Questions regarding Z4 purchase

[Steve 82SC]

I've been considering a used Boxster for my wife. The two cars on the list were the Z4 and Boxster. Upon driving both, she preferred the slightly harder edge of the Boxster, but said she wouldn't be unhappy with either, describing it as the difference between a 9 and a 10. Just when we thought everything was put to bed, a personal acquaintance informs us that he's selling his '03 2.5 Z4 with automatic. It's very clean and the deal is basically unbeatable. What has been your experience with these cars in the day-to-day world? Any pitfalls that I should look out for regarding this '03 model? Any general weak points to the car? I'm extremely good about maintenance and care. My 82 911 is weekend cream-puff so it's just a matter of keeping up with things. Our daily drivers (Saabs) can be maintenance intensive at times and expensive to repair. Any comments and/or insight would be greatly appreciated. Thanks.

Steve

[epbrown]

The Z4 is based on the E46 3-series running gear - all the bugs have been worked out. The only Z4-specific problem I've heard of is the rear coil springs have a tendency to break. The dealers will replace them under warranty.

You might also want to check out the "Z4 Problems" forum at www.z4um.com. I've had no problems with mine, other than my distaste for the ride with the run-flat tires. I upgrade my 16" standard wheels to 18" Ellipsoid wheels (type 107 in Bimmer parlance) with Goodyear F1 Eagle DS-G3s, and I've been happy ever since.