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2005
BMW Z4

Starts at:
$34,800
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New 2005 BMW Z4
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NHTSA tested vehicle score
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Not rated
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Available trims

See the differences side-by-side to compare trims.
  • 2dr Roadster 2.5i
    Starts at
    $34,800
    21 City / 28 Hwy
    MPG
    2
    Seat capacity
    Gas 6-Cyl
    Engine
    Rear Wheel Drive
    Drivetrain
    See all specs
  • 2dr Roadster 3.0i
    Starts at
    $41,800
    19 City / 27 Hwy
    MPG
    2
    Seat capacity
    Gas 6-Cyl
    Engine
    Rear Wheel Drive
    Drivetrain
    See all specs

Photo & video gallery

2005 BMW Z4 2005 BMW Z4 2005 BMW Z4 2005 BMW Z4 2005 BMW Z4 2005 BMW Z4 2005 BMW Z4 2005 BMW Z4 2005 BMW Z4 2005 BMW Z4 2005 BMW Z4 2005 BMW Z4 2005 BMW Z4 2005 BMW Z4 2005 BMW Z4

Notable features

184- or 225-hp engine
Four available transmissions
Two-passenger roadster
Manual or powered fabric top
Optional removable hardtop

The good & the bad

The good

Handling and stability
Performance of Z4 3.0i
Ride comfort on smooth surfaces
Quietness
Seat comfort and support

The bad

Ride comfort on rough surfaces
Difficult entry and exit
Cargo space

Expert 2005 BMW Z4 review

our expert's take
Our expert's take
By Anita And Paul Lienert
Full article
our expert's take

BMW’s Z4 has not created much of a stir since its arrival two years ago. Built in South Carolina, the two-seat roadster has polarized prospective buyers with a much more radical exterior design than its predecessor, the Z3, and sales have suffered.

With a mid-cycle makeover and a hardtop companion on the horizon, we thought the car merited a second look while there was still enough mild weather to take the top down.

We tested a lavishly equipped 2005 Z4 3.0i, with more than $5,000 worth of options. The bottom line: $47,245.

HE: I don’t know how much more fun I can take — a Pontiac Solstice one week, a BMW Z4 the next. Automotive fantasies don’t get much better than this.

SHE: I don’t think it’s a coincidence that your fantasy BMW roadster came equipped with a “dream red/black leather” interior. Because basically I think you’re dreaming if you think I’m gonna give my seal of approval to this bit of excess. Look at it this way. We could get his-and-hers Solstices or even his-and-her Mazda Miatas for the price of this Z4, and have enough money left over for a trip to the Bahamas. How can you justify spending this much cash on a seasonal vehicle in Michigan?

HE: Honey, just drop the top on the Z4 and you can easily picture yourself in the Bahamas, with all that 90-degree weather we’ve had this summer. And I wouldn’t worry so much about Michigan winters — not with features like standard stability control and antilock brakes, plus an insulated canvas top with a glass rear window. As much as I like the Solstice, the Z4 goes one better — it looks sensational inside and out. I love the matte brushed-metal surfaces inside, and the shape, with all those sculpted curves, is enough to make any man drool.

SHE: I have to admit BMW did a great job with the Z4 powertrain. The twin-cam 3.0-liter straight six makes 225 horsepower and feels really quick. BMW also shortened the throws on the six-speed gearbox, which makes it even easier to shift. Despite the terrific performance, you don’t pay a penalty for fuel economy. But the pennies you save on gas are more than offset by the ridiculously steep option prices. Why do heated seats, for instance, cost an extra $500?

HE: Set the issue of price aside for a minute, and let’s talk a little more about performance. You’re right, the engine and transmission are just about perfect. But the whole car is so beautifully balanced, from the speed-sensitive steering to the multi-link rear suspension. It’s a road-hugger that you just want to drive, and drive hard, for hours on end. The fact that it looks so sweet, with such an alluring cockpit, is a bonus, as far as I’m concerned. Very few two-seaters in this price class — the Chevrolet Corvette might be the exception — offer the full package like this BMW does.

