able to find a good deal as we're coming into winter.

The OP is after a Coupe :wink:

 

[philbo909]

• Are they practical? .

Plenty practical enough for a sports car, I've run mine as a daily for the past three years

• Are they comfortable? - UK roads are awful, my current commute isn't straightforward, several back lanes, various road surfaces etc

Msport seats are a must for this, they give a little more support.
With msport suspension and run flats it's almost dangerous- normal tyres and good alignment make it better on bad surfaces

• Average Value? - How much is a good price to pick one up for.

6-12k a good price to pick one up depends on budget, mine is 135000 miles down and runs sweet as a nut (new suspension fitted at 110k, water pump at 100k)but would only be worth about 6 I expect
Pick one up with 90k miles and these costs could be coming soon

• Pro's / Cons - I've read about the runflats being a tad bumpy, rear springs and water pump requiring attention.

The three on your list are about it, oem springs are brittle, run flats are dangerous and water pump gives in around 100k miles

• Modifications - I've read up about a 'sound generator', exhaust would certainly be desirable... CSL wheels look amazing; any other useful/recommended mods ?

Sound generator mod is a free way of making the intake noise louder, but it sounds horrid imo
From stock the exhaust is quiet- modified exhausts are cheap, or straight pipe if it's top quiet
CSL styles wheels look nice, but 19" wheels leave a thin tyre behind and can ruin your ride

There's a wheels thread on here to see members cars and wheels if you want ideas.
Keep an eye on the classifieds on here to get a cherished car.
Where are you based?

 

[Evo_57]

If you're not phased by a two seater then - yes go for it
I have a 3.0si roady as a daily drive, I have a short commute and really enjoy it. Ride can be quite harsh especially if you go for the Si 'sport', which you should because that gives you the M steering wheel and the all important M-Sports seats (a must have). Sounds like you've done you're research regarding pros and cons

Hi Marlon,

Thanks for the prompt response! Much appreciated, to be honest.. I only ever drive myself or a plus one around; the boot space will be sufficient so I thought... why not, eh?

If I'm correct, the 3.0 Si simply represents the 3L Engine, Petrol and Sport Trim? Is this the sport model you're referring to, as the M Sport extra's would be a treat! I've also seen 'SE' model?

What's the going value for a good example one?

How do you find driving it daily? If it's just a bumpy and fuel thirsty as my current; I'm probably making the wrong decision. But, smiles per miles? The key thing for me is to reduce the car value, the scorpione is valued around £12k, so a replacement daily of 6-7k would be a far better financial decision.

 

[Evo_57]

I bought my 03, 3.0 in May and it's my only car. I get the tube to work so it doesn't see much movement during the week but I'm out in it most Saturday and Sundays. Perfectly practical for me; the boot is very generous given the type of car and even if you have the roof motor relocated to the boot (an essential mod if it hasn't already been done) the motor is only the size of 2 coke cans and can sit in a cubby at the side, leaving plenty of space. Not much storage up front mind; door pockets, center console pockets and that's it, unless you get a model with the cubby holes behind the seats.

Mine has M sport suspension and it can be a little bouncy on uneven roads, but nothing jarring or annoying. No personal experience of run-flats in these as mine has normal tyres. The facelift cars are more desirable especially in the 3.0si guise. My car was in great condition, 60k and had the SMG gearbox which is pretty good to use, and I paid half of your upper budget before Summer, so you should be able to find a good deal as we're coming into winter.

Hey, thank you for your response and feedback!

The Coupes do seem far more expensive, sounds like you got a great deal on yours!

I'm personally looking at the Coupe, which also saves me any hassle with the roof/motor but thanks for the heads up. Apologies for the ignorance, what's the facelift model? I've been looking at the 3.0 Si (2006-08).

 

[Evo_57]

There's a wheels thread on here to see members cars and wheels if you want ideas.
Keep an eye on the classifieds on here to get a cherished car.
Where are you based?

I've absolutely fallen in love with various photo's I've seen... the silver/grey colour with the CSL alloys (18 or 19inch I believe). I'll have a look through the wheel thread, thank you.

I'm based in Maidstone, Kent.

Looking to sell up and switch within the next 12 weeks, so I'm willing to keep an eye out and be patient for the right one/price. How much should I expect for a 3.0 Si?

 

[Marlon]

If you're not phased by a two seater then - yes go for it
I have a 3.0si roady as a daily drive, I have a short commute and really enjoy it. Ride can be quite harsh especially if you go for the Si 'sport', which you should because that gives you the M steering wheel and the all important M-Sports seats (a must have). Sounds like you've done you're research regarding pros and cons

Hi Marlon,

Thanks for the prompt response! Much appreciated, to be honest.. I only ever drive myself or a plus one around; the boot space will be sufficient so I thought... why not, eh?

