Used BMW Z4 for sale near Southend-On-Sea

CarGurus expert rating: 4 out of 5
CarGurus user rating: 4.6 out of 5
Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 31.0%
Overall CarGurus rating:* 4.2 out of 5
Available Listings: Around 170
Average Price: Around £13,400

BMW Z4 (2019-present) Pros and Cons

Pros	Cons
More sporting than earlier Z4 generations, but still easy to live with	Not as engaging as a Porsche Boxster
Refined engines and a comfortable ride make long drives a pleasure	Relatively high running costs of M40i
Decent boot space for a sports car	No fixed-roof version (unless you count the Toyota Supra)

Quick Summary

The BMW Z4 (2019-present) is a rear-wheel drive, two-seat roadster with a fabric hood that represents a significant step forward in sportiness compared to earlier generations. Developed jointly with Toyota (sharing its platform with the GR Supra), this third-generation Z4 features a shorter wheelbase and wider tracks than its predecessor, making it intrinsically more agile and responsive. With a 281-litre boot, high-grade interior materials, and an intuitive iDrive infotainment system, the Z4 balances everyday usability with genuine performance credentials. Whilst it doesn't quite match the Porsche Boxster for steering precision and chassis balance, the gap between the two has never been narrower.

The Z4 comes in three main specifications: Sport, M Sport, and M Performance, with engine options including the sDrive20i (near 40mpg claimed), sDrive30i (38mpg claimed), and M40i (33mpg claimed). Insurance groups range from 30 to 38, with road tax varying from £150 for the sDrive20i to £475 for other models. The car delivers a refined driving experience with good wind noise suppression, a comfortable ride, and plenty of standard equipment. Running costs are reasonable for a performance car, though the M40i variant is more expensive to maintain and insure. Buyers can spread servicing costs at £25 per month over 36 months.

Best for: Drivers seeking a refined, usable sports car that's easier to live with daily than a Porsche Boxster, those who value comfort and equipment alongside performance, and buyers wanting a two-seat roadster with practical boot space.

Not ideal for: Enthusiasts prioritising the most engaging driving dynamics (the Boxster remains superior), those seeking the lowest running costs, or buyers wanting a fixed-roof convertible option.


Comparison vs Key Rivals



The Verdict

You should buy the Z4 if: You seek a refined, usable sports car that's easier to live with daily than a Porsche Boxster, value comfort and equipment alongside performance, or want a two-seat roadster with practical boot space.

Consider alternatives if: You prioritise the most engaging driving dynamics, seek the lowest running costs, or require a fixed-roof convertible option.

Competitive Position: The BMW Z4 (2019-present) occupies a compelling middle ground in the premium roadster segment. Whilst the Porsche 718 Boxster remains the ultimate driving experience with superior steering precision and chassis balance, the Z4 closes the gap significantly and offers greater everyday usability, refinement, and practicality. The Audi TT Mk3 provides an alternative with strong user ratings, whilst the Mercedes-Benz SLC, despite excellent user feedback, lags behind in expert assessment. For buyers wanting a sports car that doesn't compromise on comfort, equipment, or daily drivability, the Z4 represents an excellent choice that balances performance with real-world practicality.

Read our full BMW Z4 Review

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