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The 2010 BMW Z4 sDrive30i ($46,000) comes with a 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder engine of 255 horsepower at 6600 rpm, 220 pound-feet of torque at 2600 rpm and a six-speed manual transmission; a six-speed sport automatic with shift paddles is optional ($1,375). It's delivered with faux leather leatherette upholstery, manual climate control, power retractable hardtop, heated power mirrors and rear window, six-way manual bucket seats, tilt/telescoping steering wheel, rain-sensing wipers, power windows and locks, trip computer and adaptive bi-Xenon headlamps. Options include brushed aluminum or ash wood trim ($500) and the Kansas leather upholstery ($1,250) from the sDrive35i.
The Z4 sDrive35i ($51,900) has a 3.0-liter inline-6 that delivers 300 horsepower at 5800 rpm and 300 pound-feet of torque from 1400 to 5000 rpm; it is a different engine than the 30i and employs twin turbochargers. A six-speed manual gearbox is standard and a seven-speed dual-clutch automated manual optional ($1,575). Other mechanical upgrades include larger brakes and wider rear tires and wheels. Cabin upgrades include standard leather upholstery, brushed aluminum trim or ash wood, and automatic dual-zone climate control. Kansas leather upholstery on the dash, visors, and door sills ($1,350) is optional, along with a 19-inch wheel upgrade to the Sport package ($1,200).
Options for the sDrive30i and sDrive35i include navigation ($2,100); Comfort Access ($500); Park Distance Control ($750); satellite radio ($350); smartphone integration ($150); anti-theft alarm ($400); and metallic paint ($550). The Cold Weather Package ($1,000) includes heated steering wheel and seats, storage pack, through-loading system, and headlight washers. The Premium Package includes auto-dimming mirrors, gate opener, power seats with lumbar and driver memory, ambient light package, BMW assist, and leather on the 30i. Premium Sound ($2,000) adds a six-disc DVD changer, hi-fi sound system, and iPod/USB adapter. The Sport Package adds 18-inch alloy wheels and run-flat performance tires, Adaptive M suspension, and sport seats; 19-inch wheels are also available. Exclusive Ivory white Nappa leather is available, along with anthracite wood trim.
The sDrive35is features an engine with increased intake air flow and increased boost pressure to deliver even more power. Its maximum output is 335 horsepower at 5800 rpm and 332 pound-feet of torque from 1500 to 4500 rpm. In addition, its engine management system includes an electronically-controlled overboost function which allows briefly increasing torque by another 37 pound-feet, for a temporary peak of 369 pound-feet and a significant increase in acceleration. While the sDrive35i will accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in 5.1 seconds, the sDrive35is will do it in 4.7 seconds.
The sDrive35is has the seven-speed dual-clutch transmission as standard equipment, with the programming tailored to complement the nature of the car and engine. The sDrive35is also features some M Sport upgrades, including M Aerodynamics and adaptive M Suspension, which combines a ride-height reduction of 10 millimeters with electronically-controlled shock absorbers to improve handling without compromising comfort. It also has special five-spoke 18-inch alloy wheels, with 19-inch wheels optionally available. Finally, it features aluminum trim bars in the outer air intakes, a rear bumper with accentuated surrounds on the tailpipes, and a rear diffuser finished on top in body color and below in a black textured surface.
Safety features for the Z4 include frontal airbags, head/thorax side airbags in the seats, active knee protection, roll hoops, electronic stability, traction and braking controls, and tire-pressure monitoring. The only option that might be considered safety related is the Park Distance Control.
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