If I'm correct, the 3.0 Si simply represents the 3L Engine, Petrol and Sport Trim? Is this the sport model you're referring to, as the M Sport extra's would be a treat! I've also seen 'SE' model?

What's the going value for a good example one?

How do you find driving it daily? If it's just a bumpy and fuel thirsty as my current; I'm probably making the wrong decision. But, smiles per miles? The key thing for me is to reduce the car value, the scorpione is valued around £12k, so a replacement daily of 6-7k would be a far better financial decision.

I've edited my post prior to your response with prices.
Yes you are correct regarding SE / Sport. Most coupes are 'sport' but just make sure as the M-sports seats are light years better than the standard sports seats on the SE model.
I find mine fine regarding the ride, however it is an SE so doesn't have the 'sport' springs which are lower and slightly harsher.
All Coupes are 'face-lift' with 3.0si 261 bhp N52 engine. Roadsters can be face-lift (2006-08) or pre facelift (prior to 2006)

 

[philbo909]

There's a wheels thread on here to see members cars and wheels if you want ideas.
Keep an eye on the classifieds on here to get a cherished car.
Where are you based?

I've absolutely fallen in love with various photo's I've seen... the silver/grey colour with the CSL alloys (18 or 19inch I believe). I'll have a look through the wheel thread, thank you.

I'm based in Maidstone, Kent.

Looking to sell up and switch within the next 12 weeks, so I'm willing to keep an eye out and be patient for the right one/price. How much should I expect for a 3.0 Si?

In my first comment I individually answered your bullet points
Go for a Sport model, not SE is the bmw rule of thumb
However SE with msport seats is acceptable

 

[Evo_57]

I've edited my post prior to you response with prices.

Ah, I see now! Thank you - I gathered 6k for the Coupe was bit a low; I'm bound to put on around 10-15k miles a year so mileage will rise naturally anyway.. I may be able to stretch to £7,000. Leaves me £5000 or so better off from the sale of my current car.

Yes you are correct regarding SE / Sport. Most coupes are 'sport' but just make sure as the M-sports seats are light years better than the standard sports seats on the SE model.

Gotchya, I've got my heart set on the Coupe 3.0 Si Sport; which as you've mentioned... are all face-lift; hence my previous confusion.
The sport model is definitely one to look for, those extra's sound like a win! I've seen a few M-sport seats in Black, Red and one with black/white too.

I find mine fine regarding the ride, however it is an SE so doesn't have the 'sport' springs which are lower and slightly harsher.

Good to know, cheers.

 

[Evo_57]

In my first comment I individually answered your bullet points

So you did, I literally didn't even see your responses. I've just read through now, much appreciated and informative. Glad to hear they're practical, several appear to run them as daily so they can't be completely unacceptable. As mentioned, M sports is a must, perhaps a decent set of alloys, tyres and tracking.

Glad to hear yours is still going strong, I've been looking around the 80-90k mark but relatively expensive. I guess if there's plenty of life left after 100k, there's no reason to avoid a higher mileage model as long as the essentials are done (water pump, suspension etc).

Mods wise, exhaust would be on the list alongside some aftermarket alloys and tyres. Is 18" the standard size or are they 17"?
Not to mention, a chunk of cash dedicated for it's first service and mechanical overhaul.

Go for a Sport model, not SE is the bmw rule of thumb

Yes sir indeed, I've now got a clear understanding of the different models and I've got my heart set on a Z4 Coupe, 3.0 Si (Sport).

 

[philbo909]

18" standard on sport models- mv2, but 108 as option (these look ace, but you can almost watch them corrode)
17" standard on se- style 103 (daisy wheels)

 

[Evo_57]

18" standard on sport models- mv2, but 108 as option (these look ace, but you can almost watch them corrode)
17" standard on se- style 103 (daisy wheels)

18" CLR wheels on some type of multi-spoke alloys may be on the cards then. But first, I need to buy one! lol

Cheers for info.

 

[JackZ4]

Hi Ladies & Gents,

First time post, actually - I'm a complete noob to the Z4 world; have never owned a BMW before actually. Long story short, I'm looking at purchasing a Z4 3.0 'Si' (Sport Petrol Model) in the Coupe Variant - I believe these where introduced from 2006 to 08. From the outset, I'm impressed. Good performance, acceptable fuel economy and nice aesthetics (interior and exterior).

