Z Series

Model Overview

Here is a chronological history of the production models:

1. BMW Z1 (E30-based)
Production Years: 1989–1991

Significance: The first of the modern Z-series, conceived by the newly formed BMW Technik GmbH (a think-tank for new concepts). It was an innovation showcase.

Key Features: It was built on the E30 3 Series platform but featured a revolutionary body. It had unique vertically sliding doors that dropped down into the sills and easily removable plastic exterior panels. It featured the “Z-axle” multi-link rear suspension, a significant advancement for the company.

Production: A limited production run of 8,000 units, all left-hand drive.

2. BMW Z3 (E36/7/8)
Production Years: 1995–2002

Significance: The Z3 was the first modern mass-market roadster from BMW and the first BMW model to be built outside of Germany (in Spartanburg, South Carolina, USA). It gained immediate global recognition after being featured in the James Bond film GoldenEye.

Key Features: Initially available with four-cylinder engines, larger inline-six engines were soon introduced, including the high-performance Z3 M Roadster and the distinctive hatchback-style Z3 M Coupé (nicknamed the “Clown Shoe”). It was based on the E36 3 Series platform.

3. BMW Z8 (E52)
Production Years: 2000–2003

Significance: Designed as a styling exercise (initially the Z07 concept) to celebrate the classic 1950s BMW 507 roadster, the overwhelming positive reception led to its limited production run.

Key Features: A high-performance, exclusive luxury roadster featuring a 4.9L V8 engine shared with the contemporary E39 M5. It featured an all-aluminium chassis and body. Only 5,703 units were built. It was also featured as the official vehicle of James Bond in the movie The World Is Not Enough.

4. BMW Z4 (E85/E86)
Production Years: 2002–2008

Significance: The Z4 replaced the Z3 and represented a move toward a larger, more sophisticated roadster, featuring a stiffer chassis and more modern suspension (multi-link rear).

Key Features: The initial production model was the roadster (E85). A fixed-head Coupé version (E86) was introduced in 2006, along with the high-performance Z4 M Coupé and M Roadster, powered by the E46 M3’s S54 straight-six engine.

5. BMW Z4 (E89)
Production Years: 2009–2016

Significance: The second-generation Z4 consolidated the roadster and coupé into a single model by using a retractable hardtop roof, a departure from the previous Z-series soft-top and fixed-roof models.

Key Features: It featured a less polarizing design compared to its predecessor. The inclusion of the folding hardtop meant no separate Coupé version was offered. It was the first Z4 to be offered with a range of turbocharged engines.

6. BMW Z4 (G29)

Production Years: 2018-2026

Significance: The third-generation Z4 marked a return to a fabric soft-top. It was developed in collaboration with Toyota, which uses the same platform and many mechanical components for its fifth-generation Supra.

Key Features: Available with four-cylinder and straight-six turbocharged engines, including the range-topping M Performance model. It is wider, longer, and has a shorter wheelbase than the E89, emphasizing agile handling. A highly anticipated manual transmission option for the M40i variant was introduced for the 2025 model year in selected markets.