Next generation BMW Z4 to get folding hard top, possibly M3's V8
We're seen the spy shots, so the revelation that BMW's next generation Z4 will be equipped with a folding hard top isn't much of a surprise. The mules undergoing testing show a two-piece metal unit that should be able to fold neatly into the trunk, while not infringing too heavily on luggage space.More importantly, the new Z4 will be sporting a range of engine offerings, including an array of four- and six-cylinder mills, including the much-loved twin-turbo, 3.0-liter six found in the 135i, 335i and 535i. Additionally, AutoExpress dropped the bomb that a diesel engine will be fitted to the Z4 for the first time and that BMW might try to squeeze the 4.0-liter V8 found in the M3 into the Z4's lengthy hood.
All new Z4s will come equipped with BMW's Efficient Dynamics systems, featuring start/stop engine technology and some form of regenerative braking to boost electrical efficiency while reducing C02 emissions. The Z4's length is expected to increase by around an inch and it's due to hit dealers sometime in late 2009.
[Source: AutoExpress]
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Reader Comments (Page 1 of 2)
gabriel 7:14AM (4/07/2008)
since slk has a hard top...
slk>Z4
get me a hard top of z4 and its my next car !!
http://www.nightology.net
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Reality_check 10:54AM (4/07/2008)
Makes more sense that the M variant will carry the current M3 V8, while the normal Z4 will have the TWIN-TURBO 6-INLINE.
Hike15 7:23AM (4/07/2008)
z4 with m3 engine against slk 55
z4>>>>>>>SLK 55
that will be awsome
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RCL1221 7:25AM (4/07/2008)
This is nice and all... but how many 100's of pounds will it gain?
Is the lightweight roadster really a thing of the past?
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zamafir 10:54AM (4/07/2008)
from BMW? yes, they don't care to produce light cars anymore.
Robert 12:33PM (4/07/2008)
BMW, give us a Z2! It sounds like the Z4 is shifting closer to luxury away from sport, S65 engine or not.
Throwback 7:37AM (4/07/2008)
How about making the new car lighter? Have today's engineers ever head of Colin Chapman?
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HotRodzNKustoms 6:35PM (4/07/2008)
Only Lotus
almost Dr. G.. 7:47AM (4/07/2008)
i never liked the z3/4, hopefully this generation makes a styling turnaround.
im looking forward to this car.
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3seriesisking 11:39AM (4/07/2008)
The styling on the new Z4 should take out some of the awkwardness of the previous ones. From the shots I've seen like the ones above, this looks to be a really beautiful car.
DJ 8:01AM (4/07/2008)
I really like the integration of the 6-Series taillamps here. Plus the overall design looks less feminine, more muscular.
Save the V8 for a Z9 replacement, just give us the twin turbo 3.0 liter.
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Aetius 8:05AM (4/07/2008)
I don't see the need. The whole point of the Z4 is that it's nimble and light. Hard-top + V8 = weight. Does everyone need a V8 in everything these days?
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e90+335i 8:16AM (4/07/2008)
the new V8 is lighter than the I6 it replaced
also, there are people who are willing to add weight and sacrifice drive for a folding hard top. (not me though)
you're right in saying that a folding hard top doesn't really suit the Z4. But I suppose the 3 cabrio doesn't cut it for them.
Mobius_1 8:23AM (4/07/2008)
The Z4 looks awesome in person, especially from the back, muscular and athletic
And yeah, no heavy hardtop or V8 please, just stick the TTV6 in there, and save weight where possible
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PJ 10:12AM (4/07/2008)
Hope they fix the loose electric steering while they're at it. There's no excuse for BMW's pure two-seat roadster having less organic steering feel than their sedans (and even their SUVs).
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Robert 12:21PM (4/07/2008)
I went to give you a high ranking, but accidentally hit negative, sorry. The efficiency gained is no excuse for sub par steering feel in a roadster.
chris 5:24PM (4/07/2008)
I agree. I've had my Z for 5 years now and still love it, but the steering is the weak link. For my last service, I got a 335 as a loaner... if the steering felt that good, the car would be darn near perfect.
Aside from that, I love the style. The twin-turbo I6 would be great. The V8 would certainly make it the quickest in BMW's stable.
Toy Yoda 10:28AM (4/07/2008)
I guess BMW wants to compete against a Mallet Solstice. This story smells like a rumor when you consider the wonderful I6 that BMW developed for the 3 series. I would think they would just put a punchier version of it in the Z cars.
Looks like BMW is going for more weight instead of nimbleness.
It semms that the only German mfg that still sticks to lightness is Porsche, and that's relative.
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Scott 11:21AM (4/07/2008)
As noted by another poster, the V8 actually weighs LESS than the I6.
I do enjoy the legendary smoothness of a BMW I6 though!
Toy Yoda 11:47AM (4/07/2008)
It's lighter than the I6 it *replaced* which is the older I6, not the new inline turbo 6, which is the motor that I was referring to.