The BMW Z4 (E89) 30i sDrive Steptronic, produced from 2009 to 2011, represented a significant step forward for BMW’s roadster lineage. This variant occupied a mid-range position within the E89 Z4 lineup, offering a balance between performance and comfort. It was positioned above the 23i and 28i models, and below the high-performance 35i and 35is versions. The E89 generation marked a departure from the previous Z4 (E85) with its retractable hardtop, aiming to provide a more refined and secure driving experience. The 30i, with its naturally aspirated inline-six engine and six-speed automatic transmission, catered to drivers seeking a sporty yet accessible roadster.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | BMW |
| Model | Z4 |
| Generation | Z4 (E89) |
| Type (Engine) | 30i (258 Hp) sDrive Steptronic |
| Start of production | 2009 |
| End of production | 2011 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Roadster |
| Seats | 2 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban (NEDC) | 11.9 l/100 km (19.8 US mpg, 23.7 UK mpg, 8.4 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban (NEDC) | 6.2 l/100 km (37.9 US mpg, 45.6 UK mpg, 16.1 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined (NEDC) | 8.3 l/100 km (28.3 US mpg, 34 UK mpg, 12 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (NEDC) | 195 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 6.1 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 6.1 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 5.8 sec |
| Maximum speed | 250 km/h (155.34 mph), Electronically limited |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 5.5 kg/Hp, 180.4 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.6 kg/Nm, 216.8 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 258 Hp @ 6600 rpm |
| Torque | 310 Nm @ 2600-3000 rpm (228.64 lb.-ft. @ 2600-3000 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 | VALVETRONIC, Double-VANOS |
| Engine oil capacity | 6.5 l (6.87 US qt | 5.72 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 8.5 l (8.98 US qt | 7.48 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1430 kg (3152.61 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1760 kg (3880.14 lbs.) |
| Max load | 330 kg (727.53 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 | 1559 mm (61.38 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 130 mm (5.12 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.34 |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 10.7 m (35.1 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the rear wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, automatic transmission Steptronic |
| Front suspension | Spring Strut, Transverse stabilizer |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link spring suspension with stabilizer |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs, 330×34 mm |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs, 300×20 mm |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | Front wheel tires: 225/45 R17; 225/40 R18 Rear wheel tires: 225/45 R17; 255/40 R17; 255/35 R18 |
| Wheel rims size | Front wheel rims: 8J x 17; 8J x 18 Rear wheel rims: 8J x 17; 8.5J x 17; 8.5J x 18 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Z4 30i is the N52B30A, a 3.0-liter inline-six cylinder engine. This engine is a naturally aspirated powerplant known for its smooth power delivery and responsiveness. It utilizes BMW’s VALVETRONIC technology, a variable valve lift system, and Double-VANOS variable valve timing, optimizing engine efficiency and performance across the rev range. Fuel is delivered via multi-port fuel injection. The engine produces 258 horsepower at 6600 rpm and 310 Nm (228.64 lb-ft) of torque between 2600 and 3000 rpm. Paired with the engine is a six-speed Steptronic automatic transmission. This transmission offers both fully automatic operation and the ability for the driver to manually shift gears, providing a degree of control. The transmission’s gear ratios are tuned for a balance of acceleration and fuel economy.
Driving Characteristics
The Z4 30i sDrive Steptronic delivers a refined and engaging driving experience. While not as overtly sporty as the 35i models, the 30i offers ample power for spirited driving. The automatic transmission provides smooth and quick shifts, although some enthusiasts prefer the more direct engagement of a manual gearbox. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph takes approximately 5.8 seconds. The inline-six engine provides a linear power delivery, making it easy to modulate throttle and maintain control. The rear-wheel drive configuration contributes to a balanced chassis and predictable handling. Compared to the 28i, the 30i offers a noticeable increase in power and torque, resulting in quicker acceleration and more confident passing maneuvers. However, it lacks the outright performance of the turbocharged 35i.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Z4 30i sDrive Steptronic came standard with a respectable array of features. Interior appointments typically included leather upholstery, power-adjustable seats, and automatic climate control. Standard exterior features included alloy wheels, a retractable hardtop, and xenon headlights. Optional extras included features like a premium sound system, navigation system, sport seats, and various interior trim options. The 30i trim often served as a stepping stone for buyers wanting more performance than the base models but didn’t require the higher price tag of the 35i.
Chassis & Braking
The E89 Z4 utilizes a MacPherson strut front suspension and a multi-link rear suspension, providing a comfortable ride and responsive handling. The 30i model typically featured stabilizer bars to reduce body roll during cornering. Braking duties are handled by ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. The Z4 30i’s chassis is designed to balance rigidity with weight savings, contributing to its agile handling characteristics.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Z4 30i was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its refined engine, comfortable ride, and well-appointed interior. However, some reviewers noted that the automatic transmission could feel slightly hesitant at times. Compared to the 28i, the 30i offered a significant performance upgrade for a relatively modest price increase. Fuel economy was respectable for a roadster, averaging around 28.3 US mpg in combined driving. Reliability was generally good, although owners should be mindful of potential issues with the cooling system and oil leaks, common to BMW inline-six engines of this era.
Legacy
The Z4 E89 30i remains a desirable roadster in the used car market. The N52B30A engine is known for its durability and relatively straightforward maintenance. However, as with any older BMW, preventative maintenance is crucial. Regular oil changes, coolant flushes, and inspections of the cooling system are essential to ensure long-term reliability. The 30i’s balance of performance, comfort, and features makes it an appealing option for drivers seeking a classic roadster experience without the high cost of ownership associated with the more powerful 35i models. The retractable hardtop continues to be a significant selling point, offering the security and weather protection of a coupe with the open-air enjoyment of a convertible.
