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Thread: Z4 vs Z3?

  1. #1
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    Z4 vs Z3?

    I'm just starting to research Z3's and Z4's. What is the biggest difference between the two, other than price? I don't know if I want to wait a little longer to get a Z4, or get a Z3. I love the look of both cars. I'm looking at the smaller engine size in an automatic.

    Thanks in advance!

  2. #2
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    The chassis and suspension are the biggest difference - the Z4 is considerably stiffer and the suspension 2 generations newer, so the handling is a LOT better. The interior is roomier, and the Z4 as more head-room with the top up. Those were the two things I noticed right off the bat when test-driving a Z4 (I'd been shopping for a late-model Z3).

    Because the Z4 isn't as popular as the Z3 was, you should be able to find a bargain. The 2003 2.5s are popping up for under $20,000 currently on Autotrader. The cars in this link are the automatics.
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  3. #3
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    I agree with epbrown. I recently test drove another Z4. WOW! It's a very nice car!

    Riaz

  4. #4
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    Z3s are better looking.

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    Some Z3's are prone to that dreaded sub frame problem.
    Z4's are more exotic looking and you dont see them as often.

  6. #6
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    No comparison, IMO. The Z4 is built so much better, much better suspension, much better rear subframe, much better looks. A friend with a Mz3 roadster drove my 2.5 and was VERY impressed with the car.

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  7. #7
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    I went from a 1999 Z3 2.3L to a Z4 3.0i
    To me the best explanation of the difference is that the Z3 is a true Roadster,
    whereas the Z4 is a more refined sports car.
    It handles better, The Top is better, everything just works better and more reliably.
    However both are fun cars..

  8. #8
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    I just test drove a 2003 Z4 today--WOW! What a great car! Loved it! Now, to only find one in red.

  9. #9
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    Z3speed4me is offline Coupe Cartel Forever! BMW CCA Member
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    i had a z3, the z4 is superior in every way

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  10. #10
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    Styling preferences aside...
    If the Z4 wasn't better than the Z3, then something would be very wrong at BMW.

  11. #11
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    Owned a Red Z3 for 5 years. Now own a Z4M and have driven 2.5 and 3.0 Z4s. The Z4 is hands down a better car than a Z3 when it comes to almost every aspect. However, I do miss the really "open" feel I had in the Z3. It was smaller and the door sill was lower so that the driver was more exposed to the elements. I personally like the styling of the Z4 better but the flared wheel arches and sloping rear deck were nice touches on the Z3 that I wish could have been carried over into the Z4 and I think it would have made the Z4 just perfect.

    If it wasn't for the subframe issue and the really crappy plastic rear window I would say get a Z3 but those 2 issues alone should keep you from buying one unless you don't mind replacing your rear window every few years.

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    ^+1 on those rear windows,......
    been there done that, will never have one again

  13. #13
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    Z3's are like Boxters......they're both women's cars.
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  14. #14
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    I sat in a Boxster and was quite surprised at the feeling just sitting there. I really do like the curves of a Z3, but the ride was much better in the Z4 and I liked the bigger inside space. Plus, the bigger trunk for more shopping! Tee hee!

  15. #15
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    Quote Originally Posted by mz4speed4me View Post
    i had a z3, the z4 is superior in every way
    Since I now own both I agree!

    Riaz

  16. #16
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    Quote Originally Posted by Justshoppin View Post
    I sat in a Boxster and was quite surprised at the feeling just sitting there. I really do like the curves of a Z3, but the ride was much better in the Z4 and I liked the bigger inside space. Plus, the bigger trunk for more shopping! Tee hee!
    The Boxster was the only other Roadster that I checked out. I drove a 2001 Boxster Base (Non-S), Automatic) and I hated the way that it handled, and the way that it was weighted with the engine in the center/rear. I also felt it didn't have anywhere near as much punch or acceleration as a Z4 2.5i. And the interior/dash/controls of the Boxster looked like a plastic toy. They reminded me of a Ford Taurus or something. I've been used to Japanese cars like Infiniti's and Lexuses which have best-of-class interior design, so an awful looking interior would not do for me either.

