BMW Announces Prices for New 2003 Z4 Roadster
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WOODCLIFF LAKE, N.J., Sept. 19, 2002 -- BMW released prices for the all-new 2003 Z4 roadster, the direct successor to the Z3 roadster that won customers hearts and souls, and virtually created the premium roadster segment. The Z4 roadster 2.5i will retail for $33,795 and the Z4 roadster 3.0i for $40,945 including destination and handling.
The Z4 roadster will be available in two models, both featuring BMW's renowned in-line sixes; the Z4 roadster 2.5i with the 2.5L, 184-horsepower powerplant, and the Z4 roadster 3.0i featuring the 3.0L, 225-horsepower engine. The Z4 2.5i will accelerate from 0-60 mph in 7.1 seconds with the standard 5-speed manual transmission (7.2 with automatic); the Z4 3.0i needs just 5.9 seconds using the standard 6-speed manual(1)(6.0 with automatic). The optional automatic transmission for both models is a 5-speed STEPTRONIC automatic.
Both versions come standard with a host of advanced features for improved handling: Vehicle Speed Sensitive Electric Power Steering, Dynamic Stability Control, Dynamic Traction Control, electronic brake proportioning, ABS and cornering/avoidance-stability enhancement. Also included are run-flat tires with flat tire monitor on 17-inch alloy wheels on the Z4 3.0i (18 inch with optional sport package) and 16-inch (17-inch with optional sport package) on the Z4 2.5i. These features, combined with the Z4's wide track, extremely low center of gravity and optimum 50:50 weight distribution, yield outstanding agility and handling.
The fully lined softtop features a heated glass rear window.
A 10-speaker AM/FM/CD audio system with Radio Data System is standard in the Z4 2.5i and a Premium audio system with upgraded audio power, Carver Technology and 10 audiophile-quality speakers with two subwoofers is standard in the Z4 3.0i, and optional in the Z4 2.5i.
Other options available at extra cost include a DVD-based navigation system with 16:9 display which retracts into the dashboard.
These prices are listed in detail, along with all options, in the BMW PressClub website: www.press.bmwgroup.com. Additionally, prices and options for the full range of 2003 models are also available at the same location.
BMW Release
BMW's new premium two-seater features a fresh new design and all-new chassis.
The all-new BMW Z4 roadster marks another highlight in BMW's new design strategy, and sets new standards for premium roadsters. When its predecessor, the BMW Z3 roadster, was introduced in 1995 (as a '96 model), it captured people's attention — in particular with its public debut as James Bond's new company car in Goldeneye and virtually created the premium roadster segment. Its replacement is so completely revised that it will carry a new designation — BMW Z4.
The new Z4 is a modern interpretation of all the classic roadster features - a long and sweeping hood, a long wheelbase, short overhangs and a low seating position in a cockpit that is set back. The design of the car is all new and characterized by the intriguing interplay of convex and concave surfaces, hard edges and curves. This interplay of surfaces creates new transitions of light and shadow from every angle, giving the Z4 an eye-catching visual character.
The new body offers the roadster aficionado not only a spacious cockpit with a design that echoes the sophisticated nature of the exterior, it also boasts a large luggage compartment offering about nine cubic feet of space, which is large enough for two golf bags. The soft roof comes with a heated glass rear window and neatly folds down for storage. An integrated tonneau cover eliminates the need for an attachable boot. The available fully automatic top can be raised or lowered in about 10 seconds.
Available with a choice of two high-torque in-line sixes, the Z4 roadster 3.0i (225-horsepower) and the Z4 roadster 2.5i (184-horsepower) offer more than enough power to keep things interesting. The Z4 roadster 3.0i will be available with a choice of 6-speed manual or 5-speed STEPTRONIC automatic, while the Z4 roadster 2.5i offers a 5-speed manual or STEPTRONIC automatic. Next spring a Sequential Manual Gearbox (SMG) will be available in both models. The Z4's handling will establish new benchmarks. The suspension is a modified version of the highly acclaimed suspension from the 3 Series. Dynamic Drive Control (DDC), available as an option, features a “Sport” Button. It provides even more spontaneous acceleration and power at the touch of the gas pedal, quicker steering, as well as an even more aggressive shifting program for the five-speed automatic transmission.
The Z4's wide track, extremely low center of gravity, optimum 50:50 weight distribution and very precise electric power steering help give the new Z4 its outstanding agility. Fade-free high-performance brakes, standard Run-Flat tires and Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) with an on-demand traction mode contribute to outstanding safety in all driving situations.
Standard features of the new Z4 include a leather sports steering wheel, sport seats, a rollover safety system, and remote entry system. Options available at extra cost include a DVD-based navigation system with 16:9 display which retracts into the instrument panel and a premium sound system with Carver technology for powerful bass reproduction.
The BMW Z4 roadster will be available for sale in the US market this fall, then will make its appearance in Europe in spring 2003. As before, the new roadster will be built in Spartanburg, SC.
