Smaller sports cars are a perfect fit for any driver with a soft spot for a compact, nimble, and engaging car. Add a convertible top to the recipe, like the 2023 BMW Z4 sDrive 30i does, and you get a car that's quite hard to resist. Now, almost all of the Z4s alternatives have those qualities, but why the Z4 sDrive 30i and not the Porsche 718 Cayman or any other? On paper, it promises the kind of agility and sense of speed that should embody BMW's "Ultimate Driving Machine" ethos. It appears to be the only modern BMW most likely to rekindle that long-standing reputation since most of its siblings are tailored more towards performance, only forgetting the driving experience. It can leave you wanting more in some aspects at the beginning, but you get used to some of its limitations, such as its performance, which we'll cover next.
A four-cylinder doesn't really mean the car is boring, especially if it weighs roughly 3,300 pounds and is turbocharged, sending 255 horsepower and nearly 300 lb.ft to the rear wheels like in the 2023 BMW Z4 sDrive. Sure, it would be more fun if you could get one with a manual transmission but BMW stopped making that an option starting in 2020. The only way to get a Z4 with a manual is to get previous model years or to buy the 2025 BMW Z4 M40i. Luckily, the 2023 Z4 sDrive30i gets the same engaging and responsive 8-speed automatic transmission as the Z4 M40i. 0-60 mph takes 5.1 seconds, and the top speed maxes at 155 mph. There was no option for an M Driver's package, but that top speed gives you enough playroom to test how fast the car can go.
The 2023 BMW Z4 sDrive 30i shows off its cabin best with the roof down, which you can lower at the push of a button in a few seconds. But don't expect it to lower as fast as a Cayman's soft top. When driving, the win deflector effectively minimizes buffering at higher speeds, ensuring a pleasant drive with the top down. Let's focus on the cabin's layout now. The seats are lined in leather, which extends to the dash, doors, and center console. The room is excellent for the two occupants that the cabin can accommodate, and the fittings are decent enough for a car that would have set you back roughly $55,000 if you bought one new.
In 2022, BMW introduced a refreshed version of the Z4, making the M Sport Package standard for the 2023 Z4 sDrive30i. This package features a trio of air intakes at the front, a design element shared with other M models, and it complements the updated kidney grille with its horizontal inner structure. The side intakes were also redesigned to enhance airflow in the wheel arches, reducing turbulence. Rounding out the M Sport package is a new set of 19-inch multi-spoke M wheels, specifically designed for the Z4, providing a better fit and aesthetic than the previous 18-inch wheels.
Circling back to the cabin, you get a 10.3-inch infotainment display with Apple CarPlay, navigation, SiriusXM, an automatic equalizer, and all other essentials. Unfortunately, Android Auto is unavailable, but you get Bluetooth Connectivity and an Aux input. Given that the front seats are the only ones you get, BMW made 12-way power adjustability, a memory function, and heating standard equipment. In the driver assists and safety features suite, you get electronic stability control, ABS, stability control, low tire pressure warning, active guard collision, a backup camera, and more.
A 2023 BMW Z4 sDrive 30i will set you back prices averaging its MSRP or slightly above, but it's common to find some units selling in the $40,000 to $50,000 range. Should you buy one? By all means. And if you're looking for a place to buy one, we guarantee you'll find something that suits your preferences in our BMW Z4 listings. Also, feel free to browse through our BMW listings and check out other options that might entice you.
The 2023 BMW Z4 sDrive 30i, despite not being the most thrilling option in its segment, delivers all that is expected of a roadster. Plus, it's fun to drive and luxurious, and it's not every day you see one compared to, say, a BMW 4 Series or 8 Series convertible. Exotic Car Trader creates an exclusive and safe way of buying and selling cars, eliminating the daunting experiences of private selling for buyers and sellers. Every vehicle listed on Exotic Car Trader goes through a private seller verification process, ensuring legitimacy for our buyers. Also, Exotic Car Trader's car buying process is well outlined, with all fees and packages providing our buyers with a seamless and inclusive experience. We can handle the escrow of funds at no additional cost to the buyer and seller, and we also provide trade-in and financing options for buyers. For transaction safety, our Transactions Team is world-class and equipped with industry fraud detection tools to ensure a safe and secure transaction. These are just some of the benefits you enjoy when buying or selling on Exotic Car Trader. Contact us for listing services or to buy a car on Exotic Car Trader today.
Exotic Car Trader is the fastest growing marketplace built specifically for automotive enthusiasts. Click below to learn how you can sell your car with us.
LEARN MORE