SHE: As far as convertibles go, the Z4 is fine and very livable. The optional power top is extremely easy to operate, and there is a surprising amount of room in the trunk. And you can see the Germans tried hard to cram as many amenities as they could into the cabin, including little touches like a glove box behind the seats that has a penholder and an elastic strap for a parking card. The standard safety hardware is also pretty impressive, not to mention high-tech. In addition to side air bags and rollover protection, the Z4 comes with run-flat tires, rain-sensing wipers and adaptive brake lights.

HE: For a change, I don’t have much to grouse about. My biggest beef is with the fancy extra-cost M sport bucket seats, which just didn’t fit my big butt. I still crave a Corvette in my driveway — but I surely wouldn’t mind if a BMW Z4 suddenly dropped out of the heavens one day and landed in my garage. With Paris Hilton in the passenger seat, of course.

SHE: Oh, poor Paris.

– – –

He drove, she drove Anita and Paul Lienert are partners in Lienert & Lienert, an Ann Arbor automotive information services company.

– – –

2005 BMW Z4 3.0i

Type: Front-engine, rear-wheel drive, two-passenger convertible.

Price: Base, $41,995 (inc. $695 destination charge); as tested, $47,245.

Engine: 3.0-liter I-6; 225-hp; 214 lb-ft torque.

EPA fuel economy: 21 mpg city/29 mpg highway.

Where built: Greer, S.C.

Key competitors: Audi TT, Chevrolet Corvette, Chrysler Crossfire, Ford Thunderbird, Honda S2000, Lotus Elise, Mercedes-Benz SLK-Class, Nissan 350Z, Porsche Boxster.

12-month insurance cost, estimated by AAA Michigan: $1,687. (Rates may be higher or lower, depending on coverage and driving record.)
– – –
Anita’s rating: 4

Likes: Good safety equipment, including standard ABS, stability control, side air bags, adaptive brake lights, rain-sensing wipers, run-flat tires, active knee and rollover protection. Surprisingly roomy trunk. Optional power top is easy to operate with push of one button on IP. Small glove box behind seats with penholder, elastic strap for parking card.

Dislikes: Needs adjustable pedals. Cabin and seats felt cramped. Too expensive. Heated seats cost an extra $500.

Paul’s rating: 5

Likes: Strong inline six-cylinder engine provides quick acceleration. Lovely 6-speed gearbox with razor-sharp shifts. Distinctive and voluptuous exterior. Brushed matte-metal interior trim. Sensational handling. Good fuel economy for a sports car. Gorgeous alloy wheels.

Dislikes: Optional M seats too tight in the butt. Not much storage space in cabin. Dumb cup holders.

Vehicle ratings: 1. Unacceptable, 2. Subpar, 3. Acceptable, 4. Above Average, 5. World Class

2005 BMW Z4 review: Our expert's take
By Anita And Paul Lienert

BMW’s Z4 has not created much of a stir since its arrival two years ago. Built in South Carolina, the two-seat roadster has polarized prospective buyers with a much more radical exterior design than its predecessor, the Z3, and sales have suffered.

With a mid-cycle makeover and a hardtop companion on the horizon, we thought the car merited a second look while there was still enough mild weather to take the top down.

We tested a lavishly equipped 2005 Z4 3.0i, with more than $5,000 worth of options. The bottom line: $47,245.

HE: I don’t know how much more fun I can take — a Pontiac Solstice one week, a BMW Z4 the next. Automotive fantasies don’t get much better than this.

SHE: I don’t think it’s a coincidence that your fantasy BMW roadster came equipped with a “dream red/black leather” interior. Because basically I think you’re dreaming if you think I’m gonna give my seal of approval to this bit of excess. Look at it this way. We could get his-and-hers Solstices or even his-and-her Mazda Miatas for the price of this Z4, and have enough money left over for a trip to the Bahamas. How can you justify spending this much cash on a seasonal vehicle in Michigan?

HE: Honey, just drop the top on the Z4 and you can easily picture yourself in the Bahamas, with all that 90-degree weather we’ve had this summer. And I wouldn’t worry so much about Michigan winters — not with features like standard stability control and antilock brakes, plus an insulated canvas top with a glass rear window. As much as I like the Solstice, the Z4 goes one better — it looks sensational inside and out. I love the matte brushed-metal surfaces inside, and the shape, with all those sculpted curves, is enough to make any man drool.

