Should You Buy a BMW Z4? (Test Drive & Review SDrive23i E89)

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Today, I'm in this 2011 BMW Z4 23i. Let's see what it's like...
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#highpeakautos #BMW #Z4 #BMWZ4 #E89

[@jasonpowell9022]

A friend of mine just purchased one last week. It's a stunning looking car, way better looking than the latest model Z4. It's arguably one the best looking BMW's ever made.

[@valicourt]

Agree! Instant classic

[@deniszhuravlev9772]

For me the 1st gen Z4 Chris Bangle / Anders Warming design generation looks more timeless.I would go for the 3.0 265 hp coupe version, too ;-)

[@BoeingJetJockey]

That’s what I thought too. Best looking BMW ever made. The other one being an 8 Series (E31) but that one was way beyond my reach when she came out due to big engine import tax in my country resulting in the price doubling while I was just started working on my first job. E89 came at just a right time for me. She is not only a thing of a beauty, she’s also affordable too.

[@AryanSingh-vr2wt]

I love how this comment has 89 likes

[@CanTURKeyed]

I own an 2011 35is. but honestly Z8 and 507 are the best looking bmw's

[@jacksonmiked]

6’0 including the quiff. You said you were 5’10 in the Jag XE videos three years ago. Never too late for a late growth spurt :) Then again nice convertibles like the Z4 make everyone feel taller.

[@allycarr5588]

He must be wearing his pink stilettos!!

[@gossling77]

Why are You doing him dirty like that lol

[@pencilme1n]

It’s a 2” quiff

[@jacklane8642]

You have way to much time on your hands or a memory like an elephant

[@Erelio]

Must be related to Ron Desantis - American political joke

[@Kelveron]

Absolutely love the look of this generation of Z4. It's timeless. And there is nothing as smooth as the old BMW NA straight six engines. There were as silky as cream wrapped up in, err, silk (or satin, if you couldn't afford silk)!

[@paulbolton2085]

I drive a 2009 E89 Z4 S Drive 35i with automated manual transmission and N54 twin turbo engine with just over 300 HP. This car is my daily driver and after tolerating run flats for 12 months I took the plunge and changed the tyres to medium range Falken tyres which completely transformed the driving experience so 2 years later am still enjoying the drive on a daily basis. Great in the snow and on days like Matt drove is excellent, with sun glasses on of course.....

[@Largeone1968]

Falkens are hugely underrated. I had them on my Audi TTS but jumped at the chance at some wheels with brand new Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tyres. They were less comfortable and noisier than the Falkens. It was a Quattro so traction was never going to an issue with either but I truly regretted my decision. Last week I fitted 295/35/19 tyres to the rear and 275/35/19 to the front of my BMW Z4 M40i. Falkens were £199, Michelin Pilot Sport 4S £370 but I’m running nearly 500bhp and wasn’t sure how the Falken would cope so bought Michelin.

[@paulbolton2085]

@@Largeone1968 The garage I bought the tyres from stated they fit Falken Azenis tyres to a customers E46 M3 and they have performed very well and a hell of a cost saving also..

[@coops1964]

Great in the snow? Are you kidding?

[@paulbolton2085]

@@coops1964 I have owned several BMW's (1, 3, 5, & 7 series) over the last 20 years and the 130i LE that I drove was excellent except for when it snowed as no weight over the ear wheels but the Z4 performs perfectly in the snow as you as practically sat over the rear wheels so just turn the traction control off and hey presto..

[@brettooops7663]

​@@paulbolton2085 my favourite BMW I have ever owned was my 130i LE! I was loaned the Z4 35is, my god was that car rapid, scared me half to death. Sport+ and the exhaust was the best I'd ever heard on a car, naughty car ❤❤❤❤

[@imaginewebdesign]

Another fantastic review, especially as I bought a BMW Z4 2.3i E89 two weeks ago and I absolutely love it. It’s one of the best cars I’ve ever owned. It’s a fun, engaging car with fabulous good looks. Loving my midlife crisis!

[@zoomspider6065]

One of the best cars I have ever owned. Trouble free, great engine. Avoid big wheels and runflats and ride is great. I have owned two 2.3is over the years and both were totally reliable in every way and pretty economical to run.

[@devenair681]

The BMW six cylinder engine is a gem. It's BMW's best engine. So smooth. Our 528i Touring is still smooth and quiet with 147,000 miles on the clock. 👍🙂

[@Mynansabrick]

Hi Matt i owned a 2.0 turbo auto one of these a while back , had the engine and gearbox mapped and lived the dream for 2 years . car was producing 260 bhp with 400nm and never put a foot wrong . A great bmw for sure

[@Ad3vodE]

Tomorrow i'm goin to get my own z4 with 2.0 turbo engine, how many issues you have with that 2.8i version? is it more common to have engine failure due to 2.0L enigne with turbo?

