Used BMW Z4 for sale nearSaffron Walden

CarGurus expert rating: 3 out of 5
CarGurus user rating: 4.6 out of 5
Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 30.6%
Overall CarGurus rating:* 4.1 out of 5
Available Listings: Around 170
Average Price: Around £16,000

BMW Z4 E89 (2009-2016) Pros and Cons

Pros	Cons
Elegant looks are ageing well	Not as sharp to drive as it should be
Wide range of engines to suit different priorities and pockets	Folding metal hard-top adds weight and complexity
Excellent iDrive infotainment system was fitted to many models	The ride is brittle

Quick Summary

The BMW Z4 E89 (2009-2016) is an elegant two-seater convertible that prioritises style and cruising comfort over sharp driving dynamics. With its distinctive long bonnet, low-slung body, and folding hardtop roof, it remains visually striking today. The car offers more interior space than many two-seater rivals, though practicality is compromised when the roof is lowered, as it folds into the boot. The seating position is excellent, and build quality is refined throughout, with BMW's iDrive infotainment system and Electronic Damper Control available on many models.

The engine range is impressively broad, from a 2.0-litre four-cylinder with 156bhp to a 3.0-litre twin-turbo six with 340bhp, ensuring options for all budgets and performance preferences. The most powerful variants are genuinely quick, with the sDrive35iS reaching 62mph in 4.8 seconds. Fuel economy ranges from around 30mpg for turbocharged models to over 40mpg for smaller engines. Running costs are significant, with insurance groups ranging from 34 to 43 and road tax between £205 and £330 annually. However, servicing costs can be reduced substantially by using independent BMW specialists rather than official dealers.

Best for: Buyers seeking a stylish, comfortable convertible for leisurely driving, those wanting a broad choice of engines, and drivers prioritising elegant design and refinement over sharp handling.

Not ideal for: Enthusiasts wanting a driver-focused sports car, buyers concerned about practicality with the roof down, or those seeking the precision of a Porsche Boxster.


Comparison vs Key Rivals



The Verdict

You should buy the Z4 if: You're seeking a stylish, comfortable convertible for leisurely driving, want a broad choice of engines, or prioritise elegant design and refinement over sharp handling.

Consider alternatives if: You're an enthusiast wanting a driver-focused sports car, concerned about practicality with the roof down, or seeking the precision of a Porsche Boxster.

Competitive Position: The BMW Z4 E89 is the consummate droptop cruiser, offering elegant styling that has aged well and a wide range of engines to suit all tastes. However, it lacks the sharp driving dynamics of the Porsche Boxster, which remains the superior choice for enthusiasts seeking precision and connection. The Z4's strength lies in its refinement, comfort, and broad appeal to buyers prioritising style and usability over outright performance. Whilst not the sharpest driver's car, it remains a compelling used purchase for the right buyer who values its distinctive character and accessible performance options.

Read our full BMW Z4 Review

*The Overall CarGurus rating: that informs these recommendations is based on CarGurus' proprietary market data from September 2026, CarGurus expert reviews, and CarGurus user reviews.