The first generation of the BMW Z4 consists of the BMW E85 and BMW E86 sports cars. The E85/E86 generation was produced from 2002 to 2008. The E85/E86 replaced the Z3 and is the third model in the BMW Z Series. Initial models were in the roadster (E85) body style, with the coupé (E86) body style being added in 2006. In February 2009, the BMW Z4 (E89) began production as the successor to the E85/E86.

The BMW Z models are a line of roadsters manufactured by German automaker BMW. The Z stands for Zukunft, and has been produced in four different series with six generations consisting of roadster, coupé, sports car, and concept variants.