Used BMW Z4 for sale nearWatford

CarGurus expert rating: 3 out of 5
CarGurus user rating: 4.6 out of 5
Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 31.1%
Overall CarGurus rating:* 4.1 out of 5
Available Listings: Around 200
Average Price: Around £17,000

BMW Z4 (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 (2009-2016), known as the E89, is a sophisticated two-seater convertible that prioritises grand touring over track-day thrills. With its distinctive long bonnet, low-slung body, and folding metal hard-top roof, it delivers striking styling that continues to age well. 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 itself. The seating position is excellent, and build quality is exemplary throughout, with an elegant, curvaceous interior design.

The engine line-up is impressively broad, ranging from a 2.0-litre four-cylinder with 156bhp to a 3.0-litre six-cylinder twin-turbo with 340bhp, ensuring there's a power unit to suit all tastes and budgets. The most potent turbocharged variants are seriously quick, with the sDrive35iS reaching 62mph in just 4.8 seconds. Most buyers opted for automatic transmissions, with an eight-speed unit becoming available later in the generation. Fuel economy ranges from around 30mpg for powerful models to figures starting with a 'four' for less powerful variants. The Z4 received a facelift in 2013, featuring redesigned LED headlights and revised interior switchgear. Whilst the E89 isn't a sharp-edged driver's car, it excels as a refined, laid-back cruiser for those who value style and usability over chassis precision.

Best for: Buyers seeking a stylish, sophisticated convertible for relaxed grand touring, those wanting a broad choice of engines to match their priorities, and drivers who appreciate elegant design and quality build.

Not ideal for: Enthusiasts prioritising sharp handling and driver engagement, those concerned about the complexity of the folding hard-top mechanism, or buyers seeking a firm, composed ride quality.


Comparison vs Key Rivals



The Verdict

You should buy the Z4 if: You're seeking a stylish, sophisticated convertible for relaxed grand touring, want a broad choice of engines to match your priorities, or appreciate elegant design and quality build.

Consider alternatives if: You prioritise sharp handling and driver engagement, are concerned about the complexity of the folding hard-top mechanism, or seek a firm, composed ride quality.

Competitive Position: The BMW Z4 (2009-2016) is a compelling choice for buyers wanting a refined, laid-back convertible with striking styling and impressive build quality. Whilst it lacks the sharp handling of a Porsche Boxster and doesn't match rivals like the Audi TT for driver engagement, its broad engine range, elegant design, and sophisticated interior make it an excellent option for those prioritising style and usability. The twin-turbo variants offer serious performance, whilst lower-powered models provide better running costs. For the right buyer, the E89 Z4 remains an outstanding droptop cruiser that delivers on luxury and presence.

Read our full BMW Z4 Review

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