About time the e89 got some love?
Discussion
Having owned two R172 SLKs (including a 55) and two e89 Z4s (currently have a 23i), plus I've driven Cayman's and Boxster's, it really surprises me that the e89 is still scoffed at by petrolheads.
Whilst there is no doubt that the Porsche's are fantastic drivers cars, as a secondhand proposition they're very expensive compared to their direct competitors. As someone on a budget who wants a sports car to daily drive they've always been slightly out of reach compared to other cars I've looked at.
That brings me on to the SLKs. Again, good cars but the sloppy auto boxes let them down in my opinion. That being said, as a road car, something to enjoy at normal speeds on a daily basis there is nothing wrong with them. And the v8 in the 55 is more special than the equivalent Porsche's.
Lastly, you have the Z4. In my view, the perfect balance between the two. I love a folding hardtop (something to be missed on the new Z). The manual box is arguably more enjoyable than the Porsche's because of sensible ratios, plus the DCT box in the 35s aren't a million miles from the mid engined rivals. Engine and gearbox combinations are as about as good as they come. Yes, there are some on the limit dynamic downfalls, but who actually drives cars on the limit on the road? I like to drive quickly and I've never come unstuck and find the handling thoroughly enjoyable. Add that to a very nicely put together interior, plus what I feel is the better looking option out of the three and for a sensible budget I'm not sure you can get a more pleasurable 2 seater.
Oh and for those of you that say an mx5, I've owned one of these too. No doubt is the most fun on 4 wheels I've had. But to live with everyday, for me at least, it's the most compromised. Soft top leading to road noise, plus cramped interior just meant that I didn't look forward to driving it as much as the handling deserved.
Sorry for the ramble! Would be interested to hear others thoughts.
Whilst there is no doubt that the Porsche's are fantastic drivers cars, as a secondhand proposition they're very expensive compared to their direct competitors. As someone on a budget who wants a sports car to daily drive they've always been slightly out of reach compared to other cars I've looked at.
That brings me on to the SLKs. Again, good cars but the sloppy auto boxes let them down in my opinion. That being said, as a road car, something to enjoy at normal speeds on a daily basis there is nothing wrong with them. And the v8 in the 55 is more special than the equivalent Porsche's.
Lastly, you have the Z4. In my view, the perfect balance between the two. I love a folding hardtop (something to be missed on the new Z). The manual box is arguably more enjoyable than the Porsche's because of sensible ratios, plus the DCT box in the 35s aren't a million miles from the mid engined rivals. Engine and gearbox combinations are as about as good as they come. Yes, there are some on the limit dynamic downfalls, but who actually drives cars on the limit on the road? I like to drive quickly and I've never come unstuck and find the handling thoroughly enjoyable. Add that to a very nicely put together interior, plus what I feel is the better looking option out of the three and for a sensible budget I'm not sure you can get a more pleasurable 2 seater.
Oh and for those of you that say an mx5, I've owned one of these too. No doubt is the most fun on 4 wheels I've had. But to live with everyday, for me at least, it's the most compromised. Soft top leading to road noise, plus cramped interior just meant that I didn't look forward to driving it as much as the handling deserved.
Sorry for the ramble! Would be interested to hear others thoughts.
I had my Boxster in for an MOT last week, and an E89 20i rocked up. My first impressions were that it's a big car, confirmed with an E86 pulled up behind it. Anyhow, I got chatting to the owner, and he really rated the E89 - although he wished it were auto. But apart from that he was very happy indeed with it. Whilst I wouldn't consider one instead of the Boxster, I wouldn't rule one out when our 1 series comes up for renewal.
Customary picture...
Customary picture...
BFleming said:
I had my Boxster in for an MOT last week, and an E89 20i rocked up. My first impressions were that it's a big car, confirmed with an E86 pulled up behind it. Anyhow, I got chatting to the owner, and he really rated the E89 - although he wished it were auto. But apart from that he was very happy indeed with it. Whilst I wouldn't consider one instead of the Boxster, I wouldn't rule one out when our 1 series comes up for renewal.