[@ItsDanLatham]

I spent a few days recently with an E85 and totally get it. What a great thing. Not particularly good to daily for obvious reasons. But the short throw on the gearbox, the straight 6 noise, the low slung ride, its a really great experience. I can only imagine this builds on that.

[@HighPeakAutos]

Thats right! I would definitely have one as a weekend car

[@graemegaw5536]

Same, I have a 2003 2.5 as a weekend toy and they are brilliant fun. Not easy to live with as a daily but feels so analogue and connected compared to more modern cars and so easy to work on

[@jamesnorris3739]

I have just sold a E89 23i M Sport with those 19 inch wheels. My advice would be if you are buying this car take the run flats off and throw them away IMMEDIATELY. They completely ruin the car and make it undrivable and dangerous. It will skip over imperfections in the road and you will end up with cracked alloys in no time. I replaced mine with Uniroyal Rainsport 5s. What a difference. For a roadster you soon realise with the non run flat tyres it is actually set up for quite a compliant ride. I daily drove mine and it was perfectly tolerable. It will also massively improve the grip round bends as it will no longer skip over the service. Instead, you actually feel the tyre morph and adapt to the shape of the road. It will also massively reduce rattles when you have the roof up. In summary with the run flats it's a rock hard punishing ride with poor handling. With non run flats it's a beautifully smooth daily drivable vehicle with lovely handling and grip. I swear it even makes it faster due to the improved traction. I should also add that this car was the most reliable vehicle I have ever owned. I bought mine on 40k and sold it on just under 60k and the only thing that went wrong was a sensor for the electric roof and one of the wheels cracked.

[@stewartleverett-xc2so]

Matt, you really are getting damn good at this! Your humour is of the scale, and your knowledge is the same. When are you going to take the leap and do this stuff for a full time job? Love it 😊

[@HighPeakAutos]

Haha thanks! I’m trying

[@vikinginspace4881]

Someone has a crush ❤️

[@Lee-to2kl]

Get ready for the comments with that joke Matt 😂

[@brabus1048]

Yup, he seems to make a habit of mocking celebrities in many of his videos, but seems to retreat back into his shell when the jokes on him, e.g. aka "pink sweater boy" lol..

[@HighPeakAutos]

I've got no issues with that

[@Lee-to2kl]

@@HighPeakAutos good man 👍

[@rickd3167]

I had a 3.0i, same colour, same interior. The ride on the run flats was shocking and I did get a cracked alloy wheel. Fitted Michelin PS4s which transformed the car and the experience. Great review, brought back many memories!

[@davidperry3531]

Nice review for this BMW and a well looked after one with that 6 cylinder should be a good buy. Interesting that manufacturers have now reverted to a traditional soft top after experimenting with these complicated hard tops. At least they won’t be attacked by someone with a knife as might happen with a soft top.

[@rica8514]

I was looking at the classifieds few days ago. I truly believe that the 35i and 35is is under appreciated and that it’ll become a classic. Powerful, nice size, engaging and the interior will never age giving the fact you can hide the screen.

[@thorstenwestheiderphotogra7722]

Agree in full. Bought a 35i in January this year and having a blast. The N54 has its kinks though, which I address one by one with my ever growing DIY skills.

[@alansorbie4038]

I came very close to buying one of these a few years ago, it was a lovely car to drive. In the end, being a Porsche fanboy I ended up paying more for an older Boxster S but was really impressed by the BMW.

[@nickgilbert6445]

Ditch the run flats and make sure it has the optional adaptive suspension and the ride is vastly improved for everyday use👍🏼

[@OMGWTFLOLSMH]

The ride will be better but the car will still be cramped for taller people.

[@Holdeenio]

@@OMGWTFLOLSMH Funny that, I’d have thought chasing the suspension would increase interior space… 😂👀

[@urdaeatmoths]

@@OMGWTFLOLSMH I'm 6'2 and it's not cramped at all. The seats are extremely adjustable, and whilst the roof is low so is the distance between your seat and the floor, it's no less roomy than say a Ford Fiesta

[@fastasfox]

I agree....I have RF's on my 5 tourer and you would think it had sports suspension. Problem is there isnt enough room for a spare wheel....unless you carry it in the boot.

[@tnlewan6262]

Definitely DONT get adaptative suspension. They're really not reliable, and expensive to change. Regular ones are great if you throw the RF tires.

[@edwinaugustine4885]

Always here when he posts.. Genuine information.

[@HighPeakAutos]

I appreciate that

[@BoeingJetJockey]

If the ride is too harsh for your liking, do as I do. I increased tyre profiles by 5% because the factory tyre was just an inch high, terrible ride, I felt every pebble on the road. By up sizing the tyre profile by just 5% I can still preserved the looks &the run flat property but the ride was probably 20 times smoother. After I opt upping the profile when the factory tyre is due for change now I can use it as a daily driver and very happy with the ride since. My sister also had Z4 and I told her to do the same. Now she’s happy with the ride too. And the slightly bigger tyre won’t interfere with wheel well either.

