Newly purchased 11 Z4 35is initial driving impressions

SWO Daddy · 04-22-2013, 02:53 PM

Just purchased a new to me 2011 Z4 35is. The 35is is Melbourne Red with the extended walnut interior. Came with Comfort Access, Navigation, Premium Stereo, Lumbar, heated seats, etc... It's certified with 24xxx miles. After putting 2k miles it driving it home, I have some initial driving impressions that might interest some.

To put my thoughts in context, need to provide some background. First, this is my 5th BMW. I've owned two E46 3 series, one E53 X5 and most recently a modified E46 M3. I've wrenched on all of them and have some understanding of the BMW marque. I sold the M3 prior to my Afghanistan deployment and having returned last Monday, treated myself to the 35is.

First, the drive back home was fantastic. The N54T is as advertised providing power and gobs of torque on demand. I would say that though the power is quick to respond, the S54 of the M3 felt more responsive. Maybe this is just a function of normal aspiration when compared to forced induction. The power of the N54T is linear and that low end torque, which non-modded S54 owners lack, is intoxicating. No longer do I have to keep my RPMs over 3500 to get the kick in the pants we all love.

Handling was respectable as well. The comfort setting on the suspension was a little bouncy but switching to sport mode helped. Steering was good as well providing adequate feedback. In both these areas though, the E46 M3 was better hands down. The M3 always felt precise and the 35is not as much. This is probably an unfair comparison as the 35is is just not an M car, but it is worth noting for those looking for an impartial comparison. Braking was very good.

The cabin fit and polish was hands down awesome and much improved over the E46. Well done BMW. Navigation and all Idrive functionality was intuitive for me and I feel very comfortable having just been introduced to it on Friday. Love the walnut leather interior with beautiful contrast with the black leather. The extended leather was a bonus and nicely compliments the dash and visors.

Now I understand all the complaints about run-flats. My M3 was lowered on coilovers with 19in after market wheels. The ride was low, tight and stiff. The 35is takes that to a new level with noise to boot. I think the stiffness of the run-flat sidewalls added to the fairly firm rubber compounded by a low sitting position equals a loud cabin noise with top up. Keep in mind this is on our nations highways which in some states are in better condition than others. Using bluetooth became difficult as folks on the other end were complaining of road noise through the microphone! I didn't mind it so much, but for those that want a leisurely cruise, this might bug you.

LOVE the exhaust note. Nice burble and sound. Had the Active Autowerks exhaust on the M3 and this 35is stock exhaust is better. No plans to change it... ever.

That's all I can think of now. I'm sure I'll form more impressions as I enjoy the vert over the summer. Am moving from the east coast to San Diego next month and plan to be top down 80% of the year. SOCAL here I come.

Pictures to follow.

nicknaz · 04-22-2013, 03:16 PM

Send a PM when you are in San Diego if you want to go for a cruise. Nice to have another E89 owner in the area.

Welcome back and congrats on the new car

keepittrill · 04-22-2013, 03:27 PM

Thanks for your service and enjoy the car!

army_men · 04-22-2013, 03:48 PM

Congrads! Glad you are enjoying the ride! and welcome to the Z4 family.

Mr. ///M3 RD · 04-22-2013, 04:17 PM

Congratulations ... and thanks for your service

Melbourne Red with the extended walnut interior is a great combination ... enjoy!

M7NDP · 04-22-2013, 04:49 PM

Thanks for the comparison with the e46 m3... I have a similar setup albeit with a lesser engine (23i M sport) on 326M run flats... I agree with your opinion on the steering - I've had an e36 and 2x e46 and they were far sharper. Most definitely to do with the electric steering. At first I found the sensation really strange on long sweeping curves but I think I've just accepted it now.. There is a reason why they don't fit electric steering to ///M cars...
Also the run flats, 19" wheel combo here in the uk is quite terrible.. Pot holes galore meaning you have to constantly scan the road surface ahead and avoid while also constantly switching between sport and normal mode because I like the throttle mapping and steering weight in sport mode but don't like the stiffer suspension setting.. I wish it was configurable like the ///M cars. You will get used to it and as you say the torque will mean you'll be able to access more of the performance more of the time.. Once you're in the sun with the roof down, there's now denying it - a Melbourne Red Zed is the place to be

3Bimmer · 04-22-2013, 05:23 PM

Thanks for your service.