What Boxster do you have if you don't mind me asking? Well I would absolutely recommend them as a daily driver. They are big in comparison to the E86, for sure, but the new G29 is a good size up again (although with a shorter wheelbase). If you were ever just looking for a nice cruiser to use day to day I would suggest a 28i with the ZF 8 speed.
Visually they are very spec dependent, here's mine:
In a similar train of thought - had 3 boxsters (986 2.7,3.2s and 987 2.7), and now a Z4 23i.
I'll be honest, the Z4 isn't a comparison for the 987 if you're looking for a pure sports car - however I felt with the Boxster you had to be at 9/10ths to get the most thrills out of it, and there were some days it felt a little too raw. I am a Porsche fanatic and any car with the Stuttgart crest is special.
I went for the Z4 when a couple big service bills were due on the Boxster, and the 1k a year up keep was getting a bit wearing - initially after getting it home I sat wit my head in my hands and wondered what i was thinking: the ride on 18"s at the rear was very crashy and it cornered like a comedy car when pushing on.
Thankfully discovered the rear springs had been fitted upside down (cracked replacements i'm guessing), and the tyres were run flats rear and budgets front (sure I checked them before buying!!) - swapping to some 19's with sticky Dunlop rubber and its a revelation! Fast A and B roads are a joy - its still not a lightweight, nimble sports car: but, as a GT that's really nice to be in it takes some beating - top down its wind buffet free and the 6 cylinder sounds awesome, even pops and crackles in sport+. The auto box is phenomenal - again in sport+ it holds to the redline with foot down changes.
Its gradually been sneaking into my affections over the last few months and I really adore it now - the looks are breathtaking in the metal (I actually hated them on release!) and it just does everything nicely and i can see it staying for a long time
I'll be honest, the Z4 isn't a comparison for the 987 if you're looking for a pure sports car - however I felt with the Boxster you had to be at 9/10ths to get the most thrills out of it, and there were some days it felt a little too raw. I am a Porsche fanatic and any car with the Stuttgart crest is special.
I went for the Z4 when a couple big service bills were due on the Boxster, and the 1k a year up keep was getting a bit wearing - initially after getting it home I sat wit my head in my hands and wondered what i was thinking: the ride on 18"s at the rear was very crashy and it cornered like a comedy car when pushing on.
Thankfully discovered the rear springs had been fitted upside down (cracked replacements i'm guessing), and the tyres were run flats rear and budgets front (sure I checked them before buying!!) - swapping to some 19's with sticky Dunlop rubber and its a revelation! Fast A and B roads are a joy - its still not a lightweight, nimble sports car: but, as a GT that's really nice to be in it takes some beating - top down its wind buffet free and the 6 cylinder sounds awesome, even pops and crackles in sport+. The auto box is phenomenal - again in sport+ it holds to the redline with foot down changes.
Its gradually been sneaking into my affections over the last few months and I really adore it now - the looks are breathtaking in the metal (I actually hated them on release!) and it just does everything nicely and i can see it staying for a long time
BFleming said:
luke1907 said:
What Boxster do you have if you don't mind me asking?
It's a 2000 2.7 manual. Great at what it does (sunny days & track days) but definitely not a daily given its age.If I were to buy an E89 it would be an auto and preferably have 6 cylinders.
Only thing worth noting is that 23i and 30i autos aren't the 8 speed boxes and are an older 6 speed which drains the torque slightly. An example is that the 30i auto is about equal to my 23i manual in out and out straight line performance, but if that doesn't bother you then they are nice and smooth to use. The 35i/is have the DCT which in my opinion is a much nicer box although can be a bit jerky at low speed (have owned a 35i previously).
Is worth having a go in a 28i before you buy to see what you think. Is a very underrated engine and if you are just looking for a daily driver it will be far more economical than the sixers.
scottp3000 said:
In a similar train of thought - had 3 boxsters (986 2.7,3.2s and 987 2.7), and now a Z4 23i.