[@andylove9961]

I've got a manual 2009 3.0 sdrive without the runflats and I wouldn't swap it - gorgeous to look at, ride quality is absolutely fine for all occasions, sensational engine and with the roof down on a fine Day it's guaranteed to bring a smile to your face! They don't make roadsters like this anymore ☹️

[@jimmyk6336]

I have the twin to your e89. I've been taking my e89 to car's and coffee events all over So. Cal and have yet to see another, that in itself makes me like the car even more...

[@paulgreen758]

I have the 2005 2.5, its not fast by modern standards, but as a summer driver with the roof down its a dream I had as a kid, and still love driving it

[@lewishill87]

What a great car for the summer months. Can just imagine driving country roads in that thing with the sun out!

[@SkyScannerBtown]

then hit a pothole.. lol so you better be prepared for the ongoing loud bangs . My gf jumps and screams every time we go over a speed bump slowly.

[@TheMacaulyr]

I had a 2013 z4 for a year, it spent 3 months at the dealership getting micro switches diagnosed and replaced in the roof, then another 2 months getting a new ecu as it had also gone pop.. didn’t have the best luck, but it was a very fun car to drive! One thing I remember is how creaky the hardtop was when going over bumps.. may’ve been remedied with silicone grease but didn’t have it long enough to sort it. Then got a 986 boxster S which has been trouble free and a much more engaging drive! All the issues you’d raised was all the ones I’d overlooked until I’d had it for a while! Very good review!

[@ducatiboy6668]

I've got the same car and although I've had it from new in 2011 I've absolutely no inclination to change it in my opinion it's the perfect blend of power handling looks quality and a touch of practicality. Just don't have 19" wheels especially with RFT I've gone to 18" with PS4s and it's brilliant. A future classic IMHO.

[@ba64ross25]

I have the 3.0L and in sport +mode it is rapid. If I want to cruise around I leave it in normal mode , it's really comfortable , i'm 6ft1" and have no issues with room . I think this car is massively underrated ,it's a nice looking car with the roof up or down and much easier to keep clean than a rag top. I won't be selling mine anytime soon !!

[@randomdaveUK]

Owned one of these many years ago. The sports suspension on most UK roads made the ride truly painful at times. Had to swap cars in the end, but that's our pothole-galore road system, not so much the car, really enjoyed owning it and it never failed me

[@jonathanclarke3769]

I did too. Before children. 53 reg 3.0. Loved the car but knew ever imperfection in every road I traveled.

[@randomdaveUK]

@@jonathanclarke3769 convertible or coupe?

[@jond46687]

I’ve just bought a z4 e89 23i. So far, loving it. It’s got 18” wheels which I think helps the ride a lot as it’s comfy on bumpy roads. I’ll change to non-runflats next tire change. Really like your channel and reviews and influenced me to chose z4 over other options.

[@davidthomson8620]

Thanks for review Matt, I currently drive an E36 328i convertible here in Australia. Much as I love the E36 I have been thinking about upgrading to a newer Z4. Your review has convinced me I should do it. Cheers

[@cornel-lazar]

As owner of a 28i Z4 E89 I’d almost completely agree with your review here. Well put together. It’s a brilliant car and very unique looks.

[@jstos3675]

I am thinking of getting one however I am concerned about the reliability/maintenance cost issues. Have you had any problems with it so far? I am planning on usig it as a daily driver to work, I only drive about 5k miles a year.

[@cornel-lazar]

@@jstos3675 there’s very little to worry about. That said, it pays to invest time in finding the best model and it’s a good start with how previous owners looked after them. I’d stay off any overly modded E89 and inspect under the hood (and trunk!) how it’s been kept. The weak points are water in the trunk - it’s near impossible with the E89 but it would reveal a badly kept car and could lead to issues with the roof mechanic (which is located underneath the trunk). The roof is actually extremely reliable but make sure to test it and hear if it makes any noise - it should be dead quiet. Often stated are “salmon relays” a little fearmongering - goes partially back to the water in the trunk. I’ve never had a single issue and mine’s an 11/2011. I’m taking mine across Europe quite frequently; UK to Germany and France … it’s really a GT made for long journeys.

[@jstos3675]

@@cornel-lazar Thank you, much appreciated. Congratulations on your trip!

[@F1Marky264]

I love the Z4, I had the E89 35is and it flew like a rocket 🚀 I had to sell prior to Covid and I've regretted it ever since. Been desperately trying to find who owns it now as they've only put 500 or so miles per year on it judging by the MOT. It was in Deep Sea Blue with the same alloys as this and lovely Beige & Wood Interior.

