2006 BMW Z4 3.0si
The 2006 BMW Z4 3.0si is a roadster. It has a 3.0-litre six-cylinder engine producing 255 hp (190 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 3.0SI
The 2006 BMW Z4 3.0si is the more powerful six-cylinder version of the facelifted first-generation Z4 (E85) roadster. It uses the new 3.0-litre N52 inline-six with 255 hp and 220 lb-ft, driving the rear wheels. This entry covers the version with the six-speed automatic; a six-speed manual was also offered.
What changed for 2006
The 2006 model year brought a mid-life update to the Z4 with revised front and rear styling and a new engine line-up. The 2.5i and 3.0i were replaced by a 215 hp 3.0i and the 255 hp 3.0si, both using BMW’s N52 engine with a magnesium-aluminium block. For 2006 the Z4 M Roadster also joined the range, while the fixed-roof Z4 Coupe followed later. The car continued to be built in Spartanburg, South Carolina.
Driving character
The 3.0si is noticeably quicker than the earlier models, with a free-revving engine that suits the car’s sporting intent. It retains electric power steering and standard run-flat tyres, and the two-seat cabin is set well back in the chassis. The power-operated soft top folds quickly.
Buying one today
Known weak points include the electric power steering unit, roof mechanism faults and water leaks. N52 issues such as electric water pump and thermostat failure and oil filter housing gasket leaks are also commonly reported.
Rivals
The 3.0si competed with the Porsche Boxster, Honda S2000, Nissan 350Z Roadster and Mercedes-Benz SLK 350.
Written by CarDetails.org. Last reviewed October 31, 2026.
SPECS
| Make | BMW | Model | Z4 3.0si |
|---|---|---|---|
| Year | 2006 | Version / Trim | BMW 2006 Z4 3.0si |
| 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 | United States |
| Drive | Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD) | Transmission | Automatic (S6) |
| Engine | 3.0L 6-cyl | Engine Size | 3,000 cc |
| Power | 255 hp / 190 kW | Torque | 300 Nm / 220 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 255 hp is close to the average for a 2006 roadster (257 hp).
| 2006 BMW Z4 3.0si | Average 2006 roadsters | Difference | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Power | 255 hp | 257 hp (5 cars) | -1% |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 282 Nm (5 cars) | +7% |
| 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 3.0si.
| Car | Power | 0–60 mph | Kerb weight |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2006 BMW Z4 3.0si | 255 hp | 5.7 s | 1,395 kg |
| 2006 Nissan 350z Roadster | 306 hp | 5.1 s | 1,440 kg |