I'll be honest, the Z4 isn't a comparison for the 987 if you're looking for a pure sports car - however I felt with the Boxster you had to be at 9/10ths to get the most thrills out of it, and there were some days it felt a little too raw. I am a Porsche fanatic and any car with the Stuttgart crest is special.
I went for the Z4 when a couple big service bills were due on the Boxster, and the 1k a year up keep was getting a bit wearing - initially after getting it home I sat wit my head in my hands and wondered what i was thinking: the ride on 18"s at the rear was very crashy and it cornered like a comedy car when pushing on.
Thankfully discovered the rear springs had been fitted upside down (cracked replacements i'm guessing), and the tyres were run flats rear and budgets front (sure I checked them before buying!!) - swapping to some 19's with sticky Dunlop rubber and its a revelation! Fast A and B roads are a joy - its still not a lightweight, nimble sports car: but, as a GT that's really nice to be in it takes some beating - top down its wind buffet free and the 6 cylinder sounds awesome, even pops and crackles in sport+. The auto box is phenomenal - again in sport+ it holds to the redline with foot down changes.
Its gradually been sneaking into my affections over the last few months and I really adore it now - the looks are breathtaking in the metal (I actually hated them on release!) and it just does everything nicely and i can see it staying for a long time
Is comforting to hear a previous Porsche owner say this. I've always lusted after a 987 Cayman, but didn't want to face the upkeep. I'll be honest, the Z4 isn't a comparison for the 987 if you're looking for a pure sports car - however I felt with the Boxster you had to be at 9/10ths to get the most thrills out of it, and there were some days it felt a little too raw. I am a Porsche fanatic and any car with the Stuttgart crest is special.
I went for the Z4 when a couple big service bills were due on the Boxster, and the 1k a year up keep was getting a bit wearing - initially after getting it home I sat wit my head in my hands and wondered what i was thinking: the ride on 18"s at the rear was very crashy and it cornered like a comedy car when pushing on.
Thankfully discovered the rear springs had been fitted upside down (cracked replacements i'm guessing), and the tyres were run flats rear and budgets front (sure I checked them before buying!!) - swapping to some 19's with sticky Dunlop rubber and its a revelation! Fast A and B roads are a joy - its still not a lightweight, nimble sports car: but, as a GT that's really nice to be in it takes some beating - top down its wind buffet free and the 6 cylinder sounds awesome, even pops and crackles in sport+. The auto box is phenomenal - again in sport+ it holds to the redline with foot down changes.
Its gradually been sneaking into my affections over the last few months and I really adore it now - the looks are breathtaking in the metal (I actually hated them on release!) and it just does everything nicely and i can see it staying for a long time
But yes, also a good point, the ride (and handling) is much better once the run flats are gone.
luke1907 said:
Only thing worth noting is that 23i and 30i autos aren't the 8 speed boxes and are an older 6 speed
That's good information. I have the ZF 8HP in my 525d and I love it.Are there any engines to avoid? I only ask as if there's a weak point, my wife will find it pretty quickly. She's always in test mode
Also any leaks from the roof at all?
I've had the E86 and much enjoyed. I've owned my 2.31 E89 for five years and I appreciate it even more now I've seen the latest model ( albeit I've seen very few on the road) I feel the E89 isn't appreciated enough but to me it's a great compromise. I also have a mk1mx5 as a classic and I m o a perfect combination
BFleming said:
luke1907 said:
Only thing worth noting is that 23i and 30i autos aren't the 8 speed boxes and are an older 6 speed
That's good information. I have the ZF 8HP in my 525d and I love it.Are there any engines to avoid? I only ask as if there's a weak point, my wife will find it pretty quickly. She's always in test mode
Also any leaks from the roof at all?
The roof seals can leak and there is an issue about potential water ingress into the boot. Worth checking whether the boot carpet is wet prior to any purchase. This can affect the roof motor. Plus the rear lights occasionally let water in and they can be £350 each to replace. One of the 19" wheel sets is prone to cracking (not the ones I have).