[@pullformore]

I own a 2011 S23 2.5 non-MSport. The ride is fine. I bought it at 6 months old with 1200 miles, as a replacement for a 5 year old 987 Boxster that was lost in a garage fire. The BMW was a pragmatic buy, as the insurance payout wasn't going to stretch to a new Boxster, and a secondhand Boxster I thought too much of a risk. The BMW was ex-BMW staff car and was like new, and fully loaded. It's the same colour as the one in the video, complete with the tart's bedroom leather, but mine has the iDrive controller. It's a second car for me, and it has been a terrific car. It isn't as roomy as the Boxster was, but the engine is a peach. It can be quick enough when I need it to be, and I love how I can steer it on the throttle. My biggest gripe with it is the awkward manual seat adjustment mechanisms. I long for electric seats. After 11 years of ownership and 35,000 miles, I keep wondering if I should replace it. I just replaced its garage bedfellow F31 320d Estate with a new G26 i4, which is fantastic. But what should I replace the Z4 with? A new G29? I don't want the over-the-top and completely bonkers twin turbo M40i, and, equally, I don't want a 4 cylinder as found in the lesser models - I love the naturally aspirated, silky smooth and revvy straight 6. So I am going to keep the Z4. It's a nice dilemma to have, I am very fortunate.

[@HighPeakAutos]

Personally, I think I’d keep it

[@pec6118]

Nice video. Some points to add…..S-drive merely means “sport drive” a.k.a. rear wheel drive; on some models the box for your keys in the centre is for the on board computer wheel which also controls the Navigation screen which would occupy the dash cubby. You could have used the sun visors when without your sunglasses.

[@davek7256]

That car, in that colour, with that interior looks stunning against the blue and green of the scenery. Gorgeous 🙌🏻

[@M5CJK]

Great vid on the zed ❤❤❤... I picked up a 2015 28i sdrive 3 years ago and it's been the most smiles per mile of any of the 14 bmw's I've owned.. The Facebook groups and clubs are also AWESOME! 100's of zed devotees to help with any queries Keep the vidz coming... Really enjoy ur channel

[@GB19751]

Thanks for this. I actually bought a 2013 2.0L last year, 4 cylinder twin turbo, 22000 miles(UK) full history. Only because at the time, the specs you suggested were so rare. Not super fast, but nice torque low down in the rev range thanks to the twin turbo. Same colour, same wheels, black leather trim. I love mine. very pleased. Definitely not a daily driver., small fuel tank so not for long range.

[@odin5188]

Sorry to be a nerd but its a single turbo twin scroll. 4 cylinder twin turbo are VERY rare. Can only think of one Subaru Legacy B4. There is not enough displacement for twin turbo on a 4 cylinder, hence why they start with 6 cylinders

[@marvinidler2289]

On trips, the range is 600+ km (350+ mls), even with my sdrive30i. I agree, the 50 liter fuel tank is a disadvantage, but the car can still be used as a daily driver, even for travelling (I do it a lot).

[@gregsmith1070]

E85 model in right colour combo just looks better and drives better especially 3.0 and later model.

[@explorist5]

I am 6’2” and daily’d a 2014 MSport 2.0Si for 3 years. Plenty of room roof up or down and we even managed a driving tour from Scotland to Cornwall no problem. I’d agree that the ride on run-flats is harsh but you do get used to it.

[@Sabrermk42]

I'm also 6'2" and my dad has one of these. I can't drive it without feeling like I'll break an ankle getting in, and then as passenger my knees are pretty much up against the dash. Just another reminder that leg to torso ratio is more important than overall height.

[@explorist5]

@@Sabrermk42 true, I’ve a 33” inside leg. Before purchasing I test drive a couple of SLK and found my head struck the hinge of the folding roof every time I went round a corner. Overall I found the Z4 more accommodating, each to their own.

[@LordLauderdale]

I’m 6”3 and troublesome to get in me out. Got cramps sitting in it and chose a Boxster, which is more roomy.

[@LordLauderdale]

In and out

[@marvinidler2289]

@@Sabrermk42 I think you are right, it depends on the individual. I'm comfortable in my sdrive30i with 6'8".

[@rh9583]

Just picked up a Z4 35is a couple of days ago, the algorithm does work wonders

[@HighPeakAutos]

Ah very nice!

[@broccolihikicks]

I've had one of these for a few years in blue and cream. Agree with the review, especially around design and power, but the hard ride is due to run flats. Get rid and make sure you have breakdown cover. A world of difference. I'm 6' 2" and it's fine size-wise.

[@davidmulcahy4864]

I have an M Sport with 19" rims. Ditched the runflats and its fine. Probably even better with smaller rims and adaptive dampers but just changing the tyres completely transformed mine.

