BMW E89 Z4 buying guide: the folding hard top roadster

The E89 Z4 is the second-generation Z4, built from 2009 to 2016. Unlike its predecessor and successor, it used a folding aluminium hard top, which made it both a roadster and a comfortable coupé.

With elegant styling, rear-wheel drive and a choice of four and six-cylinder engines, it is a popular used sports car. In this buying guide we explain the E89 Z4 roof, engines, common issues and what to check before you buy.

A roadster and coupé in one

The E89 Z4 replaced both the roadster and coupé versions of the earlier Z4 with a single car featuring a folding hard top. With the roof closed, it feels like a quiet coupé. With the roof open, it is a classic two-seat roadster.

The design is long and elegant, with a classic sports car shape. Our article on the Z3 M and Z4 M explains the earlier M roadsters, and our article on the BMW Z4 M40i explains the later generation.

Engines

The E89 Z4 was offered with several engines:

• sDrive23i and sDrive30i: naturally aspirated six-cylinder engines in early cars. Our article on the BMW N52 engine explains this engine family.
• sDrive18i, sDrive20i and sDrive28i: four-cylinder turbo engines in later cars.
• sDrive35i: a twin-turbo six-cylinder.
• sDrive35is: a more powerful version of the twin-turbo six-cylinder with an overboost function.

The six-cylinder models offer the classic BMW roadster experience, while the four-cylinder turbos are more economical.

The folding hard top

The roof is the most important thing to check. When buying an E89 Z4:

• Operate the roof several times and watch for smooth, complete movement.
• Listen for unusual noises from the hydraulic system.
• Check for warning messages during roof operation.
• Look for water leaks in the cabin and boot.
• Inspect the seals between roof panels.

Roof faults are often caused by sensors, hydraulic leaks or a weak battery. Our article on BMW convertible roof care explains how to look after it.

E89 Z4 common issues

Other points to check include:

• Fuel pump and injectors on twin-turbo six-cylinder engines. Our article on BMW HPFP problems explains the symptoms.
• Timing chain on some four-cylinder turbo engines. Our article on BMW timing chain problems explains this.
• Oil leaks from gaskets on older engines.
• Water pump and thermostat on six-cylinder engines. Our article on BMW cooling system problems explains them.
• Run-flat tyres on many cars, which make the ride firmer. Our article on BMW run-flat tyres explains them.
• Wheels for kerb damage.

Gearboxes

The E89 Z4 was offered with a six-speed manual, a six or eight-speed automatic, and a seven-speed dual-clutch gearbox on the sDrive35i and sDrive35is. The dual-clutch gearbox offers quick shifts but should be checked for smooth engagement at low speeds.

Manual cars are popular with enthusiasts. Check the clutch and flywheel. Our article on the BMW dual-mass flywheel explains the symptoms.

Running costs

The four-cylinder models are the most economical, while the twin-turbo six-cylinders offer much more performance with higher costs. Insurance for roadsters can vary by market and driver.

The roof mechanism adds potential costs if it fails, so a car with documented roof maintenance is a good sign. Budget for tyres, brakes and preventive maintenance. Our guide to BMW M car running costs explains how to plan for a sports car.

Interior and equipment

The E89 Z4 has a much higher quality interior than the earlier Z4, with soft materials, a large retractable screen on cars with navigation and comfortable seats. Check that the screen, electric seats, heated seats and air conditioning all work. Look at the leather on the driver's seat bolster, which wears on many roadsters, and make sure the boot is dry, since water can collect there if the roof drains are blocked.

Driving experience

The E89 Z4 is comfortable and refined, more of a grand touring roadster than a raw sports car. The steering is precise, and the long bonnet and rear-wheel drive give it a classic feel. Adaptive suspension, where fitted, improves comfort and control.

With the roof down, the six-cylinder engines sound especially good. With the roof up, the car is quiet enough for long journeys.

Test drive checklist

On the test drive:

• Operate the roof several times.
• Start the engine cold and listen for unusual noises.
• Test the gearbox, especially the dual-clutch at low speeds.
• Check for water leaks and damp carpets.
• Feel for vibration and listen for suspension knocks.
• Read the fault memory.

Our complete checklist for buying a used BMW covers other checks.

Is the E89 Z4 a good buy?

A well-maintained E89 Z4 is a stylish and enjoyable roadster that works all year round thanks to its hard top. Six-cylinder models offer the most character, while later four-cylinder models are economical and modern.

Focus on roof condition and service history. A Z4 with a healthy roof and engine can provide many years of open-air driving pleasure.

BMW E89 Z4 key facts

Item	Details
Production	2009 to 2016
Body	Two-seat roadster with folding aluminium hard top
Six-cylinder	sDrive23i, sDrive30i, sDrive35i, sDrive35is
Four-cylinder	sDrive18i, sDrive20i, sDrive28i
Gearboxes	Manual, automatic, dual-clutch on 35i/35is
Key check	Folding roof operation and leaks
Other checks	Fuel pump, timing chain, cooling, tyres

Frequently asked questions

Is the E89 Z4 reliable?

Generally yes, with good maintenance. The folding roof and some engine components need careful checks.

Which E89 Z4 engine is best?

Six-cylinder models offer the most character; four-cylinder models are more economical.

Does the E89 Z4 have a hard top?

Yes. It has a folding aluminium hard top that turns it into a coupé when closed.

What is the sDrive35is?

A more powerful version of the twin-turbo six-cylinder model with an overboost function.

Sources

• BMW Group PressClub – BMW Z4 (E89) press kits
• BMW Group Classic – model information