BMW Z4 Roadster (2003 - 2008) 2.5i SE 2d (03) (2003/53) Owner Review
Want to know everything there is to know about this car?
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Summary
What does this car say about you?
To be honest I don't like being a BMW owner; the stereotypical image is a little embarrassing.
What do your friends / family / neighbours think of the car?
Everybody loves it. My old Porsche by contrast seemed to be the cause of much envy.
Would you buy this car again and why?
Well, even though I do really like this car, I'm not sure I could live with the lifeless steering again (I thought I'd get used to it when I first bought it).
What are you likely to buy next?
I like the look of the new SLK, but it'll probably be another Porsche (Boxster). I've crossed the Honda s2000 off my list after a recent test drive; it's cramped, unrefined and a little vulgar.
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Buying experience
Type of dealer you bought from?
Independent
Did you buy this car new?
No
What price did you pay?
£13,000
When did you buy the car?
December 2007
Did you get a good deal and why?
Is there any special reason why you bought this car?
Seems good value and spec against other used rivals.
What was the dealer like?
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Driving it
What's it like to drive?
Not as fast as my old Porsche, I should have gone for a 3.0 - however, it's still no slouch. Handling and ride are excellent (I hear the sports suspension is too hard). Engine is very smooth; it's very easy to hit the limiter if you're not watching the rev counter. The steering is too light even in sport mode, and is the only disappointing aspect to the driving experience. Sport mode is best left off in the wet by the way, as even the 2.5 is very twitchy on damp roundabouts with it on.
What's it like to park?
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Living with it
Have you had any problems with the car?
Has been totally reliable over 12 months of motoring.
What's most practical about your car?
Surprisingly refined with the roof up, most ragtops are like driving around in a tent. The Z4's roof has a solid front section which I think helps reduce wind noise and stiffens up the whole assembly for the better.
Favourite gadget, option or accessory?
Rather mundanely I think it would be the heated seats; I want them fitted to all my future cars now.
