2006 BMW Z4 3.0i
The 2006 BMW Z4 3.0i is a roadster. It has a 3.0-litre six-cylinder engine producing 215 hp (160 kW), with a 6-speed automatic and rear-wheel drive. 0–60 mph takes 5.7 seconds and top speed is 130 mph (209 km/h).
ABOUT THE 2006 BMW Z4 3.0I
The 2006 BMW Z4 3.0i is the facelifted first-generation Z4 roadster (E85). For 2006 it switched to BMW’s new N52 3.0-litre inline-six, with a magnesium-aluminium block, rated at 215 hp and 185 lb-ft, and it drives the rear wheels. This entry covers the version with the six-speed automatic; a six-speed manual was standard.
What changed for 2006
The 2006 model year brought the Z4’s mid-life update. Revised front and rear lights and reshaped bumpers arrived, and the old five-speed automatic was replaced by a six-speed unit. The range was reorganised around the 3.0i and the stronger 255 hp 3.0si, with the new Z4 M Roadster at the top. In the US the 3.0i became the entry point, as the 2.5-litre model was no longer offered.
Where it sits
The 3.0i is the softer, slightly more economical choice in the facelifted line-up. It shares the 3.0si’s chassis and long-bonnet proportions but does without its higher-output engine tuning, and it suits relaxed top-down driving rather than outright pace.
Buying one today
Well-known N52 weak points include the electric water pump and thermostat, plus oil leaks from the valve-cover and oil-filter-housing gaskets. The Z4’s electric power-steering column is another commonly reported failure. On cars with the power hood, check the roof’s hydraulic system for leaks and slow operation.
Rivals
Alternatives in 2006 included the Porsche Boxster, Honda S2000, Mercedes-Benz SLK280 and Nissan 350Z Roadster.
Written by CarDetails.org. Last reviewed October 31, 2026.
SPECS
| Make | BMW | Model | Z4 3.0i |
|---|---|---|---|
| Year | 2006 | Version / Trim | BMW 2006 Z4 3.0i |
| Body Style | Roadster | Doors | 2 |
| Seats | 2 | Ext. Colour | Alpine White, Jet Black, Black Sapphire Metallic, Titanium Silver Metallic, Silver Gray Metallic, Sterling Gray Metallic, Toledo Blue Metallic, Maya Blue Metallic, Monaco Blue Metallic, Bright Red |
| Steering | LHD / RHD | Manufactured In | Germany |
| Drive | Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD) | Transmission | Automatic (S6) |
| Engine | 3.0L 6-cyl | Engine Size | 3,000 cc |
| Power | 215 hp / 160 kW | Torque | 250 Nm / 185 lb-ft |
| 0–60 mph (0–97 km/h) | 5.7 sec | Top Speed | 130 mph (209 km/h) |
| Fuel Economy | 18 mpg city / 27 mpg hwy | ||
| Wheelbase | 2,495 mm | Kerb Weight | 1,395 kg (3,075 lb) |
HOW IT COMPARES WITH OTHER 2006 ROADSTERS
Compared with other 2006 roadsters in our database, its 215 hp is 16% less than the average 2006 roadster (257 hp).
| 2006 BMW Z4 3.0i | Average 2006 roadsters | Difference | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Power | 215 hp | 257 hp (5 cars) | -16% |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 282 Nm (5 cars) | -11% |
| 0–60 mph | 5.7 s | 5.6 s (5 cars) | +1% |
| Top speed | 130 mph | 139 mph (5 cars) | -6% |
| Kerb weight | 1,395 kg | 1,366 kg (6 cars) | +2% |
| Engine size | 3,000 cc | 2,950 cc (6 cars) | +2% |
Averages are calculated from all cars of the same model year and body type in the CarDetails.org database that have the figure listed. For 0–60 mph, a negative difference means quicker.
CLOSEST RIVALS
Other 2006 roadsters with similar power to the 2006 BMW Z4 3.0i.
| Car | Power | 0–60 mph | Kerb weight |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2006 BMW Z4 3.0i | 215 hp | 5.7 s | 1,395 kg |
| 2006 Audi TT Roadster | 180 hp | 5.9 s | 1,285 kg |