The BMW Z4 is so cheap because BMW and Toyota had a cost-sharing agreement. At the time of development, Toyota was looking for an inline six cylinder engine that they needed for their new Supra. BMW had this engine and took the opportunity to lower the cost of the BMW Z4.
The BMW Z series was a staple in many different areas of the automotive world. Originally, this series consisted solely of roadsters, but over time it expanded to include coupes and sports cars. This legend began in 1986 when it was first introduced and spans 6 generations: Roadster, Coupe, Sports Car and Concept variants that still exist today.
The History of the BMW Z4
The first BMW Z4, from 2002, was a focused sports car convertible. It proved to be hugely successful and everyone loved it for its lithe handling as well as focusing on the driver experience. The second-generation Z4 compromised its performance and handling by adding an easy hardtop roof, making the car heavy. This alienated many people who love driving their cars just like they are supposed too.
While previous BMW Z4s weren’t exactly the most exciting of cars, the new Z4 embodies BMW’s new design ethos, where every curve, line and crease is meant to grab your attention.
With a distinctive, angular front end that interrupts the generally smooth lines, a bulbous rear with aggressive ‘kick’ tail lights on either side that resemble those on other models such as the M2 Coupé or X4, and doors that are crossed by chrome hinges at six points so they open easily before folding over each other like butterfly wings when closed.
Why is the BMW Z4 so cheap when it’s popular, has decent performance, and great design? The BMW Z4 is cheaper because it’s the result of a mutually beneficial agreement between Toyota and BMW.
For Toyota, this alliance made sense- BMW had enough inline-six engines for the Supra that they needed, but couldn’t afford to develop an entirely new car without outside help. For BMW, splitting the cost of developing a new Z4 allowed them to bring the new version back to market.
Why is the BMW Z4 So Cheap?
The Engine
The Z4 Roadster is a sleek, stunning car that comes in two engine options—
- “sDrive30i” is equipped with the powerful 2.0-liter BMW TwinPower Turbo inline-four gasoline engine, which produces 255 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque
- Z4 M40i powered by 3.0-liter BMW M TwinPower Turbo inline-6-cylinder gasoline engine with 382 horsepower and 368 ft-lbs of torque that powers through any terrain you throw at it.
If you are looking for good gas mileage and performance to work, the sDrive30i is your go-to option. If you want more muscle from an amazing ride with style, you should go for the Z4 M40i option.
Engineering and Design
This car is a perfect example of style and performance. It’s sleek, safe and most importantly fast with a near perfect 50/50 weight distribution. With an efficient aerodynamic system that keeps it safe in the windiest conditions and a standard dual exhaust for optimal performance from start to finish, this roadster has all your needs covered.
The BMW Z4 is a responsive and well-tuned car that all drivers will enjoy. The sporty suspension and relatively low center of gravity make it easy to take corners in any situation without feeling like you’re going to tip over. The design features an ergonomic leather steering wheel for ultimate control.
The standard M sports seats offer perfect comfort and support. You’ve a choice of these leather combination upholstery to keep you comfortable for hours—
- SensaTec
- Vernasca Leather
- Alcantara Leather
It is strange since engineering and car designs are reasons why some cars are brutally expensive…
- Nissan NSXs
- Porsche 911s
- Audi R8s
- BMW M8s
- Nissan GTRS
Fuel Economy
The Z4 is available in two models that differ in fuel economy. The sDrive30i is rated at 25/32 mpg while, on the other hand, the M40i is rated at 22/30 mpg city/highway with an eight-speed automatic transmission.
BMW Z4 Comfortability
The Z4 offers a great balance of comfort, performance, and style. The optional adaptive M Sport suspension provides the best ride quality when road conditions warrant it, but even without it, ride comfort is very high regardless of how rough or smooth my driving was.
On highways and country roads, there was never a point where the vibrations interfered too much with passenger conversation – no wonder, given how quiet these cars can be when they’re up top.
BMW Z4 Technology
The BMW Z4 is the perfect car for those who don’t want to compromise on performance and style. It’s equipped with the latest technology and has an interior that gives you full control over every aspect of your drive.
The 10-inch screen gives drivers a clear view of their driving data and what’s happening on the road, without having to take their eyes off the road.
The Z4 has a host of new features, including the My BMW app, which allows you to lock and unlock doors, check vehicle status or start the engine remotely.
The Driver Assistance packages help you stay in control behind the wheel: Active Blind Spot Detection and Lane Departure Warning warn you of an obstacle on your right or Lane Keeping Assist, which alerts you as soon as you deviate from your lane to avoid accidents.
Safety
The new Z4 will come with a host of safety features, including rear-end collision warning and automatic front emergency braking. Optional Active Driving Assist is available, which adds lane departure warning, pedestrian detection, cross-traffic alert, and blind-spot warning.
Adaptive Cruise Control can be purchased separately and adds even more safety to your journey. In addition, the BMW Z4 is equipped with a standard Active Front Lighting System, which allows you to adjust the headlamps’ intensity depending on whether it’s night or day.
The Cost
Are you looking to get a BMW Z4 cheap? The best option for you would be the sDrive30i model.
This fuel-efficient vehicle is one of the least expensive in its class, and still offers speeds that will impress without breaking your budget!
And as an FYI, there are other great competitors that are also grossly cheap as well—
Summary
The BMW Z4 is a great luxury sports car that can be driven by two people. It offers comfort for everyday use and an exhilarating driving experience when the top is down!
The available engines are economical and have plenty of power in both six-cylinder variants: the sDrive M40i trim offers plenty of power and is also economical thanks to the 6 cylinders.
The trunk is large and the seats are roomy— not to mention the standard technical equipment, which makes it easy for those who love technical gadgets but hate complicated systems like infotainment centers.