Congratulations on the new car.

BMWZ4RIDER · 04-22-2013, 07:39 PM

1st and foremost. Thank you for your service.
Now congrats on the new Z.
Enjoy and send some pic's.

jvilla107 · 04-22-2013, 08:16 PM

thank you for your service

Now lets see some pictures

VailM3 · 04-22-2013, 11:40 PM

Sounds like my impressions of my 2011 35iS. I suggest two things as they will greatly improve, road noise, comfort, handling and your want for a bit more drama from the exhaust. These 2 mods make the Z4 what it really should have been out of the box.

1. Michelin PSS
2. Golf tee mod

I have done both on my 11 35iS and make the world of difference.

Lackey · 04-24-2013, 10:51 PM

Welcome home.

ZheHbKa · 04-26-2013, 07:39 AM

golf t mod for even better exhaust note

congrats!

SWO Daddy · 04-30-2013, 02:32 PM

BMWZ4RIDER · 04-30-2013, 03:52 PM

Very Nice machine.

R1robot · 04-30-2013, 06:03 PM

gorgeous, congrats.

Hujan · 05-01-2013, 10:00 AM

Thank you for your bravery and service to our country
Welcome home!
Beautiful car!
Good luck with your move and welcome to San Diego

Vintage · 05-01-2013, 10:51 AM

thank you for your service to our country and awesome looking car

DslDwg · 05-01-2013, 06:28 PM

Great combination congrats!

InsanePineapple · 05-02-2013, 02:01 AM

Thanks for the review! She's a beauty

SWO Daddy · 05-02-2013, 02:49 PM

Thx all for the kind words.

SgtGigglebox · 05-02-2013, 03:34 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by SWO Daddy

Thx all for the kind words.

You suck.

(you know, just for contrast)

Yours really makes me miss my old red E85. Congrats

Stupenal · 05-23-2013, 01:48 PM

I came from an e36 m3 to the z4iS (before I sold it last year) and would have to agree with you on several points:

1. handling - its not that great of a handling bmw. even in sport plus mode, it's not bad but its not great
2. steering feel - honestly I think this is the biggest drawback of new bmws (and specifically the z4). The steering feel is too numb with the electronic steering system.
3. power delivery - gobs and gobs of torque, but there is a slight throttle response lag. even more noticable with the dct when moving at slow speeds.
4. interior - best BMW interior, especially with the extended leather package. mine had the ivory white nappa which was unbelievably gorgeous.

glad you're enjoying the car, the color combo is beautiful.

