BMW - Z4

2003 onwards

The Z4 is a far better drive than the Z3; it's also more distinctive. No girlie roadster, it falls short of being an out-and-sports car, and isn't as sharp as Boxster.

	Sportier, more refined and more responsive than Z3
	Quite practical in everyday use; good electric hood
	Minimal depreciation offsets highish running costs
	Styling is too contrived for some tastes
	Lacks the prestige or poise of Boxster
	High prices; little likelihood of a used bargain

More muscular and macho-looking than the Z3 it replaced, the Z4 is also more of a proper sports roadster with its classic front-engine, rear-wheel drive layout and 2.5- or 3.0-litre engines. Sports suspension and wider wheels add to the fun, as does the opportunity to switch to a traction control programme that intervenes later in a tailslide, and the Dynamic Drive Control button to adjust throttle response and steering feel. The Z4 still isn't as exciting to drive as a Boxster, though, as its steering just isn't as precise or communicative.
Better-built and better-finished than the Z3, the Z4 feels solid and substantial, and it is much more rigid in structure. The fabric hood folds away neatly and quickly. There are rollover hoops in the event of an accident, but the Z4 scored only four stars in the Euro NCAP crash tests despite an array of modern safety features.