[@summitupmark5615]

Only an inch shorter than you and never found it cramped - even using our 3.0 e89 on a daily basis. Door pockets are big enough for a beanie. And what else do you need every day apart from a wallet, phone and keys? Good review though sir. And what a great part of the world to drive it. I regularly take ours to the peaks. Park up. Hike and go for wild camp. Then a drive home the following morning. Swap those tyres and the ride is absolutely transformed - and easy to live with all year round.

[@jstos3675]

I am thinking of getting one however I am concerned about the reliability/maintenance cost issues. Have you had any problems with it so far? I am planning on usig it as a daily driver to work, I only drive about 5k miles a year.

[@summitupmark5615]

Only our roof has had a couple of failures. The 3.0 engine has been bulletproof and pulls like train. It’s comfortable fun and gets great smiles per gallon. Ours is 14 years old now and still looks amazing.

[@jstos3675]

@@summitupmark5615 thank you!

[@OurPastSecrets]

Honestly you're living the dream, trying out new cars every week in those beautiful northern england hills

[@richardhunt1384]

Mate at work has a previous gen Z4 Coupe Si with the M54 3.0lt straight 6 manual. Dailies it and absolutely loves it. 160k odd on the clock still pulls strong.

[@marial8235]

This is much better looking than the Bangle version which looks misshapen. I have an old Z3 2.8 and it is really a joyful thing to drive. The modern BMWs with the plastic parts and turbos scare me. I’ll keep the Z3.

[@scousecats7357]

I've never liked the look of these Z4's and must say you've not convinced me to buy one. Your Jaguar XJ video convinced me to buy one last year and I will be eternally grateful as I love driving the XJ!

[@andypeckham]

Great review… I have a 23i from 2010, which came with a huge factory options list. I put up with the hard ride for the looks, not believing an expensive tyre swap would make much of a difference. It does! Get the run-flat rubber off for a quality replacement set and buy a tyre picture repair system instead. Best mod I ever made to an already great car

[@PetrSTRansky]

I have it for almost a year and daily driving it. AND I LOVE IT. There is just one downside I learned - do not trash it with roof up especially on rough roads. The roof mechanism may move a bit and it is pain to adjust it back. Consumption is not the greatest, I found out that while using cruise controll I can lower the consumption by 2 liters per 100 km easily in a city. Even if I fether the gas pedal I can not get so low as with cruise controll.

[@NGMonocrom]

Oh Matt, it's not about what we need. It's about what we *want.* Don't even need to put the power down. Just the knowledge that you could, that's enough. Besides, there's just something thrilling about being in a car that tries to end its driver. One that tries to M. you. 🥰

[@k17sher]

I bought my sDrive23i M Sport (manual) brand new in 2010. I traded in after 9 years after putting 20k miles. I loved it.

[@brianwaters8269]

Interesting to see how these Z4s are quite affordable, the ride quality is key for me so glad you pointed that out.

[@Tyt4958]

I accompanied my friend to his car showroom a few years back, he showed my friend around a car, Nick is just under 5ft 9 and he was taller than Matt 😂

[@HighPeakAutos]

That must have been about 20 years ago for that to be the case 😂

[@biggles8187]

T........... I guess the car was a Mini then!! 😉

[@DEEuroworks]

Easily the best looking Z4. Thanks for the video.

[@leefields1401]

Sigh. I really miss mine, 23i auto with the red interior as well. I had to let it go after it cost £3.5K to sort the electric out after an ongoing leak I missed when It was sat around for about 6 months (turned over every few weeks etc) as good old covid hit. Funny facts as an owner, boy racers only try it on when they see your roof is down and one day I was up against a 30i at a set of lights and he only just got nose ahead after we hit 6th gear and the next set of lights. Its also the first car I owned that when I hit the sport button, I could feel the change in the car and the first car I actually used the flappy paddles on. Spot on review though. It was the looks that drew me in and the driving experience sold it. Apart from my aching arse on a bit of a run, of course..

[@Eugmeister147]

Nice vid. I have the 2012 2.0l 4 cylinder turbo model. Those 19in wheels are like glass, and WILL crack if you hit a pothole. I had to swap them out for some 18in wheels and ditch the runflats, and it made it a much better ride 👍🏽

[@malcolmlane-ley2044]

A very fair and balanced review of this car. I bought a new one for my wife in 2011and decided against the M sport for the reasons you mentioned and even though we opted for the 19 inch wheels the ride was quite civilised. As much as my wife loved it she was never happy that she couldn't see where the bonnet ended and we both had to laugh at the number of times we reversed into a space and realised after getting out we should have gone a further meter back; the proportions take some getting used to.

[@markrushton1516]

Don't diss the Peugeot 507. Wasn't that an Africa car? ie loads in Africa where they were plentiful and easy/cheap to fix. Sorry it was the 504. Feel free to mock the 507

[@HighPeakAutos]

Haha yes that was the 504. The 507 is a good looking car but...