Those are the main things I am aware of. As long as the car has been looked after they can be very reliable.
luke1907 said:
The roof seals can leak and there is an issue about potential water ingress into the boot. Worth checking whether the boot carpet is wet prior to any purchase. This can affect the roof motor. Plus the rear lights occasionally let water in and they can be £350 each to replace.
That's probably my #1 concern with one of these to be honest. When looking for a car a few years ago on a wet day, we saw a VW EOS with an indoor swimming pool. Very off-putting. Back in 2007 we had an Astra Twintop from new, which didn't leak, and a 2008 Ford Focus CC, which did leak (not badly though).I googled a bit on N20 engines and it seems they are not immune to the timing/oil pump chain and guides failure. Also it seems to have the usual injectors leaking issues as well. Apparently much better from 2015 onwards. I would stick with the N52 engine for sure - and change oil at shorter intervals.
I really hated the E89 when it was first released because I loved the E86 and think it’s ages really really well. However over the years I’ve grown to quite like the later car to the point that I was tempted by one when opting out of my scheme.
That idea was dashed however when the most boring old bachelor at work had a midlife crisis and bought a really nice 35i.
That idea was dashed however when the most boring old bachelor at work had a midlife crisis and bought a really nice 35i.
BFleming said:
That's probably my #1 concern with one of these to be honest. When looking for a car a few years ago on a wet day, we saw a VW EOS with an indoor swimming pool. Very off-putting. Back in 2007 we had an Astra Twintop from new, which didn't leak, and a 2008 Ford Focus CC, which did leak (not badly though).
Whilst there is a risk of leakage I don't think it's that high. As long as the car has been looked after it should be fine. Any with defects out of the factory are likely to have been fixed by now as well. Just make sure you do a thorough check before buying and purchase with a warranty if that helps with piece of mind.
I've owned 2 Z4s for 3 years total and haven't had any issue with the seals to date.
I've had 2 E86s for the last 5 years and love them!
But I quite like the E89, and as I'm getting on now I may well consider one at some point. So it's growing on me.
By all accounts the E89 is a bit more "GT" than "Sports Car", unlike the E85/E86.
If you are considering any of them, a visit to "z4forum" is very helpful.
But I quite like the E89, and as I'm getting on now I may well consider one at some point. So it's growing on me.
By all accounts the E89 is a bit more "GT" than "Sports Car", unlike the E85/E86.
If you are considering any of them, a visit to "z4forum" is very helpful.
I've copied and pasted this from another thread I contributed to last month:
I'm on my third Z4, a 2010 E89 manual 30i M Sport. Previously had a supercharged E85 3.0i and a Z4M.
Z4M was the biggest let down out of the 26 cars I've owned, it just didn't live up to its sum of parts, even with some modifications. The current E89 was really just meant to be a stop gap due to a change in personal circumstances, but in total contrast to the Z4M, it's far exceeded my exceptions! I've fitted Eibach's, new 18" wheels and tyres, otherwise pretty standard.
As mentioned above, it's not as outright sporty as the previous generation, but a much better all rounder. There's never a drive where it doesn't feel at home whether it be a motorway cruise munching the miles or a cross country blast. I've done over 3k miles in 5 months, my previous "weekenders" would have done that in a year. I have a bike rack fitted now, which works really well. Boot is decent enough for a three soft bags even with the roof down. Cabin is a great place to be and I love the exterior looks.
I don't think anyone would argue the Z4 is better than the Boxster, but it's all about price points. I only just paid into 5 digits for a 2010 car with full BMW service history and 33k miles. Good luck finding a decent Boxster with that sort of money. I test drove a £20k 35i and £22k 35is last year, you'd have to be mad to pay that sort of money.
I'm on my third Z4, a 2010 E89 manual 30i M Sport. Previously had a supercharged E85 3.0i and a Z4M.
