BMW Z4M
Introduced back in 2006, the hardtop version of the Z4 comes with the same 330-horsepower engine and suspension set-up of the Z4 M Roadster, and is an unabashed track car. It makes no apologies for its hard ride, engine and tire noise, and lack of sound-proofing, but in return provides the automotive enthusiast with a good basis for improving driving skills at BMW Car Club track events. It's the most powerful car of the Z4 line-up. Starting with the 2009 model year, the second-generation Z4 is built at BMW's Regensburg, Germany plant as a retractable hardtop roadster.
Mechanics:
Known simply as the 'M Coupe,' this track rat is only available with BMW's 3.2-liter inline six putting out 330 horsepower at 7,900 rpm and 262 lb.-ft. of torque at 4,900 rpm. Appropriate to its track use, it comes standard with BMW's satisfying six-speed manual transmission, vented cross-drilled brakes, and sport suspension on 18-inch alloy wheels with 225mm front tires and 245mm rear tires. The BME Z4M Roadster shares its 6-speed Getrag 217 manual gearbox with the M3.
Hitting the Tarmac:
Weighing in at just over 3000 pounds, the car is quick off the mark and fast in passing conditions. Though handling is responsive and satisfying, especially on smooth track surfaces, reviewers note that ride quality suffers on normal freeway pavement. To keep weight down, the car has little sound-proofing, and the coupe top acts as a sound resonator which amplifies any road noise, and makes casual conversation at speed all but impossible. It speeds from 0-60 mph in 5 seconds with a top speed limited to 155 mph.
Styling:
The once-controversial blade-edged BMW styling is now familiar, having been introduced on the BME Z4M roadster, and is capped by a tightly-drawn coupe top that has two subtle domes recalling the 'double-bubble Zagatos' with tops molded to provide clearance for racing helmets. The top ends in a raked hatchback with limited rear overhang, creating an overall look of muscular performance. Exterior features also include: Xenon automatic headlights-inc: auto-leveling, headlight washers; white turn signal indicators w/BMW logo roundels; adaptive brake lights; dual pwr heated mirrors; and rain-sensing windshield wipers w/heated washer jets.
Interior:
On the interior of the BME Z4M , the fat steering wheel and bucket seating with supportive side bolsters is perfect for track driving and enthusiastic backroads curve-carving. Space inside, however, is cramped and only 12 cubic-feet of luggage can be squeezed under the hatch. It also features: Nappa leather seat trim; M sport seats w/pronounced side bolsters; 3-spoke leather-wrapped tilt multi-function M sport steering wheel; 4-function on-board computer; service interval indicator w/miles-to-service readout; tire pressure monitor; and electronic analog instrumentation w/LCD main & trip odometers.