[@Josh_0579]

I do actually quite like the new 507, especially the estate version

[@drone_tours]

508

[@smwatson1512]

The new 508 is a fantastic car, get one on the channel! The small steering wheel either works for you or it doesn't but they're great. I had one and ran it flawlessly for a few years. Replaced with a VW which has been an unreliable mess.

[@gileshalliwell3591]

406 or 407 coupes are interesting though and look great! V6 sounds good too..!

[@stephenwall9036]

I have an identical car to the one you reviewed and agree with everything you said. It's a real occasion to drive , and you can't say that about most mainstream cars! It feels better weighted with the roof down and looks great with it up. The exhaust note is superb. I'd have this or a 30i over any of the turbo ones all day long. I'm currently selling mine 😢

[@YippingFox]

I got myself a 23i manual for my first car. While it definitely isn't the quickest car, it does amazing when touring. It's even "economical enough" at 12km/l. (Yes, that is a 12km drive back and forth through a city, not just cruising on a highway!)

[@mrcmaths4613]

Couldn’t believe the start of this review. The sun was actually shining in the Peaks! Good point about the unique dials on the dash.

[@HighPeakAutos]

You’d never believe it today. Miserable again

[@JamesAHall101]

I had one of these for a few months, same engine. Great to drive with the roof down, but with the roof up the rattles and squeaks from the hardtop were unbearable. And the cabin rattled like a bin full of yoghurt pots too. And the road noise on the motorway was awful. Completely agree about the ride quality. It only had about 50k miles and had a great history too, and the others I test drove were also rattly as sin. Mine wasn't even an M Sport - it had 17" alloys. I wish it had been a bit more refined because I would have loved it. I replaced it wish a Scirocco which was objectively better and a proper hoot but not as special, I drive an E63 630i now and far prefer it, though I miss the amazing manual gearbox and the gorgeous looks.

[@mhicks80]

I did 30k a year in mine, loved it. If you're going for one, make sure it's got the idrive and big subs behind each seat, the sound system was brilliant

[@rondar2]

I have one and I drive it daily and I'm quite happy with it. Regardless of the temperature I always open the top if its not raining. The optional wind deflector that you fit between the headrests helps massively with wind buffeting and noise. I think its a must have for these cars. I just wish I had a cruise control.

[@craigroberts3732]

The n52 engine is one of my favourites

[@kamster5775]

I have 2.5 petrol bmw manual with no solid roof.But my one is 97 reg. Just drove easter friday.Lovely feeling.

[@Timaldo8]

Great review Mat of what is a beautiful car. I absolutely love my 2009 E89 23i which is a real joy every time I drop into it.

[@wpbarchitect1800]

I'm sure it's been said again and again already, but it's the run-flats. Flintstones car provides a better ride. I've got mine w M suspension slightly lowered on sport springs to reduce its natural roll tendency riding on Continental ContiSports and it's sharp, direct yet very comfortable. I've got the 3.0 N52 straight 6 version and it's the one IMO...255 HP (plenty) without the endless issues of the N54, N55 turbos.

[@andyrichardson4710]

Another great and witty review! I have an e86 3.0 si coupe and absolutely love it. Bought it two years ago this month and have no plans to part ways with it anytime soon. Yes it is the hardtop version but I tend to favour those as I'm not much of a soft top sort of person although I do like the looks of the e89. I think my car has the larger version of the engine in your test car and yes it sounds glorious and granted the 3 litre has 260 odd hp but it is still more than quick enough to have a load of fun without really breaking speed limits. My car is more of a weekend toy as I have a van for work duties and it's always something to look forward to when it gets taken out now and again. Impractical to a point yes but that's not why you buy a sports car - and 6 cylinders on a BMW? Well that's the only way really. Keep up the great reviews - good work!

[@randomdaveUK]

Really nice cars. Love the coupe version, looked like a classic 10 years ago, now it certainly is.

[@sukhoiromantic1718]

My 6ft late dad had a 2014 Z4 sdrive28 (2.0 turbo 4) manual in M-sport trim used when he moved back to the UK. In Melbourne red which is ironic as thats where he moved from. He really liked it although I think he preferred his NC MX-5 2.0l RC just a bit more. Both were surprisingly practical for garden centre runs and he picked me up from Heathrow in the Z4 and it was big enough roof up to hold my suitcase.

[@TheGreatestPlayerInTheWorld]

Not sure about buying one but it looks really good ❤

[@louier9033]

I've recently treated myself to one of these, a 2011 23i M Sport in black with a cream leather interior, it's by far the best car I've ever owned, the 19" wheels with run flat tyres made the ride really hard though and I've downsized them to 17" wheels with standard tyres from the non-M Sport cars, which I had refinished in grey, it sorted it out nicely even though it doesn't look quite so good. I can't recommend these cars enough and I'm surprised as to why there aren't more of them on the roads.

