BMW Z4 Roadster running costs prove that having a genuinely sporty two-seater convertible needn’t be an expensive experience. Compared to alternatives it is decent value and well equipped while its desirability ensures it will hold its value well.

BMW servicing isn’t particularly cheap but the Service Inclusive is a good deal if you’re buying new and covers you for five years/60,000 miles of servicing for a one-off up-front payment.

Other costs to bear in mind are the run-flat tyres which are more expensive than standard tyres.

As for insurance, the lowest-powered 18i is in group 33 while the 35i is group 42. Economy is a reasonable 31mpg to 41mpg – good considering the performance offered.

Considering the performance offered, BMW Z4 Roadster emissions aren’t as polluting as you’d expect – the sDrive 18i, 20i and 28i average 41mpg while emitting 159g/km of CO2.

This is partly due to BMW’s EfficientDynamics programme which includes features such as Brake Energy Regeneration that recycles what would otherwise be lost energy to save fuel.

Even the powerful 35i model returns a useful 30mpg and emits 219g/km of CO2. Opting for an automatic model sees these figures improve further.

The original BMW Z4 Roadster reliability proved extremely strong – it was never recalled – and this model is almost as good. All the engines have been proven in other models and BMW has a good reputation for metal folding roofs thanks to the 3 Series and 4 Series Convertibles.

BMW Z4 Roadster recalls

BMW’s announcement in May 2018 that Z4s built up until August 2011 would be subjected to a recall is one of the few reliability glitches to affect the sports car.

This issue relates to an engine fault that can cause the car to stall while it’s being driven.

Ensure you check with a BMW retailer whether a Z4 Roadster you’re thinking of buying has had the required work carried out.