2005 BMW Z4 3.0i Roadster

Description

Manufactured in Greer, South Carolina (USA), the first generation of the BMW Z4 replaced the Z3 as the third model in the German marque’s Z series. It consisted of the E85 roadster (from 2002) and E86 coupe (from 2006). Penned by Danish BMW-designer Anders Warming (the coupe was designed by Tomasz Sycha) with a drag coefficient of Cd of 0.35, the roadster was initially powered by a 2.5 litre or 3.0 litre all-alloy six-cylinder engine with variable valve timing (double-VANOS) and throttle by wire. The transmission choice was a five of six-speed manual, five-speed automatic or, ultimately a six-speed SMG-II automated manual gearbox. Compared with its Z3 predecessor, the Z4 was larger with a stiffer chassis and, as per the Z3, the front suspension was by Macpherson struts with a multi-link rear suspension instead of the semi-trailing design used by the Z3. The Z4 used lightweight materials to offset the increased weight, such as aluminum suspension components, magnesium roof frame, and run-flat tyres, which removed the need for a spare. Electric speed-sensitive power steering replaced the traditional hydraulic power steering used by the Z3, and Z4 safety technology included electronic stability control, incorporating ABS and traction control. Production of both the E85 and E86 ended in 2008.