[@lukaa2173]

Its my favorite bmw, because its sporty, convertible for good weathers, luxurious looking, sporty looking, fun to drive, it just has everything a driver wants

[@technosnake]

You need to drive the 35is which is definitely a future classic with the N54 engine and DCT gearbox. I own one among other, more powerful BMWs, and it’s my favorite car in my fleet

[@isakfranzen6277]

Bought a 35i a month ago with the double clutch gearbox and it is a great car. The twin turbo engine is amazing and the interior is also very nice. Not as sporty as my manual Boxster 986 the Z4 e89 is more of a GT-car not a spotscar compared to the Boxster.

[@danecowan678]

This is so much better a review than any press motoring journalist could do. They’d spend half the time faffing around with obnoxiously bright coloured suit cases just to have a winge about the boot space and complain that the roof takes 1 second longer to open than an SLK or something. Anyway, great video that. Looked like a lot of fun 😊

[@HighPeakAutos]

Haha thanks! Good point - I try and give you the information I would want to know, thats it.

[@danecowan678]

@@HighPeakAutos It’s greatly appreciated and hugely refreshing

[@kevinbuttery3757]

Mine is a 35i (Manual, 19s and slightly tuned). Great car - far more capable than many people realise and very quick. It does have a few weaknesses; the dreaded BMW Clutch Delay Valve (now removed) a rattly roof and having to manually release the parking brake...but that's about it. Mine is a SE rather than MSport, sitting on 19s I have no complaints about the ride quality.

[@danielporteous7682]

I bought one of these on a whim last year on a very sunny day. It was glorious, so good in fact that I forgot I was 6 foot, that it had no storage and that it was bone-shakingly firm. Still glad I had it for the year I did though, even though I spend the whole time walking with a limp because of my dead leg from changing gear.

[@lancefron1]

Been waiting for you to review this Z4 for ages. My dream drive. It's gorgeous.

[@HighPeakAutos]

Hope you enjoy it!

[@Z4Man199]

I've bottled it twice buying the same Z4 in your review. It would be my Sunday car and at the last minute I pulled out of the purchase. Damn you for uploading this as I'm now looking again and trying to justify buying one

[@gzk6nk]

I'll stick with my ND MX5 I think. I'm pretty sure it'll out handle that BM. And if you get a foldy hard top one as my previous NC was, it will not intrude on boot space. Mazda make it fit the same space as the soft top car. At the cost of a bit of body roll in extreme cornering, it looks like the '5 rides better, too.

[@neilmick6778]

Shame it takes a week to do 0-60.

[@robbie1403]

I came out of owning an NC MX5 to the Z4 and whilst I agree the Mazda is great fun, light, nimble and very well balanced, I don’t think the two cars are comparable. Unlike it’s predecessor the E85, the E89 is more of a boulevard cruiser than a hard edged sports car. I did a lot of continental holidays and the Mazda was way too small and cramped for anything but a long weekend. The BMW is perfect for this. I had the folding hardtop NC and although unlike the Z4 it didn’t compromise the boot space when the roof was down, the boot was still tiny and no match for the Z4. Also the engineering and build quality of the BMW makes the Mazda seem like a bargain basement alternative - which essentially it is, but is none the worse for that.

[@gzk6nk]

@@neilmick6778 You don't say whether you mean the MX5 or the BMW. It's 5.7 seconds for the MX5 ND Sport like mine. Plenty quick enough.

[@marvinidler2289]

The ND is a very fine car. I would own one if I was short. But I'm not so there is no room for my legs. Regarding leg room, it is the worst car for not-short people I tried (I owned three MX-5 NA which were feasible to drive with a smaller steering wheel). The Z4 E89 is comfortable for long trips even if you are tall.

[@gzk6nk]

@@marvinidler2289 I sat in a roof-down Boxster and the windscreen top frame was at my eye level.

[@TheN1ghtbr1nger]

I have that exact car in white and its my daily driver come rain or shine. Sticks to the road like glue with 19 inch wheels and didnt make me twitch even when we had all that snow last month and it is just an absolute pleasure to drive. Bin the runflat garbage immediately however if you buy one!

[@paultasker7788]

That 6 cylinder 2.5 engine is a gem. I think it's better for it not to be too fast as you can enjoy the noise for longer before you break the speed limit. Shame the ride is poor. Wonder if it would be better on smaller wheels. Or tyres that are not run flats

[@glynnpearson1757]

I had the pleasure of a loan car from BMW for a week and they dropped me of a brand new Z4 M40i. Holy 💩 what a handful that was in the greasy November weather. Toyed with one of the older Z4’s for the wife but she wanted something with a rear seat so we plumped for a Mini Cooper S convertible only for the marginal practicality.

