We do not recommend towing a caravan that is heavier than 1200 kg kg with this BMW.
In this advice we assume an average caravan with a weight of 1200 kg. Remember that the exact performance depends on the chosen caravan and that air resistance and dimensions have an influence.
Performance
Weight
The maximum train weight is exceeded by 50 kg!
The BMW Z3 Roadster 2.8i with a Caravan as an example with an actual weight of 1200 kg is in general a good match and suitable for all journeys on all kinds of roads.
The motor preformance of the BMW is in general good. And also the weight of the Caravan with a normally distributed User Payload (200 kg in the caravan and 200 kg in the car including passengers), is not too heavy, if the caravan is well loaded.
Flat roads
Towing Performance
251
209
Mountains
Risk of snaking
306
160
Weight ratio: 77% (88% of kerbweight)
1200 kg
1560 kg
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BMW Z3 Roadster 2.8i Caravan as an example
Actual Weights
Caravan as an example: 1200 kg.
BMW Z3 Roadster 2.8i: 1560 kg.
Noseweight: 70 kg.
Actual weight ratio: 77%.
Performance
The engine's performance is generally very good on flat roads (performance score to compare 251 points).
Speeds of 77 mph (124 km/h) to 82 mph (132 km/h) are often quite possible.
There is more than enough power at low engine speeds (score to compare 209 points).
Slightly higher revs (2100 rpm) may be necessary under normal conditions on flat roads.
Acceleration from 0-62 mph (0-100 km/h) is theoretically possible in 13.8 sec.
In the mountains the performance is generally very good (score to compare 306 points).
No problems are to be expected on steep mountain roads. Hill starts are possible on steep slopes up to 21%.
On motorway inclines higher revs (3100 rpm) are needed.
A speed of 70 mph (113 km/h) is usually possible on most motorway inclines.
Weight
The maximum train weight is exceeded by 50 kg (check this in your vehicle documents).
If you passed your driving test after 1 January 1997, a B driving license is enough.
The car is too heavily loaded.
Weight ratio between the laden caravan and the loaded car is 77%. Common in the UK: the weight ratio between the laden caravan and the kerbweight of the car is 88%.
There is a small chance of snaking at higher speeds, strong side winds and thoughtless driving. Even if the combination normally feels stable, the forces by deflection side to side are great at high speed. For drivers with knowledge of, and experience in driving a caravan it is safe to drive, but proper and careful loading is still important! An electronic stability system in the car and / or on the caravan is worth considering.
Recommended noseweight is 70 kg.
Safe speed up to 62 mph (100 km/h).
Stability and safety score to compare is 160 points.
If the caravan starts to snake you should reduce your speed and slow down directly! Lift your feet off the accelerator and brake gradually. Hold the steering wheel into a fixed position.
Conclusion
Performance is good.
If the caravan is well loaded safe driving is possible.
It's a perfect match!
Influence of User Payload on stability
Weight distribution and noseweight are vital in obtaining a stable caravan.