Z4 (E85)

The BMW E85 Z4, launched in 2002, replaced the Z3 with a roadster that was more serious in its sporting intentions and more dramatic in its visual impact. Designed by Anders Warming under the direction of Chris Bangle, the Z4 featured the flame surfacing design language that was transforming BMW's entire lineup. The long hood, short deck proportions, and sharply creased bodywork created a visual drama that was a significant departure from the Z3's softer, more retro-inspired aesthetic.

The Z4 was engineered on an entirely new platform that addressed the Z3's most significant dynamic shortcoming — structural rigidity. The E85 chassis was substantially stiffer than the Z3's, resulting in more precise handling, better body control, and a more connected driving experience. The suspension was a new design with double-joint MacPherson struts at the front and a multi-link setup at the rear, offering more sophisticated kinematics than the Z3's semi-trailing arm rear suspension.

Engine options ranged from the 2.0-liter four-cylinder in the Z4 2.0i to the 3.2-liter S54 inline-six in the Z4 M, which produced 343 horsepower. Between these extremes sat the popular 2.5-liter and 3.0-liter inline-six models, with the 3.0si delivering 265 horsepower from BMW's new N52 magnesium-block engine. A coupe variant (E86) was added in 2006, offering increased rigidity and a more practical hatchback body style.

The Z4 sold nearly 200,000 units across roadster and coupe variants during its six-year production run. While it never achieved quite the cultural impact of the Z3 — which had benefited enormously from its James Bond association — the Z4 was the more accomplished driving machine and was taken more seriously by enthusiasts and the automotive press. The Z4 M roadster and coupe, in particular, are highly regarded as some of the finest open-top driving experiences BMW has produced, with the S54 engine's 8,000 rpm redline providing a fitting soundtrack to the car's precise and engaging handling.