BMW Z4 E85
The ultimate expression of the E85 roadster, featuring the lightweight magnesium-block N52 engine.
- Power
- 265 bhp
- 0–60 mph
- 5.6 s
- Top speed
- 155 mph
- Est. value
- $9k–$24k
About the BMW Z4 E85
Introduced as part of the 2006 facelift (LCI), the 3.0si replaced the earlier 3.0i as the flagship non-M variant of the E85 Z4. It debuted the N52 engine, which utilised a magnesium-aluminium composite block and Valvetronic technology to produce significantly more power than its predecessor while weighing less. The E85 is noted for its 'flame surfacing' design by Anders Warming and a chassis that was significantly stiffer than the Z3 it replaced. Collectors value the 3.0si for offering a more balanced, daily-usable alternative to the Z4 M, retaining the classic naturally aspirated straight-six character.
BMW Z4 E85 specs
The BMW Z4 E85 produces 265 bhp (198 kW) and 315 Nm (232 lb-ft) of torque. It reaches 60 mph in 5.6 seconds and has a top speed of 155 mph (250 km/h).
| Make | BMW |
|---|---|
| Model | Z4 |
| Generation | E85 |
| Trim | 3.0si Roadster |
| Years | 2002–2008 |
| Type | Sports car |
| Body style | Roadster |
| Country | Germany |
| Original price | About $42,000 when new |
| Engine | 3.0-litre straight-six |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 2,996 cc (3.0 litres) |
| Induction | Naturally aspirated |
| Power | 265 bhp (198 kW) at 6,600 rpm |
| Torque | 315 Nm (232 lb-ft) |
| Redline | 7,000 rpm |
| 0–60 mph | 5.6 s |
| Top speed | 155 mph (250 km/h) |
| Transmission | 6-speed manual |
| Drivetrain | Rear-wheel drive |
| Weight | 1,310 kg (2,888 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 202 bhp per tonne |
Typical figures for the standard car; options, markets and model years vary. Where our specs come from
How much is a BMW Z4 E85 worth?
A typical BMW Z4 E85 is estimated to be worth $9,000 – $24,000 (about £6,700 – £18,000).
Its original price when new was about $42,000.
Values are directional estimates for a typical example, not appraisals. Condition, mileage, history and specification all change what a real car is worth. Pound figures use the exchange rate of 3 November 2026. How values are estimated
BMW Z4 E85 rarity in CarSpot
The BMW Z4 E85 is a Common card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 7 out of 100. Everyday cars you can spot on almost any street. A Common card is worth 10 XP.
Each model's tier starts from a 0–100 score based on its value plus its power or production numbers. Once enough players have spotted a model, how often it is spotted can move it up or down one tier. How CarSpot rarity works
Rarity is a collectible game mechanic, not an assessment of real-world scarcity or value.
BMW Z4 E85 fun facts
- The 3.0si's N52 engine was the first mass-production water-cooled engine to use a magnesium alloy for the engine block to save weight.
- The final first-generation Z4 to roll off the Spartanburg production line in August 2008 was a 3.0si Roadster finished in Space Grey.
- The E85 Z4's electric soft top was marketed at launch as the fastest-operating fully automatic roof in the world, taking less than 10 seconds to cycle.
