Model Lineup
There are two different 2009 BMW Z4 Roadster models: Z4 sDrive30i and Z4 sDrive35i. The “30” in the nomenclature refers to models with the normally aspirated 3.0-liter 6-cylinder powerplant, while the “35” distinguishes the 3.0-liter, twin-turbo 6-cylinder models. The Z4 sDrive30i is available with either a manual 6-speed transmission or a 6-speed automatic transmission. The more powerful Z4 sDrive35i may be optioned with a 6-speed manual or a 7-speed dual-clutch sport automatic transmission.
Hardware
There are two 6-cylinder engines offered in the 2009 BMW Z4 Roadster. While each displaces 3.0 liters, the powerplants are only remotely related. The Z4 sDrive30i features a magnesium/aluminum 3.0-liter, inline 6-cylinder engine rated at 255 hp at 6600 rpm and 220 lb.-ft. of torque at 2600 rpm. It is available with a 6-speed manual transmission, or a 6-speed Steptronic automatic transmission with shift paddles. According to BMW, the Z4 sDrive30i sprints to 60 mph in 5.6 seconds with a 6-speed manual transmission (6.0 seconds with the automatic).
The performance-oriented Z4 sDrive35i features an all-aluminum (with cast iron cylinder liners) 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged powerplant with direct fuel injection. It is rated at 300 hp at 5800 rpm and 300 lb.-ft. of torque at 1400 rpm. According to BMW, the Z4 sDrive35i will hit 60 mph in just 5.1 seconds with the standard 6-speed manual transmission. Opt for the electronically controlled 7-speed dual-clutch automatic (“Sport Auto 7-Speed”) with shift paddles and the Z4 will rocket to 60 mph in 5 seconds flat. All Z4 models without the optional Sport package are electronically limited to 130 mph (the limit is bumped to 150 mph on vehicles equipped with the Sport package).
The rear-wheel-drive 2009 BMW Z4 features a lightweight independent aluminum suspension on all four corners (an Adaptive M Suspension with electronic damping control is optional). An electric power steering system enhances precision while reducing fuel consumption, BMW says, also claiming that the new high-performance brakes reduce stopping distances and slow pad wear. The Z4 is also the first car in its segment to offer an electric parking brake activated by a switch in the center console, according to BMW.
