BMW Forum - BimmerFest BMW Forums banner

S35i - How fun to drive is it?

2.4K views 6 replies 5 participants last post by  surfwooder  
#1 ·
Dear Bimmers,
I'm considering to buy a Z4 S35i dct.
My current vehicle is a 325 E46 and I've had several km with E85s.

I know this engine is a blast, however I'm a bit confused regarding how fun to drive the E89 is.
I've read numerous negative comments about how heavy the car is, how 'bad' it is vs the E85 etc etc
My big question is since the weight is not much more than a current M model (M2, M4) the huge difference vs these cars in terms of driving dynamics is different suspension, limited slip diff or what?

Thank you in advance.
 
#2 ·
I had one with DCT for a week. I thought the transmission was amazing. If you have to have an automatic, it is my choice. Much more space than our Z3M. Overall, great car.
 
  • Like
Reactions: Zed_
#4 ·
Expand your search. I purchased Bella in Vancouver, sight unseen. It is a 2012 E89 S drive 35iS twin turbo with the M performance package. I found in my search cars in Winnipeg, Lethbridge and Vancouver so expand where you are searching now. PS: the cars performance is amazing!
 
#7 ·
The E89 Z4 is a absolute blast to drive. I decided to get rid of my old time friend a E36 328IC, it was a 97 and it was a great car for its time. I moved to New Hampshire, with all it 2 lane country roads the stiff curves, up and down all sorts of grades, and of course few Interstates. My Z takes the roads like a snake, has all the power I'll ever need to enter a Interstate. Keep in mind the Z4 is a fast car, and will sit you deeply in seat from the get go. For a meek driver, it can be a handful. If you have a sport wheel, try pressing the Sport button on the consol and select Sport 2, this will actuate the wheels paddle shifters. You will find there is no Bentley Manual for this car, so every bit of repair info you find, keep for future reference. Plus, Facebook has several "groups" for the Z4. During Winter months, I trailer my Z South to Gulfport, Ms. Driving along the beach, with the top down, is a real blast. In New Hampshire, driving top down is a all Summer affair. Also, if you like Sirius Satellite Radio, make sure it is included on the radio, and not just wired for Sat Radio. It is a real bear to install it if the radio does not support it. Good Luck, enjoy your Z