SHE: I have to admit BMW did a great job with the Z4 powertrain. The twin-cam 3.0-liter straight six makes 225 horsepower and feels really quick. BMW also shortened the throws on the six-speed gearbox, which makes it even easier to shift. Despite the terrific performance, you don’t pay a penalty for fuel economy. But the pennies you save on gas are more than offset by the ridiculously steep option prices. Why do heated seats, for instance, cost an extra $500?

HE: Set the issue of price aside for a minute, and let’s talk a little more about performance. You’re right, the engine and transmission are just about perfect. But the whole car is so beautifully balanced, from the speed-sensitive steering to the multi-link rear suspension. It’s a road-hugger that you just want to drive, and drive hard, for hours on end. The fact that it looks so sweet, with such an alluring cockpit, is a bonus, as far as I’m concerned. Very few two-seaters in this price class — the Chevrolet Corvette might be the exception — offer the full package like this BMW does.

SHE: As far as convertibles go, the Z4 is fine and very livable. The optional power top is extremely easy to operate, and there is a surprising amount of room in the trunk. And you can see the Germans tried hard to cram as many amenities as they could into the cabin, including little touches like a glove box behind the seats that has a penholder and an elastic strap for a parking card. The standard safety hardware is also pretty impressive, not to mention high-tech. In addition to side air bags and rollover protection, the Z4 comes with run-flat tires, rain-sensing wipers and adaptive brake lights.

HE: For a change, I don’t have much to grouse about. My biggest beef is with the fancy extra-cost M sport bucket seats, which just didn’t fit my big butt. I still crave a Corvette in my driveway — but I surely wouldn’t mind if a BMW Z4 suddenly dropped out of the heavens one day and landed in my garage. With Paris Hilton in the passenger seat, of course.

SHE: Oh, poor Paris.

– – –

He drove, she drove Anita and Paul Lienert are partners in Lienert & Lienert, an Ann Arbor automotive information services company.

– – –

2005 BMW Z4 3.0i

Type: Front-engine, rear-wheel drive, two-passenger convertible.

Price: Base, $41,995 (inc. $695 destination charge); as tested, $47,245.

Engine: 3.0-liter I-6; 225-hp; 214 lb-ft torque.

EPA fuel economy: 21 mpg city/29 mpg highway.

Where built: Greer, S.C.

Key competitors: Audi TT, Chevrolet Corvette, Chrysler Crossfire, Ford Thunderbird, Honda S2000, Lotus Elise, Mercedes-Benz SLK-Class, Nissan 350Z, Porsche Boxster.

12-month insurance cost, estimated by AAA Michigan: $1,687. (Rates may be higher or lower, depending on coverage and driving record.)
– – –
Anita’s rating: 4

Likes: Good safety equipment, including standard ABS, stability control, side air bags, adaptive brake lights, rain-sensing wipers, run-flat tires, active knee and rollover protection. Surprisingly roomy trunk. Optional power top is easy to operate with push of one button on IP. Small glove box behind seats with penholder, elastic strap for parking card.

Dislikes: Needs adjustable pedals. Cabin and seats felt cramped. Too expensive. Heated seats cost an extra $500.

Paul’s rating: 5

Likes: Strong inline six-cylinder engine provides quick acceleration. Lovely 6-speed gearbox with razor-sharp shifts. Distinctive and voluptuous exterior. Brushed matte-metal interior trim. Sensational handling. Good fuel economy for a sports car. Gorgeous alloy wheels.

Dislikes: Optional M seats too tight in the butt. Not much storage space in cabin. Dumb cup holders.

