BMW Z4 sDrive35i
An open top, rear-wheel drive and a powerful engine – BMW still knows the traditional recipe for a great roadster. But is that enough for the new Z4 to be classed a true performance car?
With its sharp creases, bold angles and superbly engineered metal hood, the Z4 looks the part, roof up or down, while a beautifully crafted cabin adds to the desirability. However, in range-topping 35i trim, it’s the wonderfully smooth 306bhp straight six under the bonnet that delivers the real magic.
Enhanced with twin turbos, it provides silky but punchy power throughout the rev range, while perfectly weighted controls and a slick manual gearbox complement its tuneful powerplant. The standard Drive Dynamic Control allows you to sharpen the throttle response, soften the stability control intervention and, with adaptive M Sport suspension, tighten the dampers, too. On the road, the combination of reassuring grip, decent refinement and strong pace is appealing. The Z4 sprints from 0-60mph in only 5.2 seconds, but around the twisty confines of the Anglesey track, the BMW was nearly two seconds slower than the fractionally more powerful Porsche Cayman S.
Designed with comfort and refinement as priorities, there’s a small amount of body roll in corners, and it’s a little hesitant to turn in. Disappointingly, when the limit of grip arrives, it’s the front tyres that surrender first. The tin-top also lacks the eagerness and quick-witted reactions to finish higher up our ranking.
BMW has built a great roadster, and you can’t help but enjoy its well engineered quality. However, it doesn’t quite offer the fun factor and sharp personality to be a truly engaging performance car.
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