The BMW Z4, along with its Z3 predecessor, have been staples in the BMW roadster lineup for over a decade. With a firm suspension, rigid construction, and high-powered engine, the Z4 has been known to take any driver from zero to hero in no time flat. Utilizing the same inline-6 cylinder engine that's made the BMW 3 series the most popular mid-sized cars in the world, the Z4 commands the respect of any driver who knows the capabilities of the car. On the mountain roads, or just driving to the store, the Z4 shines with its true colors.

The 2010 BMW Z4 has two engine options, both being available in the more popular 3 series cars: The normally-aspirated 3.0 liter found in the base trim, and the turbocharged 3.0 liter found in the higher-end model. The normally-aspirated engine is exactly what you would expect from a BMW engine: It's a smoothly running engine that exudes class and refinement, all while delivering 255 horsepower to the rear wheels. Its 220 foot-pounds of torque provides ample passing ability on the highway, making this engine suitable for those who routinely cruise at high speeds on the Autobahn. Its fuel economy is also unsurpassed for an engine of this output: 19 mpg city, 28 mpg highway is standard in the manual transmission models.

For those who want a bit more acceleration and speed from their BMW Z4s, there is a second engine option: The turbocharged 3.0 liter inline-6, featuring 300 horsepower and 300 foot-pounds of torque. This is exactly the same engine found in its BMW 335i cousin, and is no less riveting. With peak torque found at a lazy but impressive 1400 RPM, fuel economy is preserved throughout a wide range of speeds. Expect 18 mpg city, 25 mpg highway from this brute.

Learn more about BMW Z4 Engine and other industry specific topics by visiting the company website.