Z4M was the biggest let down out of the 26 cars I've owned, it just didn't live up to its sum of parts, even with some modifications. The current E89 was really just meant to be a stop gap due to a change in personal circumstances, but in total contrast to the Z4M, it's far exceeded my exceptions! I've fitted Eibach's, new 18" wheels and tyres, otherwise pretty standard.
As mentioned above, it's not as outright sporty as the previous generation, but a much better all rounder. There's never a drive where it doesn't feel at home whether it be a motorway cruise munching the miles or a cross country blast. I've done over 3k miles in 5 months, my previous "weekenders" would have done that in a year. I have a bike rack fitted now, which works really well. Boot is decent enough for a three soft bags even with the roof down. Cabin is a great place to be and I love the exterior looks.
I don't think anyone would argue the Z4 is better than the Boxster, but it's all about price points. I only just paid into 5 digits for a 2010 car with full BMW service history and 33k miles. Good luck finding a decent Boxster with that sort of money. I test drove a £20k 35i and £22k 35is last year, you'd have to be mad to pay that sort of money.
scz4 said:
I've copied and pasted this from another thread I contributed to last month:
I'm on my third Z4, a 2010 E89 manual 30i M Sport. Previously had a supercharged E85 3.0i and a Z4M.
Z4M was the biggest let down out of the 26 cars I've owned, it just didn't live up to its sum of parts, even with some modifications. The current E89 was really just meant to be a stop gap due to a change in personal circumstances, but in total contrast to the Z4M, it's far exceeded my exceptions! I've fitted Eibach's, new 18" wheels and tyres, otherwise pretty standard.
As mentioned above, it's not as outright sporty as the previous generation, but a much better all rounder. There's never a drive where it doesn't feel at home whether it be a motorway cruise munching the miles or a cross country blast. I've done over 3k miles in 5 months, my previous "weekenders" would have done that in a year. I have a bike rack fitted now, which works really well. Boot is decent enough for a three soft bags even with the roof down. Cabin is a great place to be and I love the exterior looks.
I don't think anyone would argue the Z4 is better than the Boxster, but it's all about price points. I only just paid into 5 digits for a 2010 car with full BMW service history and 33k miles. Good luck finding a decent Boxster with that sort of money. I test drove a £20k 35i and £22k 35is last year, you'd have to be mad to pay that sort of money.
Agree with this 100%I'm on my third Z4, a 2010 E89 manual 30i M Sport. Previously had a supercharged E85 3.0i and a Z4M.
Z4M was the biggest let down out of the 26 cars I've owned, it just didn't live up to its sum of parts, even with some modifications. The current E89 was really just meant to be a stop gap due to a change in personal circumstances, but in total contrast to the Z4M, it's far exceeded my exceptions! I've fitted Eibach's, new 18" wheels and tyres, otherwise pretty standard.
As mentioned above, it's not as outright sporty as the previous generation, but a much better all rounder. There's never a drive where it doesn't feel at home whether it be a motorway cruise munching the miles or a cross country blast. I've done over 3k miles in 5 months, my previous "weekenders" would have done that in a year. I have a bike rack fitted now, which works really well. Boot is decent enough for a three soft bags even with the roof down. Cabin is a great place to be and I love the exterior looks.
I don't think anyone would argue the Z4 is better than the Boxster, but it's all about price points. I only just paid into 5 digits for a 2010 car with full BMW service history and 33k miles. Good luck finding a decent Boxster with that sort of money. I test drove a £20k 35i and £22k 35is last year, you'd have to be mad to pay that sort of money.
I have owned a TVR Chimaera 4.0 for three years immense fun but plenty of expense and it was 3000 miles from new then a new Tuscan that required rebuild on 25000 miles then caught fire then in 2010 bought a Porsche Boxster spyder - the one with the tent roof - not practical but beautifully made sold after two years then to now a z89 silver red leather interior 3.0 straight six with sports exhaust - despite the cars above this is the best option if you buy with your heart then the tuscan with your head - I like the looks of the car but it attracts no attention compared to the above so if that’s what you want get a tvr
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