The second generation Z4 (E89) was announced in 2008 and unveiled in 2009. Long gone was the folding canvas roof of the convertible and the concept of a coupe, this time its a coupe-convertible with retracting hard top.

Exterior styling by Juliane Blasi, and a completely overhauled interior by Nadya Arnaout. The new BMW Z4 takes on the classic look of the roadster in modern, flowing lines. The car’s proportions are borne out by the long and low-slung engine compartment lid, short overhangs, the long wheelbase and large wheels as well as the low seating position near the rear axle.

Compared to the previous generation Z4 the vehicle is longer (148mm), wider (9mm) and is significantly heavier (adding between 150 and 235kgs). The E89 is now built in Regensburg, and not the Spartanburg manufacturing facility in the US.

A two piece, electro-hydrolic retractable hard top in lightweight aluminium shell can be folded up or down in 20 seconds. Unlike other folding hard tops, not all of the boot space is taken up by the roof. 310 litre capacity when up, and 180 litres when folded down.

Fitted as standard is a 6 speed manual gearbox, with a 6 speed steptronic automatic as an option. The sDrive 35i gets a new 7 speed double-clutch gearbox. All E89 models get ABS with emergency brake assist, Cornering Brake Control (CBC) and ESP with ASR. The handbrake is electro-mechanically controlled.

2013 BMW Z4 GTE

BMW also designed the BMW Z4 as a motorsport offering. An FIA FT3 specification car is available to private teams. The GT3 race car has a 4.4litre eight cylinder engine producing 508bhp.
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