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BMW Z4 vs rivals

Is the new turbo BMW Z4 the best choice for top-down fun? We test it against its rivals from Audi and Nissan

BMW Z4 vs rivals

Photos: Otis Clay February 2012

Take one roadster. Add a twisty road and stir in some beautiful views. Finish with dry, sunny weather for a truly unforgettable experience. It’s a simple recipe, but any car enthusiast will tell you it’s hard to beat a good roadster for driving thrills. So which should you buy?

BMW’s latest entry-level Z4 is a strong choice. The inefficient straight-six engine has been replaced by a four-cylinder turbo, making the car cleaner, faster and more economical. But can it beat two talented rivals?

First in line to see how the Z4 measures up is the Audi TT Roadster, which has been available with a turbocharger for years. The brilliant 2.0-litre TFSI model sets the class benchmark for the BMW to beat.

If it’s old-fashioned cubic inches you’re after, the final car in our line-up has the answer. The Nissan 370Z Roadster follows a more traditional approach, with a naturally aspirated 3.7-litre V6. So is that old-school character enough to power it to victory in this company?

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2 Comments

Invert the winning order to get the real-life choice.

By giorikas81 on 23 February, 2012, 5:49pm

TT best - ??????

The 370 nissan is an excellent car. But it's engine puts it out of this comparison.
The TT is only 1 + seconds quicker to 100k, but 2.1mpg thirstier. This evens the balance out. The Audi has it's higher spec engine in this car. Surely a better match would be the 2.8 BMW engine which would cream the Audi and give similar MPG.
The Audi looks like a lump of turd on the road, whereas the BMW looks sharp and beautiful. The BMW interior leaves the Audi's back in the last century.
The only plus for Audi is the 4 wheel drive - good one Audi.
On spec alone the BMW is the better car.
PS. No value give for the Audi, as tested - why not.

By larrygold on 23 February, 2012, 10:09pm

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Audi TT front cornering

1st Audi TT

Established class leader still presents a stern challenge to the latest BMW
BMW Z4 front tracking

2nd BMW Z4

Revised car gets more efficient turbo engine – but is it still as fun to drive?
Nissan 370Z GT front cornering

3rd Nissan 370Z GT

Brash, powerful roadster does things the old-fashioned way
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Facts and Figures

Verdict

Roadsters make lots of compromises in the pursuit of driving fun, and the car that demands the fewest wins here. The Audi TT appeals on every level. Whether you want an eye-catching car to impress the neighbours, something for weekend open-air thrills or an everyday driver, it’s the one to have.

It stands out with its assured handling, high-quality hood and classy interior. And if you think this S line looks expensive, lesser models are cheaper, without demanding huge dynamic sacrifices or styling compromises.

Second place goes to the BMW. The new turbocharged engine will mean it costs less to run than before, but the Z4 doesn’t have much personality and its hard-top feels over-engineered compared to the Audi’s simple fabric roof.

Bringing up the rear is the Nissan. It’s still able to put a smile on your face on the right road, yet has too many flaws to finish anywhere but last.

Winner
Audi TT Roadster ★★★★★
We were expecting a close fight, but the Audi merely underlined its superiority. From its unique looks and classy cabin to its composed chassis and lively engines, everything about the TT has been beautifully crafted. The result is a car that’s very rewarding to live with and own.

2nd
BMW Z4 ★★★★
The turbocharged engine addresses many problems, but also creates some new ones. The 2.0-litre is more efficient and less polluting than before, but it has taken away some of the charm of the old straight-six Z4. Plus, while the engine is new, BMW has done nothing to fix the chassis, which is still tuned for comfort, not handling.

3rd
Nissan 370z Roadster ★★★
Flashes of brilliance from the 370Z are marred by too many flaws. If you can put up with the awkward driving position, tiny boot, flimsy hood and thirsty engine, this is a capable sports car. It’s fine for a short blast, but hard to recommend on a longer-term basis.

 
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