Uncle Robert put in 40 long years at a Montreal newspaper, but was never able to own one of the luxury sports cars that he’d been dreaming of since his youth. A limited budget and family obligations were no doubt what held him back. Sure, over the years he did own a MGB, a Camaro Rally Sport and a Rabbit GTI, but these cars were a far cry from a Porsche 928 or a Lotus Esprit.
As someone who’d always loved roadsters, Robert had vowed to himself that when he retired he’d finally get his dream toy. And I certainly don’t need to tell you that over the last 15 years, the object of his desires changed more often than can be counted. First it was the Boxster, then a S2000, then a Lotus Elise, and even a Corvette. But despite these passing fancies, BWM roadsters always held a special place in his heart – probably thanks to the magnificent 507. Robert’s infatuation with the little Z1 (which unfortunately was never sold in Canada) gave way to a major crush on the Z3 launched in 1997 (despite the fact that this vehicle really never offered anything too exciting under its hood).
From that point onward, dear Robert suffered from palpitations every time BMW modified the Z3, like when the 2.8 and 3.0 versions or the latest M Roadster arrived. And then came the Z8. Oh, joy. Oh, bliss. In Robert’s view (and I’m inclined to agree with him), the Z8 was BMW’s most beautiful car ever, something that would inspire designers for decades to come.
Obviously, Robert knew that this collector’s item would never make its way into his driveway. But with the 2003 arrival of the Z4, new aspirations were set, and these ones looked a lot more realistic! In fact, in the years that followed, several of Robert’s friends bought Z4s, and it became abundantly clear to him that this vehicle would be his companion of choice. Just a few months after retiring, Robert was poised to buy a Z4, until…he saw photos of the entirely redesigned Z4 online. This one was more distinguished, more aggressive and even more attractive. That decided it: he would bypass the 2007 Z4 and head straight for the 2010 Z4. Once this decision was made, Robert did not delay. He now drives a superb black 2009 Z4 with a dark red interior. Forty years of hard work finally paid off with the sports car of his dreams.
A car owner in paradise
When it was my turn to get behind the wheel of a Z4, I certainly had our proud friend Robert in mind, remembering how he’d found a new life driving under the open skies and how he just couldn’t stop praising the merits of his new sports car. But of course, I couldn’t simply take his word for it…
Admittedly, I also had a soft spot for the Z4 and thus my expectations were very high, if not too high. In fact, in my view the Z4 had always seemed more sporty and more refined than its rivals, even though it could never pretend to be as agile and sharp as a Porsche Boxster. The question was would the Z4 live up to my expectations?
And I have to say that it did, even though I’d be lying if I said no aspect of the vehicle disappointed me. Sure, I was as charmed as everyone else by its sensational lines, its long nose and aggressive characteristics, like the superbly integrated retractable roof. I also really loved the sober and modern interior featuring impeccable quality material. Both the seats and the amount interior space were improved, making long drives all the more pleasurable.
That said, the addition of the retractable hard top resulted in a slight increase in weight and led to some unfortunate sounds that really do not befit this type of vehicle. Ok, they managed to conserve a minimum amount of free space in the trunk, even when the roof is down. And I must admit that the roof’s opening and closing function is both fast and excellent. But nonetheless, it is unacceptable that a vehicle of this calibre let out those kinds of noises. Too bad.
No M, but…
Currently there is no M version of the latest Z4. But it shouldn’t be long until we see one. In the meantime, you should know that the sDrive35i version I tested comes with an absolutely fantastic engine – probably the best that BMW offers. It’s a 3.0-litre V6 with two small turbochargers, which give it fantastic flexibility, 300 hp and a generous amount of torque, even at lower speeds. The result is exotic performances for a fuel consumption of about 11.5 litres per 100 km.
Obviously, the sDrive35i comes standard with a manual six-speed gearbox, which is as magnificent as ever. However, you can opt for a sequential double-clutch transmission (borrowed from the M3), which adds another dimension to this roadster. Personally, I prefer the manual, but I admit that the sequential gearbox is pleasant to use and allows some very fast gear shifts.
People who aren’t necessarily looking for exotic accelerations should know that the sDrive30i version is also quite remarkable. Its naturally aspirated engine delivers 45 fewer horses, but in terms of flexibility and performances, it’s just as good. In this vehicle, you can go for either a manual or automatic transmission, both of which are 6-speeds.
Nothing but fun
Roof up or down, the Z4 is all about fun. In either case, visibility is great and onboard turbulence is non-existent. When driving on the highway, you’ll appreciate the vehicle’s firm steering, exceptionally well-calibrated suspension and great overall balance. Plus, the fact that you’re sitting right over the rear wheels with the car’s long nose stretching out in front of you gives you the most amazing feeling as you take it for a spin. It’s quite something!
Despite a few technical improvements, the 2010 Z4 seemed a little less agile than its predecessor, in my view. I mean, nothing major, but I found it harder to tame this puppy, probably because it’s longer, wider and heavier. Don’t get me wrong, I’m not saying it handles less well, it’s just that it’s a little less sharp. And it’s possible that I got this feeling because the vehicle I tested had a sequential gearbox instead of a manual one.
Regardless, the Z4 is very sporty and fun to drive. Plus, it’s well adapted for all styles. In fact, it’s now available with three modes: normal, sport and sport+. The simple push of a button will modify certain parameters to give you better comfort or better performance, whichever you’re looking for.
One thing is for sure, BMW managed to improve the Z4 while maintaining the same level of passion and pleasure. Robert could certainly tell you more about that! Yes, it’s been gentrified somewhat, but that just gives BMW the opportunity to make the Z2, a second roadster which should come out next year.
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