2003 BMW Z4 2.5i 5-speed

Many people like this idea Photo of a vintage British sports car. Maybe they owned one 30 years ago and have fond memories of long trips across the country in the car and want to relive those times. While plenty of people go out and buy a classic Triumph TR6 or MG MGB, many of them find that the cars they miss aren’t that interesting after all. This could be because the car is constantly in need of repairs, or the basic seats are now not as comfortable as they once were. Additionally, cars from the 1960s and 1970s were slow compared to any modern car (even minivans). If you find yourself in the second category, I recommend another option: the BMW Z4 Roadster.

The BMW Z4 is the second small convertible sports car offered by BMW in the United States. I own both a Z4 and a Z3. Although I think the Z3 has more classic styling, the Z4 improves every aspect of the Z3, including handling, ride, driving dynamics, and performance. and comfort. I would say I sold the Z4 to buy back the old Z3, but I did it because I knew I was getting a sports car that was not as good as the Z4.

One of my picks of the day is a 2003 BMW Z4, which is my favorite Z4 color, Maldivian Blue, with a tan top and tan leather interior. It is powered by a 184-horsepower N52 2.5-liter I6 engine and is paired with a five-speed manual transmission. This combination gives the car a 0-60 mph time of 7 seconds and a top speed of 146 mph.

The Indiana dealer describes this Z4 as equipped with power power steering, power brakes, power windows, power locks, air conditioning, power roof, AM/FM/CD audio system and more.

Not only are these cars fun to drive, they are also extremely reliable. I purchased my personal Z4 in 2020 and used it from spring to fall. I even drove it on the Hagerty-sponsored Dawn Patrol, making up for the Dawn Patrol’s absence due to the cancellation of the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance. These cars are capable, faster than any MGB or TR6, and offer features such as effective air conditioning, a truly sealed top, and even heated seats.

The car has only 43,000 miles from new and looks reasonably clean. In the photos, the seller pointed out some paint scratches that I would address if I bought it. The craziest thing is, you can buy this Z4 for less money than a comparable 2003 Mazda Miata. To me, this is a total steal.

The asking price for this 2003 Z4 is a reasonable $15,900. If I were looking for a Z4 to match my Atlanta Blue Z3, I would seriously consider this example.

Click here to view the daily featured list on ClassicCars.com.