BMW Z4 E85 2.5i (192 Hp)


Overall Rating

8.1 / 10
Safety N/A / 5
Not Rated
Engine 4.8 / 5
Value 4.0 / 5
Performance 4.2 / 5
Comfort 3.5 / 5
People\'s Opinion N/A / 5
Not Rated

BMW Z4:

The first generation of the BMW Z4 consists of the BMW E85 and BMW E86 sports cars. The E85/E86 generation was produced from 2002 to 2008. The E85/E86 replaced the Z3 and is the third model in the BMW Z Series. Initial models were in the roadster body style, with the coupé body style being added in 2006. In February 2009, the BMW Z4 began production as the successor to the E85/E86.
As was its Z3 predecessor, the E85/E86 was manufactured in Greer, South Carolina. The M model, the Z4 M, is powered by the S54 straight-six engine....(Read more on Wikipedia)

E85 Overview:

BMW Z4 (E85). With 245 Nm of torque, it offers ample pulling power. It has moderate fuel consumption (~10.4 l/100km). With a weight of 1335 kg, it falls in the mid‑range. Rear‑wheel drive offers dynamic handling and sporty feedback. Acceleration is good (0–100 km/h in 7 s). The top speed reaches 235 km/h. A two-seater convertible designed for open-top driving pleasure. Seating for 2 makes it ideal for daily use.

Safety Rating
Not rated
Euro NCAP Year Not tested
Adult Occupant N/A
Stars N/A
Expert Note:
The BMW Z4 E85 generation was not officially tested by Euro NCAP. However, it features standard safety equipment for its era, including multiple airbags and ABS.

2.5i (192 Hp) Verdict:

Rating 4 stars

Performance Verdict

A well-balanced engine offering spirited performance that feels engaging and responsive, a great middle ground.

Fuel Economy

Excellent balance of power and fuel efficiency, making it a very practical choice for varied driving.

Best Use Case: Enthusiast daily driving, mixed city and highway use, and drivers seeking a balance of performance and economy.

Pros and Cons:

Pros:

  • • Engaging driving dynamics and precise steering
  • • Iconic roadster styling and open-top experience
  • • Smooth and powerful inline-six engine options
  • • Good build quality and premium interior materials for its era
  • • Strong aftermarket support and enthusiast community

Cons:

  • • Firm ride quality, especially on rougher roads
  • • Limited practicality with only two seats and modest trunk space
  • • No official Euro NCAP safety rating
  • • Some common M54 engine issues (e.g., VANOS, cooling system)
  • • Interior can feel dated compared to modern cars

Specifications:

General:
Brand:BMW
Model:Z4
Generation:E85
Modification (Engine):2.5i (192 Hp)
Start of production:2002
End of production:2006
Powertrain Architecture:Internal Combustion engine
Body type:Roadster
Seats:2
Doors:2
Engine:
Power:192 Hp @ 6000 rpm.
Power per litre:77 Hp/l
Torque:245 Nm @ 3500 rpm.
Engine Model/Code:M54B25
Engine displacement:2494
Number of cylinders:6
Engine configuration:Inline
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
Coolant:8.3 l
Engine layout:Front, Longitudinal
Cylinder Bore:84 mm
Piston Stroke:75 mm
Compression ratio:10.5:1
Performance:
Fuel Type:Petrol (Gasoline)
Fuel consumption (economy) - urban:10.4 l/100 km
Fuel consumption (economy) - extra urban:5.7 l/100 km
Fuel consumption (economy) - combined:7.4 l/100 km
Emission standard:Euro 4
Acceleration 0 - 100 km/h:7 sec
Acceleration 0 - 62 mph:7 sec
Maximum speed:235 km/h
Weight-to-power ratio:7 kg/Hp, 143.8 Hp/tonne
Weight-to-torque ratio:5.4 kg/Nm, 183.5 Nm/tonne
Acceleration 0 - 60 mph:6.7 sec
Space:
Kerb Weight:1335
Max. weight:1560
Max load:225
Trunk (boot) space - maximum:260 l
Trunk (boot) space - minimum:240 l
Fuel tank capacity:55 l
Size:
Length:4091 mm
Width:1781 mm
Height:1299 mm
Wheelbase:2495 mm
Front track:1473 mm
Rear (Back) track:1523 mm
Minimum turning circle (turning diameter):9.8 m
Powertrain:
Drivetrain ArchitectureThe Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the rear wheels of the vehicle.
Drive wheelRear wheel drive
Number of gears6
Transmission typeManual
Front brakesVentilated discs
Rear brakesVentilated discs
Assisting systemsABS (Anti-lock braking system)
Steering typeSteering rack and pinion
Power steeringElectric Steering
Tires size225/50 R16
Wheel rims size7J x 16
Front suspensionSpring Strut
Rear suspensionCoil spring

Every driver has a story. What’s yours with the BMW Z4?