04-22-2013, 02:53 PM	#1
SWO Daddy Private 5 Rep 79 Posts Drives: 11 E90 M3 Join Date: Feb 2012 Location: San Antonio, TX iTrader: (0)	PICS added - Newly purchased 11 Z4 35is initial driving impressions Just purchased a new to me 2011 Z4 35is. The 35is is Melbourne Red with the extended walnut interior. Came with Comfort Access, Navigation, Premium Stereo, Lumbar, heated seats, etc... It's certified with 24xxx miles. After putting 2k miles it driving it home, I have some initial driving impressions that might interest some. To put my thoughts in context, need to provide some background. First, this is my 5th BMW. I've owned two E46 3 series, one E53 X5 and most recently a modified E46 M3. I've wrenched on all of them and have some understanding of the BMW marque. I sold the M3 prior to my Afghanistan deployment and having returned last Monday, treated myself to the 35is. First, the drive back home was fantastic. The N54T is as advertised providing power and gobs of torque on demand. I would say that though the power is quick to respond, the S54 of the M3 felt more responsive. Maybe this is just a function of normal aspiration when compared to forced induction. The power of the N54T is linear and that low end torque, which non-modded S54 owners lack, is intoxicating. No longer do I have to keep my RPMs over 3500 to get the kick in the pants we all love. Handling was respectable as well. The comfort setting on the suspension was a little bouncy but switching to sport mode helped. Steering was good as well providing adequate feedback. In both these areas though, the E46 M3 was better hands down. The M3 always felt precise and the 35is not as much. This is probably an unfair comparison as the 35is is just not an M car, but it is worth noting for those looking for an impartial comparison. Braking was very good. The cabin fit and polish was hands down awesome and much improved over the E46. Well done BMW. Navigation and all Idrive functionality was intuitive for me and I feel very comfortable having just been introduced to it on Friday. Love the walnut leather interior with beautiful contrast with the black leather. The extended leather was a bonus and nicely compliments the dash and visors. Now I understand all the complaints about run-flats. My M3 was lowered on coilovers with 19in after market wheels. The ride was low, tight and stiff. The 35is takes that to a new level with noise to boot. I think the stiffness of the run-flat sidewalls added to the fairly firm rubber compounded by a low sitting position equals a loud cabin noise with top up. Keep in mind this is on our nations highways which in some states are in better condition than others. Using bluetooth became difficult as folks on the other end were complaining of road noise through the microphone! I didn't mind it so much, but for those that want a leisurely cruise, this might bug you. LOVE the exhaust note. Nice burble and sound. Had the Active Autowerks exhaust on the M3 and this 35is stock exhaust is better. No plans to change it... ever. That's all I can think of now. I'm sure I'll form more impressions as I enjoy the vert over the summer. Am moving from the east coast to San Diego next month and plan to be top down 80% of the year. SOCAL here I come. Pictures to follow. __________________ Last edited by SWO Daddy; 04-30-2013 at 02:34 PM..
	Appreciate 0 Tweet Quote

04-22-2013, 03:16 PM	#2
nicknaz Lieutenant General 3187 Rep 10,509 Posts Drives: C6Z Join Date: May 2008 Location: NorCal iTrader: (0)	Send a PM when you are in San Diego if you want to go for a cruise. Nice to have another E89 owner in the area. Welcome back and congrats on the new car
	Appreciate 0 Quote

04-22-2013, 03:27 PM	#3
keepittrill Banned 30 Rep 575 Posts Drives: "Daddy-bought" 2010 Z4 Join Date: Apr 2013 Location: Phoenix, Arizona iTrader: (0)	Thanks for your service and enjoy the car!
	Appreciate 0 Quote

04-22-2013, 03:48 PM	#4
army_men Lieutenant 45 Rep 406 Posts Drives: E89 Z4 35i Join Date: Jan 2012 Location: Canada iTrader: (0) Garage List 2011 BMW Z4 35i [10.00]	Congrads! Glad you are enjoying the ride! and welcome to the Z4 family. __________________
	Appreciate 0 Quote

04-22-2013, 04:17 PM	#5
Mr. ///M3 RD Happy Camper 612 Rep 7,869 Posts Drives: C63 AMG & 280 SL on Weekends : Join Date: May 2010 Location: GTA, Ontario - Canada iTrader: (0) Garage List 1969 Restored Merce ... [7.50] 2011 M3 Coupe TRADED [7.34] 1987 BMW 535is [1.00] Cars from the Past [6.50] The ///M3 Engine S65 [9.59]	Congratulations ... and thanks for your service Melbourne Red with the extended walnut interior is a great combination ... enjoy! __________________ Cheers, Rolf-Dieter Life will take us to some interesting places, fortunately The ///M3 will too with a many of us know this very well, now my C6.3 AMG with 487 HP does it too ---> Click here for some good stuff I found
	Appreciate 0 Quote