Vehicle ratings: 1. Unacceptable, 2. Subpar, 3. Acceptable, 4. Above Average, 5. World Class

Safety review

Based on the 2005 BMW Z4 base trim
NHTSA crash test and rollover ratings, scored out of 5.
Frontal driver
4/5
Frontal passenger
4/5
Nhtsa rollover rating
5/5
Side driver
3/5

Factory warranties

New car program benefits

Basic
4 years / 50,000 miles
Corrosion
12 years
Powertrain
4 years / 50,000 miles
Roadside Assistance
4 years / 50,000 miles

Certified Pre-Owned program benefits

Age / mileage
Certified Pre-Owned Elite with less than 15,000 miles; Certified Pre-Owned with less than 60,000 miles
Basic
1 year / unlimited miles from expiration of 4-year / 50,000-mile new car warranty
Dealer certification
196-point inspection

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Consumer reviews

4.7 / 5
Based on 43 reviews
Write a review
Comfort 4.4
Interior 4.4
Performance 4.7
Value 4.8
Exterior 4.8
Reliability 4.5

Most recent

  • Love my z4 2005. Purchased used at 151,099 miles.r

    Awesome ride!!! Cup holders suck.expensive to work on or p urchase parts.overall handles great.very zippy.recently making noise driver side wheel?any advice,just replaced brake pads 300 miles ago.advice on maintenance be great.154.000 miles.purchased at 151099 miles.thqnks
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Having fun
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 4.0
    Interior 4.0
    Performance 4.0
    Value 4.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 4.0
    5 people out of 5 found this review helpful. Did you?
    Yes No
  • Great convertible

    This is a 2005 BMW Z4 purchased in 2013 with 48,000 miles. This has to be one of the best cars BMW ever made. It has a strong engine. It is super fun to drive. The fastest i have taken her up to is about 120 miles an hour. and it didn't even feel like I was going a hundred and twenty. That's on the straight away. However this car performs stupendously in the curves! I will say that since I purchased her I've had to replace the top motor. Valve cover gasket and numerous other things. So this car is not a cheap toy but everything I have put into her is well worth it because I drive around with a smile on my face. Great little convertible! She now has 88,000 miles and as long as she is maintained she will be going strong for quite some time.
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Having fun
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 5.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 4.0
    14 people out of 14 found this review helpful. Did you?
    Yes No
  • This car rocks!

    Love the styling and that it’s a BMW. Lots of well thought out features. All leather interior, convertible, great paint job! The alloy wheels really set off the overall looks of the car.
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Having fun
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 5.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 5.0
    10 people out of 10 found this review helpful. Did you?
    Yes No
  • Costly repairs

    The cost of repairs are ridiculous. No recalls for common “expensive” known issues. I paid $9200 for this car in good used condition and have already spent $5000 in repairs for common known issues. First major issue was the convertible top motors now an electric power steering failure.
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Having fun
    • Does not recommend this car
    Comfort 2.0
    Interior 2.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 3.0
    Exterior 3.0
    Reliability 1.0
    35 people out of 38 found this review helpful. Did you?
    Yes No
  • A Z4 is a great car!

    This car is perfect. It drives beautifully and is awesome to look at. It has a big car feel, but it is still a sports car. Great ride!
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Having fun
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 5.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 5.0
    1 person out of 1 found this review helpful. Did you?
    Yes No
  • Update to my July 2009 review

    The car is now 14 years old - and I’m still as happy with it as I was for my review here ten years ago. In fact, I’ve shown it in 6 of the 8 annual Deutsche Marques show at the Gilmore Car Museum in SW Michigan. I’ve put three sets of tires on it in the 10 years that I’ve owned it (replaced due to time and 50% used) - because I like the great traction that Summer-Only RFT’s provide. It how has 60K miles; and the only repair issue was a drive axle pinion bolt (not expensive) - and I changed the transmission and drive axle lubricant once already. Engine belt were changed this spring, and I changed spark plugs - just ‘cuz - at 50 K miles. The car is rock solid. It rides smooth - only on asphalt - and I can drive over a buffalo nickel and tell if it was heads or tails - but the agility is worth the stiffness. The only thing I’m concerned with is that if someone drives into me, I’ll be sick having to accept the ridiculously-low retail prices that are shown on this and other car sites. While I wouldn’t part with it at those prices, I heartily recommend that if you can find one at those prices - Buy It!
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Having fun
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 5.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 4.0
    2 people out of 2 found this review helpful. Did you?
    Yes No
  • I own it now. Drive and style can't be beat.

