2021 BMW Z4 Price, Review, Pictures and Specs | CARHP
Powering the BMW Z4 is a 2 L in-line four-cylinder engine that is not the most exciting engine around. This is good for 254 hp and 294 lb.-ft. of torque. This is then mated to the same eight-speed automatic transmission from ZF that you will find most BMWs. The only powertrain option is a rear-wheel-drive as BMW intends to keep its roadster sporty.
2021 BMW Z4 Convertible engine bay
When it comes to acceleration, the car can do 0 to 60 mph in 5..2 seconds and a quarter-mile in just 12.3 seconds which is not blisteringly quick. However, unless you want a 3.8 second 0 to 60 mph time which is offered in the six-cylinder variant, this should do. Top speed is limited to 155 mph like most cars in its category.
Models
2021 BMW Z4 sDrive30i
2021 Jaguar F-Type P300 Convertible
2021 Mercedes-Benz C-Class C300 Cabriolet
2021 Porsche 718 Boxster
MSRP
$50,695
$62,000
$64,700
$53,950
Engine
2.0L Turbocharged Inline-4
2.0L Turbocharged Boxer-4
2.0L Turbocharged Inline-4
2.0L Turbocharged Inline-4
Drivetrain
RWD
RWD
RWD
RWD
Transmission
8-speed shiftable automatic
6-speed manual
8-speed shiftable automatic
9-speed shiftable automatic
Power
254 hp @ 5000 rpm
300 hp @ 6500 rpm
296 hp @ 5500 rpm
255 hp @ 5800 rpm
Torque
294 ft-lbs. @ 1500 rpm
280 ft-lbs. @ 1950 rpm
295 ft-lbs. @ 1500 rpm
273 ft-lbs. @ 1800 rpm
0-60 (seconds)
5.2
4.6
4.7
4.6
Quarter-Mile (seconds)
12.3
12.6
13.6
12.5
Top Speed (MPH)
155
177
155
155
One thing that really strikes the buyer about the BMW Z4 is that it is significantly cheaper than its rivals. But, the rivals also offer better performance in every aspect, 718 Boxster is only a little more powerful but does translate to much better 0 to 60 mph times. The Jaguar is the leader in terms of horsepower but the Mercedes is the leader in terms of torque. When it comes to real-world acceleration, the Jaguar and the Porsche are the best.
How well does the 2021 BMW Z4 handle?
It goes without saying that a sporty BMW handles extremely well. The BMW Z4 has an excellent grip and sublime control at the limit. It is also quite small in size so remains extremely playful. The 30i trim level has the suspension at its softest setting but still provides very engaging driving dynamics. One can opt for the dynamic handling package or the M sport kit to have better suspension, differential, tires, and so on.
2021 BMW Z4 Convertible driving view
The ride is also pretty nice and comfortable. The steering is one of the best electronic power steering units that we have. It doesn’t give the best feedback but is very direct and has a very quick ratio. Overall it is extremely sporty in terms of handling but in a way that it is very usable on the street.
2021 BMW Z4 Braking Performance
Being a light 3281 pounds, braking performance is pretty much taken for granted in the BMW Z4. The 11.2-inch front rotors and 11 inch rear rotors are enough to bring the car to a halt from 60 mph in just 105 feet which is very impressive. Equipped the M sport brakes and this distance drops down even further.
Models
2021 BMW Z4 sDrive30i
2021 Jaguar F-Type P300 Convertible
2021 Mercedes-Benz C-Class C300 Cabriolet
2021 Porsche 718 Boxster
Brake Rotors: Front (inches)
11.2
13
14
14.2
Brake Rotors: Rear (inches)
11
11.9
12.8
12.6
Curb Weight (lbs)
3287
3021
3843
3836
60-0 (feet)
105
99
101
105
As we have observed before, the braking performance of the BMW is quite impressive. However, the Jaguar simply blows the competition out of the water with its 99 feet braking distance from 60 mph. This is not just impressive but even beats several supercars. The Mercedes also has very impressive brakes.
