Cabrio purchase 5-6k

[alexs2b]

Hey,

Wanted some help in deciding what car I want to buy for a weekend run around. Practicality isn’t a big issue but obvs has its benefits. I’d like a 6 cylinder as I’ve never owned one and before they get canned completely.

Choices are but open to opinions;

BMW Z4 2.5 Si
BMW Z4 3.0 Si (worth the extra?)
BMW 330Ci
BMW 135i (stretching budget)

Porsche Boxster 986/7 3.2 S (super expensive to run?)

Nissan 350Z

I’ve considered an old XK8 / Merck’s but not sure if they’d drive as well.

There’s also an option to go for an mx5.. it’s a tough choice

[alexs2b]

Note, I’d probs get a manual unless performance/fun isn’t hindered.

[J.R.B.]

650i can be had for that price now. Incredible engine, although not without its issues so find a good one. I’ve run one for 7 years now and it’s been fantastic.

[cerb4.5lee]

I have a 370Z GT Roadster which I'm really happy with so I'm a bit bias and I'll say go for the 350Z. The Z4 is a great value car as well so I'd be looking at those too.

I test drove a 350Z Roadster back in 2006 and I really liked it and I also used to have a Z4M Roadster so I have experience of both models.

I'm also really warming to the MX-5 so they deserve a good look at as well, and anyone that's had one always heaps them with praise.

[ZX10R NIN]

The Z4's run out of suspension travel & while the engines sweeter, I'd be going for the 350Z.

350Z

https://www.autotrader.co.uk/classified/advert/201...

https://www.autotrader.co.uk/classified/advert/201...

https://www.autotrader.co.uk/classified/advert/201...

Honda S2000

https://www.autotrader.co.uk/classified/advert/201...

https://www.autotrader.co.uk/classified/advert/201...

3.2 Alfa Spider

https://www.autotrader.co.uk/classified/advert/201...

Other Options:

CLK500

https://www.autotrader.co.uk/classified/advert/201...

350 if it has to be a 6 cylinder.

https://www.autotrader.co.uk/classified/advert/201...

[clockworks]

I've owned a Z4 2.2 (6 cylinder), a 987 Boxster S, and a couple of MX-5s (NB and NC).

The Z4 was a cruiser not a sports car, OK for long journeys, but I never really trusted it to go where I pointed it - seemed to lack precision. Solidly built.

The Boxster S was a much better driver's car, but it just felt a little flimsy - doors clanged, trim was a bit iffy. The constant worry about engine failure took the edge off my enjoyment.

Both Mazdas felt mechanically bullet-proof. The NB was getting on a bit and hadn't been well cared for by previous owners, but it still worked. The NC was a bit more grown up. Neither of them were really suited to long drives for me - a bit raw and noisy, which became tiring after a couple of hours.

I did consider a Nissan, but the fuel consumption and road tax put me off.

I guess it depends on how you are going to use the car.

If I was in the market for another sporty convertible in this price range, it would be between a tin-top MX-5 (more refined with the roof up for long journeys) and a non-S 987 (far less engine worries, but still fast enough).

If I just wanted a convertible cruiser for the open road, I'd be looking at a 6 series.

[jonmiles]

I've owned a 350z and it was the one car I regret selling. It still looks good today.

[Wagonwheel555]

Out of the list you listed, the 330Ci would be the one for me but its personal preference.

Practically might not be a factor now but X months or years down the line, at least the 330Ci has some rear seats you could use.

We had a 2007 Z4 and apart from the woefully poor 2.0 engine, the rest of the car was ok, although the seats were not comfy for a long journey in my opinion.

[Frimley111R]

We had 2 Z4s, Both nice to cruise about in and look good but nothing to drive

We had a 986 Boxster 2.7 which was seriously well built, lovely car. It drove well (although like a tank compared to my Elise). I don't think you can beat it for a weekend convertible. Also cost nothing much to run, basic servicing at an independent etc.

[Mr Tidy]

It depends what you want it for to be fair!

If it is for cruising around with the top down, a 330Ci should be fine.

But if it is for attacking a quiet B-Road then by all accounts it has to be a Boxster.

Although if you do go for a Z4 IMO the 3.0Si is so much better than the 2.5Si - I've had both engines in E9* 3 Series and the 3 litre is definitely the one to have.

But it works and sounds much better in a Z4 - even if my Z4 is a Coupe (the only car I've bought where looks were a factor).

Just a thought, but might a 125i be an option?