The BMW Z4 is one of the stalwarts of its class.
The drop-top sports car is now in its third generation, with the BMW having forged a wheel-to-wheel battle with the Porsche Boxster during each. The Porsche has traditionally been the critic’s choice, but the latest Z4 gets closer to besting its rival than ever before.
For this model, introduced in 2018, BMW continued the Z4’s traditional front-engine, rear-drive layout, but it was designed around a cloth roof, which returned for the first time since the initial Z4’s introduction in 2002.
A 50:50 weight distribution and its lighter roof improved handling, while boot space was increased by 50% to 281 litres.
Three engines are available, starting with a choice of two turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder petrols. The entry-level sDrive20i produces 194bhp while the sDrive30i offers a boost to 255bhp. Not enough? You will want the turbocharged 3.0-litre straight six, then, which pumps out 335bhp and 369lb ft for the range-topping, M Performance M40i. Each engine gets a ZF eight-speed automatic gearbox.
There are three trim levels, all well equipped. Sport kicks off with 18in alloy wheels, cruise control, climate control, heated seats, adaptive LED headlights and BMW’s Live Cockpit iDrive infotainment system.
M Sport brings a more aggressive look by way of revised bodywork, upgraded alloys and Shadowline trim. It also gains M Sport (read firmer) suspension settings.
The top-rung M40i burnishes the car’s sporting credentials with lightweight 19in alloys, adaptive suspension, an electronic differential and upgraded brakes, as well as electrically adjustable seats.
The Z4 sure has pulling power: even the 20i can race from 0-62mph in 6.6sec. But compare it with the Boxster and it’s left behind by 1.5sec.
The M40i shaves the time down to 4.5sec, plus it emits a more inspiring note (especially with the roof down), thanks to that glorious straight six.
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They are a rubbish car. Even the dealers don't try to sell them. They look amazed when you want a test-drive. It's nothing like a Boxster. It isn't even a good BMW. It's a cruiser, even in 40 guise. An M2 Competition is the same price and is miles better to drive. You really would have to want a soft-top to take one over an M2. Even the dealers know it. You will either buy an M2 or walk to the Porsche dealer.
That seems a fair summary. The M40i though, is often overpriced, and as you say, the weight of the engine dulls the enthusiastic turn-in of the four cylinder cars. The Z4 is not quite as good as the Boxster in any area, though it gets close, and costs less to buy and run, as age equivalent. This generation of Z4 has more of the fun factor of the MX5 than previous Z4's, and is better quality all round, as long as you don't mind automatics.
While the 20i is fine in itself as an MX5 beater, lots of them lack the useful extras like bigger brakes and adaptive suspension. Most 30i models are MSports and have these and upgraded sounds and kit. I reckon the 30i is the sweet spot of the range, costing little more than the 20i used, but with significantly more power, the sweeter four cylinder handling and 40mpg efficiency. No prizes for guessing I have a 30i MSport and love it.
OK the exhaust noise isn't great compared to the M40i, but it's probably more fun to drive.