Tough choices

Decisions, decisions - do you go for the much cheaper, well-specified 3.0-litre run-out model, or do you settle for a more expensive new version, probably with a smaller-capacity motor?

Here's a conundrum you don't want to face and it's likely you will have to deal with this eventuality if you are searching for an example of BMW's signature roadster.

A 2006 model E85 Z4M costs almost the same as an 09 E89 Z4 2.3 of equal mileage.

Normally I'd recommend going the sensible route, which means opting for the newer, lesser car in order to secure peace of mind, lower running costs, and a costly future appointment with an upholsterer of cloth roofs.

But it's a Z4 M in question here and there are no doubts that the dyed-in-the-wool enthusiast will choose this one over the regular car.

The chances are stacked towards a newer version finding a home though, and here you will find a much more refined Z4 featuring the latest BMW features.

Of course the roof was the main talking point when the E89 arrived.

Switching from a rag top, which whizzed from closed to open in 11 seconds on the fly, to a metal folding top that takes more time to peel off but has added security, makes sense.

The metal top also ensures warmer ambient temperatures in cold weather.

Inside you will find it just as snug as the old car, but a bit tighter for some reason.

The business area exudes class, with lots of shiny surfaces combined with robust plastic areas.

There are a lot more toys too, if you go for the more expensive models, which will include BMW's new mouse-command set up that allows access to even more settings.

You can adjust the ride quality between soft and sport via buttons next to the gear lever and if you can help it, get the automatic. It completes the experience of driving topless.

Engine choices are much wider than the old car and three years ago you could get a Z4 Sdrive23i; now dropped for the Sdrive20i; the Sdrive30i and the Sdrive35i.

Get the smaller unit if you are after a Mazda MX-5-like performance and the 30i and twin-turbo 35i for the full whack of potential thrills.

A pre-owned Z4 of this era should still have left-over maintenance perks and warranties. But look for tell-tale signs of future heartaches, such as the level of tyre wear, chips on its elongated nose, listen to the thrum of the engine at idle, clutch wear and tear and such.

These are easy pointers whether the previous owner was gentle or not, especially if you take the 35i. The 23i should be in fair health. They aren't the point-and-squirt type and are likely to have had a female previous owner, whom, if I'm politically incorrect, will leave its technical bits and bobs fresh but gift the body shell with minor dings and such. They cost in the region of R400000 to R500000.