    Car has style, power and beauty. Design is ageless. Handles like a dream. Very well maintained. Beautiful color not normally seen on a BMW. Very unique.
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Having fun
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 5.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 5.0
    2 people out of 2 found this review helpful. Did you?
    Yes No
  • Great sports car without going broke

    Fun car to drive. Great car if you like to do your own maintenance. Lot's of DIY help available, parts reasonably priced, limited number of special tools. It has its quirks, but a very reliable, solid car.
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Having fun
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 4.0
    Interior 4.0
    Performance 4.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 5.0
    1 person out of 1 found this review helpful. Did you?
    Yes No
  • Fun to drive and powerful!

    I?ve only owed this car for a few weeks, so can?t comment on reliability. I will say it is the most fun car to drive I?ve ever driven. Car goes like stink, has power throughout the power curve, and handles like a dream. I have been unable to make the tires squeal around corners, believe me I?ve tried! It?s my weekend fun car, I got insurance thru Hagerty for about $400 a year. Trunk space is pretty good for a roadster, but interior storage is lacking. Cup holders are pretty flimsy. List price new is high, but you can get great deals on used ones. Run flat tires, no spare tire.
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Having fun
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 4.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 5.0
    0 people out of 1 found this review helpful. Did you?
    Yes No
  • Great Relatively Inexpensive Sports Car

    Enjoyed riding in the car. Handles very well though a bit weak on power. Great to work on and no special tools required for most maintenance. Interior is a bit sparse but find it very comfortable (I am only 5'9"). I very much like the classic sports car look of the car though some do not agree.
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Having fun
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 4.0
    Performance 3.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 3.0
    Reliability 5.0
    0 people out of 0 found this review helpful. Did you?
    Yes No
  • Best Value Available in a Convertible Sports Car

    I have owned many sports cars over the years: Corvettes, S2000, Porsches of many types and vintages, but I have to say the first generation Z4 is my favorite. It's obviously not the fastest, may not be the best handling, but I feel is the most fun to drive, most solid feeling, smoothest of them all. It just feels solid and well put together and has been trouble free. Have owned the car for 5 years and have no unexpected issues or trouble with the car, drive year round in Wisconsin with Blizzaks and it drives as well in the snow as our Jeep Cherokee ( As long as its lees than 5 inches of snow ). I highly recommend the first generation Z4 (2003-2007) as long as you find one with strong service history for sport motoring enjoyment.
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Having fun
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 5.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 5.0
    3 people out of 3 found this review helpful. Did you?
    Yes No
  • Fun to Drive and Very Affordable.

    Fun and easy to drive. Very fast ,great handling and fun to drive. I would recommend the car for people looking for a fun in the sun convertible!
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 4.0
    Interior 4.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 4.0
    Exterior 5.0
    0 people out of 0 found this review helpful. Did you?
    Yes No

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FAQ

What trim levels are available for the 2005 BMW Z4?

The 2005 BMW Z4 is available in 2 trim levels:

  • 2.5i (1 style)
  • 3.0i (1 style)

What is the MPG of the 2005 BMW Z4?

The 2005 BMW Z4 offers up to 21 MPG in city driving and 28 MPG on the highway. These figures are based on EPA mileage ratings and are for comparison purposes only. The actual mileage will vary depending on vehicle options, trim level, driving conditions, driving habits, vehicle maintenance, and other factors.

What are some similar vehicles and competitors of the 2005 BMW Z4?

The 2005 BMW Z4 compares to and/or competes against the following vehicles:

Is the 2005 BMW Z4 reliable?

The 2005 BMW Z4 has an average reliability rating of 4.5 out of 5 according to cars.com consumers. Find real-world reliability insights within consumer reviews from 2005 BMW Z4 owners.

Is the 2005 BMW Z4 a good Convertible?

Below are the cars.com consumers ratings for the 2005 BMW Z4. 97.7% of drivers recommend this vehicle.

4.7 / 5
Based on 43 reviews
  • Comfort: 4.4
  • Interior: 4.4
  • Performance: 4.7
  • Value: 4.8
  • Exterior: 4.8
  • Reliability: 4.5

BMW Z4 history

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