The BMW Z4 M40i Roadster.
Anything not an SUV is not a popular vehicle these days. That’s unless it’s a specialty car like the BMW Z4 M40i. This two-seat sport roadster is one of the latest examples of the BMW’s Ultimate Driving Machine. Napleton News spent a weeklong stint cutting corners in the BMW Z4 M40i. It’s the type of vehicle that makes you want to take the long way home, whichever way your route may take you. Hop in, put on some 40 block suntan lotion and let’s hit the road with one of BMW’s latest fun machines.
The BMW Z4 M40i is a luxury sport roadster that competes against cars like the Porsche Boxster and the Audi TT. It even shares some bones with the Toyota Supra coupe.
The Z4 is available in two flavors:
These differ by trim levels and engine choices. The Z4 sDrive30i gets its power from a 2.0-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine that delivers 255 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque. Our M40i tester included the 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-6 cylinder engine that brings 382 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque. Both engines utilize a quick-shifting 8-speed automatic transmission.
The BMW and the Supra share the same base 2.0-liter turbo four-cylinder engine. The BMW offers both an 8-speed automatic transmission while the Supra offers a choice between the automatic and a no-upcharge six-speed manual transmission on six-cylinder Supras. But this story is about the BMW Z4, so let’s get back to it.
If you squint, the BMW Z4 M40i may appear a bit like a Porsche 911 convertible. Here, the Zed 4 is only available as a roadster/convertible. If you require a hardtop, you’d do best to stop by your local Toyota dealership. While both vehicles share platform, the BMW is exclusively a convertible.
The BMW comprises sexy lines, broad shoulders and an appealing rear that features the classic good looks of a sports car built with purpose, or zweck as they say in Germany. Popping open the trunk shows enough space that looks large enough to carry a pair of roll-a-board suitcases.
Driver-oriented from the get-go, the BMW Z4 reminds us of how proper sports cars were designed in days gone by. Sure, it’s low, and care must be taken getting in. Once inside, though, it fits like a glove. Reach for the controls on the sides of the seat to open or close the seat bolsters as needed.
Adjust the mirrors and steering wheels and buckle up. It’s time to go. There are a variety of adjustments that help you personalize the car to your tastes. But cupholders are seemingly missing in action. Oh wait. They are in the underarm cubby hole in the center console. It’s an awkward placement that will keep the lid open and take away some of your armrest, but that’s what happens when space is tight, as it is here.
If there’s a bone to pick, it’s over the lack of ventilated seating. It is missing here, probably due to space constraints but it does manage to warm up inside this hot little two-seater. The BMW Z4 is no lightweight by any stretch, so what’s a few more pounds amongst friends.
Starting the Z4 is a normal affair, with the engine firing from a button push. A momentary roar blips, then settles the throttle of the straight six. Once in drive, the Z4 begins an eager-to-please run through the cogs of the ZF-based transmission, depending on the pressure from your right foot, and your speed.
This BMW is one of those eager to please vehicles and one that you just think where you want it to go, and then it does. It’s a case of the driver “being the car.” Put another way, the car and driver become one. As cliché as it may sound, there’s no other phrase for it.
Acceleration is quick, even though the exhaust note makes it sound a little weenie, if you know what we mean. Instead, the Z4 M40i speaks through its handling and acceleration rather than any sharp notes coming from the tailpipe.
The dynamic nature of the car is how the Z4 makes a statement.
2023 BMW Z4 M40i Specifications | |
| Popular Powertrains | |
| Engine Type | 3.0-liter turbocharged I-6 |
| Horsepower | 382 hp @ 5,000 rpm |
| Torque | 369 lb-ft @ 1,600 rpm |
| Transmission | 8-speed automatic transmission |
| Fuel Economy | 26mpg (23 city/31 hwy) |
| Suspension F/R | Macpherson struck /Multi-link |
| Turning Circle | 36.1 ft. |
| Also Available | 2.0-liter turbocharged I-4 |
Specs | |
| Warranty | 4 years/50,000 miles |
| Powertrain Warranty | 4 years/50,000 miles |
| NHTSA Safety Rating | Not Rated |
| Max Seating Capacity | 2 |
| Wheelbase | 97.2 inches |
| Overall Length | 170.7 inches |
| Width | 73.4 inches |
| Height | 51.4 inches |
| Headroom, Front | 38.9 inches |
| Legroom, Front | 42.2 inches |
| Headroom, Rear | N/A |
| Legroom, Rear | N/A |
| Shoulder Room, Front | 54.3 inches |
| Shoulder, Rear | N/A |
| Cargo Space | 9.9 cubic feet |
This post was published on March 12, 2024
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