What if you ended up wasting thousands of dollars on the wrong BMW?
There are many different models out there. However, the BMW Z4 E85 is the next BMW that should grace your driveway!
Don’t believe us? Keep reading to discover our guide to this BMW’s hottest features!
What Is the BMW Z4 E85?
We’ve put together a solid guide to the best features of this particular BMW. Before we dive any further, though, it’s important to define the exact vehicle that we are talking about.
This is a kind of BMW model that was produced between 2003 and 2008. We are focusing on the E85, but the Z4 series was also available in the form of the BMW E86.
This model is a two-seat convertible roadster model. In terms of design, it is curvy and looks strikingly different from the Z3 model that came before it.
Such vehicles are easily available on the aftermarket. One of our favorite ways to browse for vehicles is to use Craigslist or the Facebook Marketplace feature.
Always remember to get a pre-purchase inspection to verify the history and condition of the car before you end up buying it!
1. Relatively Cheap
It may seem shallow, but one of the best features of any vehicle is a low cost. And as BMWs go, the cost for the E85 is relatively cheap!
Generally speaking, you can get this vehicle for under $10,000. While that may not seem cheap for a vehicle that is over a decade old, it is a value when compared to its competition.
For around the same price, you could get the most basic version of a Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, this particular BMW has better handling, design, and overall user experience than the Miata can offer.
2. Sturdy Ride
Speaking of Miata, the BMW is much heavier. How heavy are we talking? About 500-600 pounds.
If your only priority is fuel efficiency, then that added weight may be a bad thing. However, the extra weight ends up making the BMW a sturdier and smoother ride.
This BMW is less likely to rattle over uneven surfaces, for example. Plus, you get the security that comes from riding a car that is more than just a glorified piece of plastic.
It sounds like a simple thing, but we like the feeling over power and stability when we drive. And this BMW offers that to drivers every time you turn the key.
3. Convertible
Every car has a basic purpose at the core of its design. And when it comes to roadsters, that purpose is simple: to have fun!
The E85 is a convertible ride, making it perfect for you to enjoy the summer or spring weather. And let’s face it: there’s no substitute for the feeling of the wind rushing through your hair as you speed down the road!
Obviously, this model of BMW is not the only convertible out there. However, it’s rare to find a vehicle that combines a convertible exterior with a luxurious interior.
4. Spacious Interior
The E85 is a two-seat roadster. And most of the time, this conjures up mental images of a very cramped interior.
However, that is not the case with this BMW. Sure, there are only two seats, but each person will be enjoying a surprising amount of elbow room during the drive.
And the interior is not just conveniently spacious. That spacious interior also happens to be very luxurious.
As an example, the mirrors auto-dim, the seat height is adjustable, and the climate control is automatic. These make for a comfy and convenient ride and are standard on the E85.
Meanwhile, you’d need to get a seriously tricked-out Miata to come close to this kind of luxury.
5. Surprisingly Modern
One reason that buyers hesitate to get “vintage” automobiles is the aesthetic factor. To be blunt, some designs age better than others.
You probably wouldn’t want to rock the clothes you were wearing back in 2005. So, fair question: why would you want to drive a car from this era?
Simply put, the design of the Z4 series feels surprisingly modern. It looks like a quantum leap in aesthetics from its predecessor, the Z3.
The result is a vehicle that still looks sleek, sexy, and modern to this day. And you’d be hard-pressed to find a new vehicle at this price point that looks anywhere near as good!
6. The Need for Speed
Different people want various things from the cars they purchase. And some people have a very simple need: the need for speed!
We’re happy to report that the E85 has a relatively powerful engine under the hood. You should be able to go from “0 to 60” in less than 7 seconds, meaning that this little car is still packing a lot of get up and go.
If you like complete control over your speedy driving, there are multiple options available. The car defaulted to an automatic drive, though manual variants are available for those who want full control whenever they drive.
7. Lots of Luggage Room
Earlier, we mentioned how the E85 has a surprising amount of room up front for the driver and passenger. We’re pleased to report that this car is also sporting a surprising amount of room in the back as well.
There is over 10 cubic feet of trunk space in the back. This means that you (and maybe a partner) can pack plenty of luggage and gear in the back before you make your escape.
Also–not to rub it in, Miata owners–but that amount of space is nearly twice what is offered by most Miatas of the same generation. With this BMW, you can have speed and space, all while driving a car that is still guaranteed to turn heads.
The Bottom Line on These Cool Features
Now you know the many benefits of the BMW Z4 E85. But do you know how to take care of your new ride?
We specialize in helping car owners take care of each and every one of their vehicles. To see how we can take care of your garage, check out our DIY Repair section today!