04-22-2013, 04:49 PM	#6
M7NDP Private 5 Rep 55 Posts Drives: E89 Z4 sdrive23i M Sport H'Lin Join Date: Mar 2012 Location: Scotland iTrader: (0)	Thanks for the comparison with the e46 m3... I have a similar setup albeit with a lesser engine (23i M sport) on 326M run flats... I agree with your opinion on the steering - I've had an e36 and 2x e46 and they were far sharper. Most definitely to do with the electric steering. At first I found the sensation really strange on long sweeping curves but I think I've just accepted it now.. There is a reason why they don't fit electric steering to ///M cars... Also the run flats, 19" wheel combo here in the uk is quite terrible.. Pot holes galore meaning you have to constantly scan the road surface ahead and avoid while also constantly switching between sport and normal mode because I like the throttle mapping and steering weight in sport mode but don't like the stiffer suspension setting.. I wish it was configurable like the ///M cars. You will get used to it and as you say the torque will mean you'll be able to access more of the performance more of the time.. Once you're in the sun with the roof down, there's now denying it - a Melbourne Red Zed is the place to be
	Appreciate 0 Quote

04-22-2013, 05:23 PM	#7
3Bimmer Private First Class 11 Rep 163 Posts Drives: 2013 X3 35i Join Date: Apr 2012 Location: SoCal iTrader: (0)	Thanks for your service. Congratulations on the new car.
	Appreciate 0 Quote

04-22-2013, 07:39 PM	#8
BMWZ4RIDER BMWZ4Rider 69 Rep 801 Posts Drives: 2009 BMW Z4 35i Join Date: Dec 2012 Location: Cape Cod, MA iTrader: (0)	1st and foremost. Thank you for your service. Now congrats on the new Z. Enjoy and send some pic's. __________________ 2009 BMW Z4 35i/SMG/DCT/Premium,Cold, Sound PK/Com Acc/Ash/PDC/Wind Deflector/Smoked Reflectors/Red Calipers/Cl Mask/M Series Grill/6000K LED's/De-Badged/M Pedals/CF Mirrors-Engine Cover/Stubby/20% Tint/H8 LED's/LCI Side Markers/Sniper Sprint Spoiler/VMR V710/H&R Sport Springs/KN.
	Appreciate 0 Quote

04-22-2013, 08:16 PM	#9
jvilla107 Private First Class 480 Rep 151 Posts Drives: G29 Z4 Skyscraper/Magma Join Date: Jun 2008 Location: Land O Lakes FL iTrader: (0) Garage List 2023 BMW 430i GC [8.00] 2023 BMW Z4 [9.94]	thank you for your service Now lets see some pictures
	Appreciate 0 Quote

04-22-2013, 11:40 PM	#10
VailM3 Captain 61 Rep 766 Posts Drives: 2011 Z4 35is Join Date: Jan 2013 Location: Geneva Switzerland iTrader: (0)	Sounds like my impressions of my 2011 35iS. I suggest two things as they will greatly improve, road noise, comfort, handling and your want for a bit more drama from the exhaust. These 2 mods make the Z4 what it really should have been out of the box. 1. Michelin PSS 2. Golf tee mod I have done both on my 11 35iS and make the world of difference. Last edited by VailM3; 04-23-2013 at 01:56 AM..
	Appreciate 0 Quote

04-24-2013, 10:51 PM	#11
Lackey Major 0 Rep 78 Posts Drives: 2014 435 M Sport Vert Join Date: Sep 2010 Location: At your 6 iTrader: (0) Garage List 2011 Z4 30i [7.00]	Welcome home.
	Appreciate 0 Quote

04-26-2013, 07:39 AM	#12
ZheHbKa Lieutenant Colonel 78 Rep 1,793 Posts Drives: the Wind Join Date: Jul 2007 Location: NYC iTrader: (0) Garage List 2014 BMW 335 Xi [10.00]	golf t mod for even better exhaust note congrats! __________________ 2014 F30 335 X-Drive \| 6-MT \| Alpine White/Coral Red \| ZMM ZDH ZDA \|
	Appreciate 0 Quote