Why am I selling my current car?
A little bit of background, I currently drive a Abarth Punto Evo, it's a 1.4 turbo pushing just over 200BHP. Brembo 4 pots, floating discs, Koni FSD suspension - it's overall well specced. It's got everything I could desire, however... there's only 10 of these limited models (scorpione) in the UK and unfortunately has become my daily; it doesn't deserve to be thrashed down the back lanes to work nor does it like clocking up the mileage! Also, it doesn't handle the poor UK roads well - very bumpy and you feel every pot hole. I'm looking at selling up and purchasing a new daily which will overall have less value (I spend more time worrying about the value and rarity of the Abarth, than I do driving it..) and hopefully be more practical, cheaper to run, better comfort and more convenient as a daily overall.

Z4 Time!
I've seen the Z4's float around the £6000 - £8,000 mark, significantly more on lower mileage examples to. Realistically, I only want to spend £6-7k. I've begun researching their specification and have quickly become obsessed with them and the forum. I'd really appreciate some insight as to where to start, average values, recommended mods, pro's and con's etc.

In essence, I think that the Z4 sounds just as fun and probably... just an impractical! Convince me otherwise...
I'm not ready to buy a boring car with no character just yet..

• Are they practical? - I'm not to phased about the lack of seats, the boot seems adequate and overall I can't see anything I'll be missing out on.

• Are they comfortable? - UK roads are awful, my current commute isn't straightforward, several back lanes, various road surfaces etc

• Average Value? - How much is a good price to pick one up for.

• Pro's / Cons - I've read about the runflats being a tad bumpy, rear springs and water pump requiring attention.

• Modifications - I've read up about a 'sound generator', exhaust would certainly be desirable... CSL wheels look amazing; any other useful/recommended mods ?

That's a start for the most part. It'll just be great to get some feedback from the very owners on this forum!

Thanks in advance, look forward to discussing!

Hey Evo,

I hope this information helps, but at least it's here for your thoughts.

I have owned a 2006 Coupe Si for the past 4 years and 4 months which I have been using as a daily in all weathers, sun, rain and snow, clocked up 63,000 miles during this time and averaging 19/21mpg in traffic to work and 40mpg+ on motorways, however, this also depends on how heavy your right foot is

I believe the interior styling of the coupes are lovely and the boot has adequate amount of space due to the coupe styling, I have never had an issue with space. The seats are comfortable in my opinion for short journeys, but for longer ones you sometimes tend to get aches in your back, being currently at 24 years old I may regret it in future

If you do decide on a Z4 Coupe, taking the foam out of the sound generator, it's a free and easy mod which will increase the sound within the cabin area, highly recommended, keeps me smiling In addition to this, if you're using the Z4 as a daily, do not use run flats, the sound from the road gets on your nerves after a while.

Hope this helps,
Jack

 

[Evo_57]

Hey Evo,

I hope this information helps, but at least it's here for your thoughts.

Hi Jack, Thank you for your detailed response, I've just had a quick read through - phenomenal stuff. I just wanted to say thank you before I dive in to my responses.

I have owned a 2006 Coupe Si for the past 4 years and 4 months which I have been using as a daily in all weathers, sun, rain and snow, clocked up 63,000 miles during this time and averaging 19/21mpg in traffic to work and 40mpg+ on motorways, however, this also depends on how heavy your right foot is

Wow, you've owned it for a reasonable duration and enough to know it inside out no doubt. I've owned three cars in three years, can't seem to hold on to them for longer than a year. I really just want to find one, stick to it, renew everything and enjoy it! Glad to hear you've driven in all weather, do you mind me asking how much you paid for it and how much you think it's worth now? My work commute is backlanes and A road, 30MPG+ is about the bare minimum I can live with in terms of fuel economy.. my Punto is eating a good 27MPG at the moment so I guess I can learn to live with the fuel cost (maybe, 'says the wallet')

I believe the interior styling of the coupes are lovely and the boot has adequate amount of space due to the coupe styling, I have never had an issue with space. The seats are comfortable in my opinion for short journeys, but for longer ones you sometimes tend to get aches in your back, being currently at 24 years old I may regret it in future

Great input and feedback, thank you! I'd be option for the Si Sport for the M Sport goodies (seats too). Generally I only drive for an hour or so max, currently I've got bucket seats so I'm used to the stiff ride and lack of comfort. I'm currently 20, so this must've been about the same time you decided to get yours! Deja vu?

If you do decide on a Z4 Coupe, i highly recommend taking the foam out of the sound generator, it a free and easy mod which will increase the sound within the cabin area, highly recommended In addition to this, if you're using the vehicle as a daily, do not use run flats, the sound from the road gets on your nerves after a while.

Out of all the models, it seems to be the one I desire. Extra BHP than what I've currently got, offers the M sports extra's and I love the exterior of the coupe (Whispers... I'm not a fan of the convertible soft top to be honest). A good set of 18" alloys would be on the list, partnered up with some top notch rubber - I've heard about those run flats!

