need advice on which z is best

06 3.0si with manual gearbox. Most fun car I've ever had and will keep it forever! I just saw the new Z4 and I don't like the new body style. I also think it doesn't come in a manual option! Most options are also 4 cylinders....with turbo they have power but felt and sounded laborious to get it. I'll keep and love my straight 6...."There's no replacement for displacement".

Originally Posted by chrisgagliastre

I am looking to purchase a z3 or z4 would like to know which year or years which are good to buy and whats good mileage? I was going to get a miata but think a z will be more fun and just as reliable if not more? Thanks for the help am posting this message in z3 forum to.

All I can tell you is that in 2012 I bought a 2002 2.5 liter straight 6 (great engine) z3 witch was the last year before BMW started to build the z4, and it has been a great car. I'm the third owner, and I bought with 24,500 miles. Now the car has 56,850 miles. What you have to be careful with is "people"

Originally Posted by chrisgagliastre

I am looking to purchase a z3 or z4 would like to know which year or years which are good to buy and whats good mileage? I was going to get a miata but think a z will be more fun and just as reliable if not more? Thanks for the help am posting this message in z3 forum to.

I own a 2007 Z-4 3.0i and love it. Test drove a new Miata before buying the Z in 2011 CPO from dealer. Friends with Z-3’s point to Z-4 improvements over it and the Miata in cockpit/trunk size and the all important suspension. The Z-4 is big time fun. As for mileage, look for 5K/ year. BMWCA classified could be good source of info and vehicles to buy. Good luck

I have an '06 Z4 3.0si 6spd coupe. Black with red interior. I drive it year round and love it. Rarely does a day go by where I don’t get a thumbs up from someone who sees it, or questions about it. No problems with the drive train, but I have had to replace suspension elements.

I’ve had many cars and this one is a keeper.

My 2006 Z4 just turned 10K (actual) I am putting it up for sale @ 15K
Well maintained - always garaged - all service records avaulable
Located in Wharton, Texas
[email protected]

I guess it comes down to this...

Do you want an inexpensive weekend toy that is just a joy to drive? Requires almost zero maintenance and is not so nice that you worry about it constantly? Miata

Do you want a bit more expensive weekend toy that is a super joy to drive with a bit more power and refinement, a bit more maintenance and less aftermarket support? Z4

I know nothing about Z3s other than they look nice

I started my roadster search with MRs/MR2 and Miatas. Somehow happened upon a 2007 Z4 that was perfect...

Steve

Won't let me delete, see next post.

'07 Z4 3.0si. Best car I've ever owned. Everyday there is a time when I realize I will get to drive my car in a bit and on those rare days when I'm not going anywhere I'm disappointed.


With my newly blacked out wheels

Originally Posted by Chilibadger

'07 Z4 3.0si. Best car I've ever owned. Everyday there is a time when I realize I will get to drive my car in a bit and on those rare days when I'm not going anywhere I'm disappointed.


With my newly blacked out wheels

I like the way you blacked out the 108's and kept the bolts chromed.

Originally Posted by Migizi

I like the way you blacked out the 108's and kept the bolts chromed.

Thanks! I posted how I did it with lots of pics, see my post: Refinished my 108 wheels.

Originally Posted by keeton

I have had my '07 3.0si for almost 11 years now and while it is a much better overall vehicle (e.g. long trips in the MIatas were excruciating) and certainly more powerful and comfortable, it's just not as tossable as the Miatas were.

Interesting. My 3.0Si has the M-sport suspension and I don't think I could tolerate a long trip due to the harsh ride. Can't imagine a Miata being any worse but then, I've never driven one.

Originally Posted by lmacmil

Interesting. My 3.0Si has the M-sport suspension and I don't think I could tolerate a long trip due to the harsh ride. Can't imagine a Miata being any worse but then, I've never driven one.

Miata actually has a pretty forgiving ride, it is the narrow seats that murder your back on a long trip. Also, despite the tiny trunk in the softtop Miata, there is space on the package shelf behind the seats to pack extra stuff, not possible on the Z4.

Originally Posted by lmacmil

Interesting. My 3.0Si has the M-sport suspension and I don't think I could tolerate a long trip due to the harsh ride. Can't imagine a Miata being any worse but then, I've never driven one.

I have the same set up and I've done several long trips in it. Always surprised how nice it is to travel in. Its not a 3 series but it travels well in my opinion.

Originally Posted by Chilibadger

I have the same set up and I've done several long trips in it. Always surprised how nice it is to travel in. Its not a 3 series but it travels well in my opinion.

If my experience in Sarasota is typical of Florida roads, they are in a lot better shape than the roads in Indiana and Michigan. I agree that on a smooth road, the Z4 ride is ok but it's hard to find a smooth road where I live!

Originally Posted by lmacmil

If my experience in Sarasota is typical of Florida roads, they are in a lot better shape than the roads in Indiana and Michigan. I agree that on a smooth road, the Z4 ride is ok but it's hard to find a smooth road where I live!

Lol, I actually had a sentence written on the better roads in Florida but wasn't sure where you were from and deleted it. Its tough on potholes, repaired or otherwise, for sure!

Originally Posted by janole

06-08 z4 3.0si

I agree. Most of the “bugs” worked out and relatively easy to work on.