04-30-2013, 02:32 PM	#13
SWO Daddy Private 5 Rep 79 Posts Drives: 11 E90 M3 Join Date: Feb 2012 Location: San Antonio, TX iTrader: (0)	Pics added __________________
	Appreciate 0 Quote

04-30-2013, 03:52 PM	#14
BMWZ4RIDER BMWZ4Rider 69 Rep 801 Posts Drives: 2009 BMW Z4 35i Join Date: Dec 2012 Location: Cape Cod, MA iTrader: (0)	Very Nice machine. __________________ 2009 BMW Z4 35i/SMG/DCT/Premium,Cold, Sound PK/Com Acc/Ash/PDC/Wind Deflector/Smoked Reflectors/Red Calipers/Cl Mask/M Series Grill/6000K LED's/De-Badged/M Pedals/CF Mirrors-Engine Cover/Stubby/20% Tint/H8 LED's/LCI Side Markers/Sniper Sprint Spoiler/VMR V710/H&R Sport Springs/KN.
	Appreciate 0 Quote

04-30-2013, 06:03 PM	#15
R1robot Private First Class 5 Rep 111 Posts Drives: 2003 Z4 2.5i Join Date: Jan 2013 Location: Texas iTrader: (0)	gorgeous, congrats.
	Appreciate 0 Quote

05-01-2013, 10:00 AM	#16
Hujan Brigadier General 569 Rep 3,742 Posts Drives: M3 Join Date: Apr 2013 Location: . iTrader: (16)	Thank you for your bravery and service to our country Welcome home! Beautiful car! Good luck with your move and welcome to San Diego
	Appreciate 0 Quote

05-01-2013, 10:51 AM	#17
Vintage Colonel 379 Rep 2,588 Posts Drives: BMW G80 (MT), 718 Spyder Join Date: Aug 2009 Location: Austin, Texas iTrader: (0)	thank you for your service to our country and awesome looking car
	Appreciate 0 Quote

05-01-2013, 06:28 PM	#18
DslDwg Private First Class 71 Rep 148 Posts Drives: 2014 Z4 35is Join Date: Mar 2013 Location: Houston, TX iTrader: (0)	Great combination congrats!
	Appreciate 0 Quote

05-02-2013, 02:01 AM	#19
InsanePineapple Shenanigans 83 Rep 1,252 Posts Drives: See Signature Join Date: Jul 2010 Location: Austin, TX iTrader: (1)	Thanks for the review! She's a beauty __________________ [Current] Tesla Model 3 Performance [Retired] Audi R8 V10 6MT, BMW i3 BEV, BMW i3 REx, BMW Z4 sDrive35i DCT, BMW 335i Coupe 6MT
	Appreciate 0 Quote

05-02-2013, 02:49 PM	#20
SWO Daddy Private 5 Rep 79 Posts Drives: 11 E90 M3 Join Date: Feb 2012 Location: San Antonio, TX iTrader: (0)	Thx all for the kind words.
	Appreciate 0 Quote

05-23-2013, 01:48 PM	#22
Stupenal First Lieutenant 43 Rep 347 Posts Drives: Mmm Join Date: May 2009 Location: Socal iTrader: (10)	I came from an e36 m3 to the z4iS (before I sold it last year) and would have to agree with you on several points: 1. handling - its not that great of a handling bmw. even in sport plus mode, it's not bad but its not great 2. steering feel - honestly I think this is the biggest drawback of new bmws (and specifically the z4). The steering feel is too numb with the electronic steering system. 3. power delivery - gobs and gobs of torque, but there is a slight throttle response lag. even more noticable with the dct when moving at slow speeds. 4. interior - best BMW interior, especially with the extended leather package. mine had the ivory white nappa which was unbelievably gorgeous. glad you're enjoying the car, the color combo is beautiful.
	Appreciate 0 Quote