I've never owned a coupe, 2 seater or a BMW for that matter... so your input is very helpful for someone who's on the edge to buy one. It's a big commitment selling my current and the whole changeover process.

• Is maintenance expensive?

• Are parts easy to source online?

• I'm suppose to be downgrading from a hothatch with all the sporty upgrades, is it a comfortable and reliable daily?

Finally those photo's are wicked! I'm looking for a grey/silver one if possible.

Cheers again! Look forward to your response..

 

[buzyg]

Welcome to the board. I see much good advice above so will simple wish you happy hunting for your new wheels. Oh and as others have said. The sports seats are well worth searching for.

 

[Evo_57]

Welcome to the board. I see much good advice above so will simple wish you happy hunting for your new wheels. Oh and as others have said. The sports seats are well worth searching for.

Thanks Buzyg, much appreciated! The temptation to make the switch is becoming more and more a reality.. albeit my budget needs to increase a tad. £6k-£7k should be reasonable but the coupe's are quite expensive in comparison! Definitely will search for the 'Sport' model, those seats look comfy!

 

[philbo909]

Hi Ladies & Gents,

First time post, actually - I'm a complete noob to the Z4 world; have never owned a BMW before actually. Long story short, I'm looking at purchasing a Z4 3.0 'Si' (Sport Petrol Model) in the Coupe Variant - I believe these where introduced from 2006 to 08. From the outset, I'm impressed. Good performance, acceptable fuel economy and nice aesthetics (interior and exterior).

Why am I selling my current car?
A little bit of background, I currently drive a Abarth Punto Evo, it's a 1.4 turbo pushing just over 200BHP. Brembo 4 pots, floating discs, Koni FSD suspension - it's overall well specced. It's got everything I could desire, however... there's only 10 of these limited models (scorpione) in the UK and unfortunately has become my daily; it doesn't deserve to be thrashed down the back lanes to work nor does it like clocking up the mileage! Also, it doesn't handle the poor UK roads well - very bumpy and you feel every pot hole. I'm looking at selling up and purchasing a new daily which will overall have less value (I spend more time worrying about the value and rarity of the Abarth, than I do driving it..) and hopefully be more practical, cheaper to run, better comfort and more convenient as a daily overall.

Z4 Time!
I've seen the Z4's float around the £6000 - £8,000 mark, significantly more on lower mileage examples to. Realistically, I only want to spend £6-7k. I've begun researching their specification and have quickly become obsessed with them and the forum. I'd really appreciate some insight as to where to start, average values, recommended mods, pro's and con's etc.

In essence, I think that the Z4 sounds just as fun and probably... just an impractical! Convince me otherwise...
I'm not ready to buy a boring car with no character just yet..

• Are they practical? - I'm not to phased about the lack of seats, the boot seems adequate and overall I can't see anything I'll be missing out on.

• Are they comfortable? - UK roads are awful, my current commute isn't straightforward, several back lanes, various road surfaces etc

• Average Value? - How much is a good price to pick one up for.

• Pro's / Cons - I've read about the runflats being a tad bumpy, rear springs and water pump requiring attention.

• Modifications - I've read up about a 'sound generator', exhaust would certainly be desirable... CSL wheels look amazing; any other useful/recommended mods ?

That's a start for the most part. It'll just be great to get some feedback from the very owners on this forum!

Thanks in advance, look forward to discussing!

Hey Evo,

I hope this information helps, but at least it's here for your thoughts.

I have owned a 2006 Coupe Si for the past 4 years and 4 months which I have been using as a daily in all weathers, sun, rain and snow, clocked up 63,000 miles during this time and averaging 19/21mpg in traffic to work and 40mpg+ on motorways, however, this also depends on how heavy your right foot is

I believe the interior styling of the coupes are lovely and the boot has adequate amount of space due to the coupe styling, I have never had an issue with space. The seats are comfortable in my opinion for short journeys, but for longer ones you sometimes tend to get aches in your back, being currently at 24 years old I may regret it in future

If you do decide on a Z4 Coupe, taking the foam out of the sound generator, it's a free and easy mod which will increase the sound within the cabin area, highly recommended, keeps me smiling In addition to this, if you're using the Z4 as a daily, do not use run flats, the sound from the road gets on your nerves after a while.

Hope this helps,
Jack

19mpg average is very low, I must be a proper granny driver at 34mpg

 

[Jl-c]

Agree with JackZ4, except that I find the M seats OK even after a 4-5hr drive. Mine has M suspension, M seats, M steering wheel. But NOT runflats! On a decent run such as Midlands to Devon we get 38mpg which I think is amazing Ample room in the boot for luggage, even with a wife who packs for all eventualities