[@drummerboy1066]

Have one as my daily drive. Rain wind or shine. Love it!

[@jamesedwards3076]

Recently had an E85. Bullet proof 2.5l straight 6, such a fun drive. Used to get >35mpg on a run too!

[@patrickbateman9197]

Your engine didn't suffer from all the common problems? You were lucky.

[@natemac8473]

@@patrickbateman9197 What common problems?

[@patrickbateman9197]

@@natemac8473 Well known for common problems in that series.

[@natemac8473]

@@patrickbateman9197 Well if it's so well known why don't you enlighten me? From what I can tell that series actually has a pretty low amount of problems compared to a lot of BMWs.

[@ogent]

You sir are quite witty 😅 I love cars of course but the humor has kept be returning everyday anticipating a new upload. I’m hooked.

[@HighPeakAutos]

I appreciate that!

[@keithward233]

Everything you say about engine and ride I agree with having had an E46 320msport coupe since 16 . It looks and sounds glorious but it's firm and as a daily I am passed those days . Weekend with the wife isn't a thing either as she says it's too low . So under 1800 miles since September 2021 tells you what's going to happen. Great video again , cheers

[@tradingcardboss]

Always liked this car 🚗 Another great Review 🎉

[@graham6771]

Silver with red interior was always the best combo on small sporty BMWs

[@scorpioncubain]

DKG ,no manual,no ZF . DKG man !

[@tbip2001]

I had the e85 as a daily Driver ….loved that car. Never failed. I frequently come back to looking at e89 listings but its just not practiical anymore

[@wellybobs4403]

Good choice Matt. Mine is the 30i 2009 I am keeping it forever. the sound of the engine is addictive.. I sometimes rev her up just to hear it.

[@HighPeakAutos]

Yeah it does. Nice

[@EmmettLBrown2015]

I have a 2011 BMW Z4 Sdrive 30i that I have had for over a year and a half now and I absolutely love it, it drives amazing and is so much fun. It's a very sexy gorgeous looking car

[@tl56kmair]

I have the 35is and I love mine. I use it as a daily I the summer...in the winter is more of a weekly. And my wife and I take it on three day trips quite often. They make custom luggage that actually holds quite a lot.

[@andrew.maycock1981]

Love it... - Chav-Mobile (not herd that in years) - Rather have a Colonoscopy than drive over cats eyes - driving to Timpsons in Tewkesbury on a Tuesday 😂😂😂😂

[@HighPeakAutos]

Can’t resist a bit of alliteration

[@andrew.maycock1981]

@@HighPeakAutos love the videos btw... I can't recall how I started watching them but I can't wait to see what videos u do every week... Be great if you could do more than a couple a week... But you do have a business to run hahaha

[@iantownsend500]

You don’t need a shed load of performance with a convertible, so an NA straight 6 BMW sounds like heaven

[@joebloggs4191]

I have the 30i auto and although not my only car I do use it daily and find it has enough space for storage, it is more roomy inside than the Porsche Boxster and a big step up from the previous gen E85. The ride can be easily sorted by going for the SE trim with 18” wheels and normal tyres which is what mine has and the ride is totally fine, 18” rims look perfectly fine on the car too 17” rims which some come with look too small, also if you add the Eibach / Bilstein B12 kit I’ve heard improves the handling completely without destroying the ride. If you are looking at the 23i then you are probably better off with the 30i same running costs but way more power and torque and better resale or future values due to the rarity of the model.

[@adamkightley]

My friend had a Z4 23i in I think SE trim in manual configuration which I found for him on marketplace it was at the time only 6k which was a bargain. Afterwards he sold it and bought a Z4 35is in which we added an intercooler and had a MHD and XHP tune. When I drove it it scared the living daylights out of me, I really like these Z4’s even though it was cobbled together by bits of other BMW’s!

[@orchidopus]

I had the very same car as a daily driver for a few years and everything you said is exactly how I would sum it up.

[@ProjectH4x]

I own one with that same engine spec and do agree with everything you said. On point. If I had to add something to your review, it would be that in the rain, the hard top doesn't insulate noise that much better than soft tops. You hear quite a bit of "plastic like" noise from drops hitting the roof. But it's indeed a head turner, especially with the roof on. (I feel cabrios look a bit the same with roof off, personal opinion, but the hard top on this is very well done) Overall I'm very happy with it as a daily driver, despite agreeing with what you said about the ride. It does put a smile on your face, without needing to go very fast, because of that lovely (civilized) noise.

[@tobycolin6271]

I’ve got a 2012 6 cylinder dark grey, black leather and m sport. Took me ages to find the right one. It’s my weekend toy and won’t ever be for sale. Hood down, heated seats on heater blowing, it’s just right off to good wood and lemans. Heater matrix and roof sensors are things to look out for.