
One-Year Test Update: 2003 BMW Z4
Probably the quietest soft-top technology out there
By Neil G. Chirico
Photography by Brian Vance, the Manufacturer
Our BMW Z4 made several long trips during this last quarter, so notes about its highway characteristics were abundant. "Probably the quietest soft-top technology out there" and "very quiet even at higher, high-wind speeds" were contrasted by "interstate top-up ride is quiet until urban concrete freeways where road chop is abusive with the low-profile run-flats." Another editor commented on the suspension by saying, "Corners like a cheetah, way better than a Z3," but also wrote, "Suspension has trouble with anything but smooth road and front end loves to wander with pavement seams and grooves." Seat comfort made the logbook with one editor commenting, "Seats are good up to hour two, then it's all about shifting positions every 15 minutes." One area that continues to bring surprising comments is the styling where an editor wrote, "It still gets plenty of looks as I was stopped at all three gas stations by someone who loved the looks." We're thankful that none of those stops involved tickets.
| 2003 BMW Z4 |
| Base price | $40,945 |
| Price as tested | $48,995 |
| Vehicle layout | Front engine, rwd, 2-door, 2-pass |
| Engine | 3.0L I-6, DOHC,4 valves/cyl |
| Hp @ rpm | 225 @ 5900 |
| Torque @ rpm | 214 @ 3500 |
| Transmission | 6-speed sequential manual |
| 0-60 mph, sec | 7.2 |
| EPA mpg | 21 city/29 highway |
| Total mileage | 14,428 |
| Average test mpg | 21.8 |
| Problem areas | SMG shift smoothness |
| Maintenance cost | $0 |
| Normal wear cost | $0 |
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