BMW Z4

BMW restyled the Z4 for 2009 and the new version looks way better than its predecessor. Of course that isn't really saying much. Of most importance is the addition of a retractable hard top which takes only 20 seconds to open and close. The sDrive30i version comes standard with a 3.0 liter inline 6 putting out 255 hp and 220 ft-lbs. of torque. The enthusiast will no doubt opt for the sDrive35i which adds a pair of turbochargers and increases output to 300hp and 300 ft-lbs. of torque. For 2011, BMW adds the sDrive35is which bumps up the power numbers to 340hp and 332 lbs. of torque good for a 0-60mph of 4.7 seconds and top speed of 155mph (limited)

The BMW Z4 M Coupe loses some fun compared to the roadster since it can't lose its top on a beautiful day but it makes up for it with better structural rigidity and therefore better performance.  This is proven on the Nordschleife, the Northern Circuit of Nurburgring, where the Z4 M Coupe outperforms the lap times of even the BMW M3 and the BMW Z4 M Roadster. Powered by the same prize-winning 3.2-litre straight-six M engine also featured in the BMW M3 and the BMW Z4 Roadster. the performance figures are indeed impressive at very first sight: 3,246 cc displacement, 333 bhp maximum output at an engine speed of 7,900 rpm, maximum engine speed of 8,000 rpm. And no less than 80 per cent of maximum torque of 262 lb-ft is available from just 2,000 rpm.

Output per liter is 103 bhp, giving the Z4 M Coupe a power-to-weight ratio of just 9.9 lb/bhp. Acceleration to 60 mph comes in 4.8 seconds and top speed is limited electronically to 155 mph.  The superior engine and drivetrain of the BMW Z4 M Coupe are matched by an equally superior high-performance suspension. In its basic concept, the suspension is identical to that of the BMW Z4 M Roadster, but has nevertheless been geared specifically to the particular requirements of the fixed-head model.

2007 BMW Z4 M Roadster Specifications

BMW finally decided to give the Z4 the power it deserves by giving the M Roadster version the same 343 HP inline 6 from the M3.  0-60 is estimated to be 5.0 seconds which seems a bit conservative when you consider it weighs less than the M3 which runs it in 4.7.  Top speed is of course limited to 155 MPH.  The Z4 M Roadster comes with the speed-sensitive variable M differential lock already well-known and greatly admired on the M3. This special feature gives the car both superior driving stability and optimum traction especially when accelerating out of a bend. Allowing a very sporting style of motoring, especially on roads with a higher frictional coefficient, the M differential lock enables the experienced driver to enhance the positive features of rear-wheel drive to an even higher standard. Under challenging conditions such as a different frictional coefficient on each side of the car typical of winter weather and road surfaces, the system gives the Z4 M Roadster supreme traction and stability.

 
The most conspicuous cosmetic highlights are the front air dam with its X-shaped combination of lines and openings, the large air intake scoops, as well as the low-slung kidney grille and the two striking precision lines on the engine compartment lid. A feature exclusive to the Z4 M Roadster is the double-spoke design of the 18-inch aluminum rims. And last but certainly not least, the rear end also comes in that typical M style, with four striking tailpipes and a horizontal diffuser.

2006 BMW Z4 M Roadster Specifications