The BMW Z4 (E89) 30i sDrive, produced from 2009 to 2011, represented a significant step forward for BMW’s roadster lineage. This generation Z4 moved away from the folding hardtop of its predecessor, opting for a retractable hardtop design that aimed to combine the security and refinement of a coupe with the open-air enjoyment of a convertible. The 30i variant, powered by the naturally aspirated N52B30A inline-six engine, occupied a middle ground in the E89 Z4 lineup, offering a balance of performance and relative affordability compared to the higher-output 35i model. It was primarily marketed towards enthusiasts seeking a sporty, premium roadster experience.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | BMW |
| Model | Z4 |
| Generation | Z4 (E89) |
| Type (Engine) | 30i (258 Hp) sDrive |
| Start of production | 2009 |
| End of production | 2011 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Roadster |
| Seats | 2 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 12.4 l/100 km (19 US mpg, 22.8 UK mpg, 8.1 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 6.2 l/100 km (37.9 US mpg, 45.6 UK mpg, 16.1 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 8.5 l/100 km (27.7 US mpg, 33.2 UK mpg, 11.8 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 5.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 5.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 5.5 sec |
| Maximum speed | 250 km/h (155.34 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 5.8 kg/Hp, 173.2 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.7 kg/Nm, 211.4 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 258 Hp @ 6600 rpm |
| Power per litre | 86.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 315 Nm @ 2500 rpm (232.33 lb.-ft. @ 2500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | N52B30A |
| Engine displacement | 2996 cm3 (182.83 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 85 mm (3.35 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 88 mm (3.46 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10.7:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 6.5 l (6.87 US qt | 5.72 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 8.2 l (8.66 US qt | 7.21 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1490 kg (3284.89 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1745 kg (3847.07 lbs.) |
| Max load | 255 kg (562.18 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 180 l (6.36 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 310 l (10.95 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 55 l (14.53 US gal | 12.1 UK gal) |
| Length | 4239 mm (166.89 in.) |
| Width | 1790 mm (70.47 in.) |
| Height | 1291 mm (50.83 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2496 mm (98.27 in.) |
| Front track | 1511 mm (59.49 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1537 mm (60.51 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 9.8 m (32.15 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Rear wheel drive |
| Drive wheel | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 6 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Spring Strut |
| Rear suspension | Coil spring |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 225/45 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 8J x 17 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Z4 30i sDrive is the N52B30A, a 3.0-liter inline-six engine. This engine is a descendant of BMW’s long and storied tradition of smooth, high-revving six-cylinder powerplants. The N52 featured a magnesium alloy engine block, aluminum cylinder head, and double VANOS (variable valve timing) on both intake and exhaust camshafts. Fuel delivery was handled by a multi-port fuel injection system. The engine produced 258 horsepower at 6600 rpm and 232 lb-ft of torque at 2500 rpm. The standard transmission was a six-speed manual, but a six-speed automatic transmission was also available, and was a popular choice for buyers prioritizing comfort and ease of use. The automatic transmission featured Sport and Manual shift modes, allowing for some driver control.
Driving Characteristics
The Z4 30i sDrive offered a balanced driving experience. While not as overtly aggressive as the 35i model, the 30i provided ample power for spirited driving on winding roads. The inline-six engine delivered a linear powerband, making it easy to modulate throttle and maintain control. The six-speed automatic transmission, while smooth, did introduce some efficiency loss compared to the manual. Gear changes were generally well-timed, but lacked the immediacy of a dual-clutch transmission. The rear-wheel-drive configuration contributed to a balanced chassis, and the relatively lightweight construction of the E89 Z4 helped to maintain agility. The suspension was tuned for a comfortable ride, but still provided adequate body control in corners.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Z4 30i sDrive came reasonably well-equipped as standard. Typical features included leatherette upholstery, automatic climate control, a power-retractable hardtop, and a basic audio system. Optional extras were plentiful, and included features such as premium leather upholstery, heated seats, navigation system, upgraded audio systems (including Harman Kardon), and parking sensors. Sport packages added features like sport seats, a sport suspension, and unique exterior styling elements. The interior design was driver-focused, with a relatively simple and intuitive layout.
Chassis & Braking
The E89 Z4 utilized a MacPherson strut front suspension and a multi-link rear suspension. This setup provided a good balance of ride comfort and handling precision. The 30i model typically featured ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. Anti-lock braking system (ABS) was standard. The steering was a rack-and-pinion system with electric power assistance, offering precise and responsive steering feel. The chassis was designed to be relatively stiff, minimizing body roll and enhancing handling.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Z4 30i sDrive was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its stylish design, comfortable interior, and engaging driving experience. However, some critics noted that the automatic transmission could feel a bit sluggish compared to the manual, and that the trunk space was somewhat limited with the top down. Compared to the 35i model, the 30i offered a more affordable entry point into the Z4 range, but at the expense of some performance. The 30i also offered better fuel economy than the 35i. Compared to competitors like the Porsche Boxster and Mercedes-Benz SLK, the Z4 30i offered a compelling combination of value, style, and performance.
Legacy
The N52B30A engine, found in the Z4 30i, is generally considered to be a reliable powerplant, provided it receives regular maintenance. Common issues include oil leaks from the valve cover gasket and occasional problems with the VANOS system. The six-speed automatic transmission is also generally reliable, but can require servicing over time. Today, the E89 Z4 30i sDrive represents a relatively affordable entry point into the BMW roadster world. Well-maintained examples are still sought after by enthusiasts who appreciate the combination of classic BMW styling, a smooth inline-six engine, and a comfortable driving experience. Its retractable hardtop continues to be a desirable feature, offering the convenience of a coupe with the open-air enjoyment of a convertible.