    I was going to check out the SLK and the Crossfire, but I fell in love with the Z4 too much to even bother.

  17. #17
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    Interesting that you didn't like the Boxster. I'm guessing I wouldn't like how it drove either. I'll keep browsing autotrader to find the perfect red Z4. I will try not to be in any hurry, however, once we start getting warmer, non-drizzly days, that will be tough as I'll want to drive topless.

  18. #18
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    I went from a 2000 Z3 2.3 to a 2003 2.5i with SMG and sport package. No comparison. The Z3 was a little wilder and its low doors made you almost feel like you were on a motorcycle. The doors in the Z4 are higher and safer but you don't get the cramped, cockpit feel that say an S2000 has.

    The Z4 is much faster, especially with the sport package and 6 speed SMG. The SMG takes a bit of getting used to but it's amazing to be able to shift without taking your hands off the wheel. The ride is superior to the Z3, it's quieter inside, more luxurious and modern. The factory stereo is prone to skips like the Z3's but the sound is very, very good for a factory system.

    The Z4 has a computer that will tell you mpg, miles left until empty and things like that. More modern look compared to the Z3's classic woodgrain and analog gauges.

    The z4 has a larger trunk. Hauling luggage for two for a weekend in the z3 was a challenge. No problem in the z4 and if you leave the top up, the trunk expands by a few inches to accommodate more luggage.

    Both the Z3 and the Z4 can raise or lower the top at a traffic light. The Z4 is a bit easier and faster because you don't have manual clips for the top.

  19. #19
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    Sounds like the Z4 is definitely the way to go! Thanks guys!

  20. #20
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    what about the s54 z3 mroadster?

  21. #21
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    Quote Originally Posted by borealiss View Post
    what about the s54 z3 mroadster?
    lipstick on a pig, lol. no, it's not. But basically it's still the lesser car, just with more power... so more subframe problems. I chose the less powerful, better made Z4 over an Z3 M roadster. An S52 was in my price range.

    Just my preference. Power isn't high much on my needs list.

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  22. #22
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    If you do a Z3 (classic Roadster w/no frills preferred) consider the 1997 E36/7 with 2.8 L engine (M52B28), as it is a collector's choice, plus you'll get respect from your local BMW Specialist Mechanic, as that's their choice as well...

    ...as stated on Wiki, "2.8-litre, six-cylinder dual-cam engine joined the original 1.9-liter, four-cylinder engine. As it was the first BMW created by BMW in its South Carolina plant in 1997, it has since been considered a collectible with historical value for this fact, along with its elegant body and vintage look that is a hybrid concept from previous vintage roadsters. Its six-cylinder dual-cam engine also classifies it as a classic compared to the more modern, pending 4-cylinder models of 1999 onwards."

    If you do the Z4, and prefer your driving experience to be toned down for everyday drivability, then this is your choice as it's more suited for someone who needs nannies, a hardtop, and frills (e.g. your wife).

    Just know, the decision is yours, but I'd choose the Z3 in 2.8 and only a 1997; they're rare, and hard to find in great condition, but if you do, it's a keeper for sure my friend . . . no that's a true Roadster, aside from Porsche's Speedster product line. ;0P

  23. #23
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    Did you sign up, just to make a point? Are you selling your Z3 and trying to stir interest?

  24. #24
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    Was surprised at some of the posts (and the members posting lol!) before realizing how old this was...

    and lol, nothing special about a '97 2.8 roadster. Dime a dozen. Want collectibility? Get something with an M badge. Want REAL collectibility, buy an S54 M Coupe.

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  25. #25
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    Quote Originally Posted by BimmerBreaker View Post
    Was surprised at some of the posts (and the members posting lol!) before realizing how old this was...

    and lol, nothing special about a '97 2.8 roadster. Dime a dozen. Want collectability? Get something with an M badge. Want REAL collectability, buy an S54 M Coupe.

    LOL. Although I do not have a M coupe, this is true. If you get a Z3 or a Z4, get them in Coupe versions. I love my Coupes. Of course, in different ways.

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