  We analyze the $Z$ line shape assuming the existence of an analytic, unitary
S-matrix. As an example, from hadron production at LEP we determine
$M_{Z}=91.134 \pm 0.020 \pm 0.020 \: ({\rm LEP})$ GeV, $\Gamma_{Z}=2.506 \pm
0.018$ GeV. This is in accordance with earlier results after performing a shift
of the $Z$ mass value of about $\frac{1}{2}\Gamma_Z^2/M_Z = 34$ MeV. The cross
section and related observables may be described by a small number of
additional degrees of freedom without relying on a specific field-theoretic
model.
