Autoblog

BMW Zagato Coupe clears its throat for the crowds at Villa d'Este

Noah Joseph — Tue, 29 May 2012 15:58:00 EST

Filed under: Concept Cars, Coupe, Performance, Videos, BMW, Misc. Auto Shows, Design/Style

Goodbye Bangle, hello Zagato. While the BMW design ethos may be best known for the aggressive flame-surfacing language, it took a decidedly different approach at the Concorso d'Eleganza Villa d'Este this weekend when it unveiled the Zagato Coupé concept.

Deduced to be based on the current Z4, the Zagato Coupé was coachbuilt by the famed Milanese design studio into the swoopy Kamm-tailed prototype you see here. Word on the Italian lakeshore is that, along with the new shape, BMW has also increased the coupe's output to 400 horsepower - presumably from the 3.0-liter twin-turbo straight six that produces 340 horsepower in the top-of-the-line Z4 sDrive35is.

But don't take our word for it - watch the video below to listen to the fully functional concept car kick over as Andrea Zagato drives his latest creation from the lawn across the judging booth at Villa d'Este.

Continue reading BMW Zagato Coupe clears its throat for the crowds at Villa d'Este

BMW Zagato Coupe clears its throat for the crowds at Villa d'Este originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 29 May 2012 15:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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BMW bringing Z4 GT3 to North America, but still no Z4 M

Noah Joseph — Thu, 27 Oct 2011 16:00:00 EST

Filed under: Convertible, Performance, BMW, Racing

There's something rotten in the state of Bavaria when BMW's M division is more keen to tune out crossovers than roadsters. While the previous-generation Z4 and the Z3 that preceded it both had M versions, the current Z4 has been conspicuously absent from the hall's of the BMW performance division. That could all change if the bean-counters see a good business case for a Z4 M, but in the meantime we're reportedly slated to get something even crazier: the V8-powered Z4 GT3.

The competition-spec model loses the folding roof in favor of a fixed one reinforced by a full roll cage. It also gets racing slicks and a much more aggressive aero package. But the fun part is the V8 engine from the outgoing M3, tuned to 480 horsepower and paired with a six-speed sequential gearbox.

Inside Line has it on good authority that the Z4 GT3 will soon be available to privateer racers in America, but it will, of course, be restricted to closed tracks. And considering it costs the equivalent of over $400,000 in Europe, it hardly fills the gap left by the absence of the street-legal Z4 M we're still pining for.

BMW bringing Z4 GT3 to North America, but still no Z4 M originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 27 Oct 2011 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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BMW Z4 Roadster to be first four-cylinder offered on U.S. shores in decades

Jeff Glucker — Mon, 18 Apr 2011 14:26:00 EST

Filed under: Convertible, Technology, BMW

2011 BMW Z4 - Click above for high-res image gallery

Forced-induction, four-cylinder engines and small cars go together likes punch and pie. BMW understands this, and the automaker has officially announced that the Z4 is the first U.S. model to get its new turbocharged mill. This marks the first time in decades that BMW is bringing a four-banger to U.S. shores. Fans of the 2002, rejoice.

The BMW Z4 sDrive28i Roadster will serve up its engine bay for the new turbocharged 2.0-liter inline-four. Output is rated at 240-horsepower at 5,000 rpm and 260 pound-feet of torque, which arrives at just 1,250 rpm. Using a combination of direct-injection, BMW's Valvetronic intake management and a twin-scroll turbo allows the engine to produce V6 power with I4 efficiency. BMW expects to see a 20 percent improvement in fuel efficiency compared to the outgoing motor. The eight-speed automatic transmission will also certainly help the Z4 in the fuel economy fight.

No word yet on pricing or a date when we can see the turbocharged Z4 sitting in dealer showrooms. Click past the jump to read the full press release.

Gallery: 2011 BMW Z4 sDrive30i

[Source: BMW]

Continue reading BMW Z4 Roadster to be first four-cylinder offered on U.S. shores in decades

BMW Z4 Roadster to be first four-cylinder offered on U.S. shores in decades originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 18 Apr 2011 14:26:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Geneva 2011: AC Schnitzer comes strong with sporty diesel BMW Z4, tuned 550i [w/videos]

Aaron Richardson — Thu, 03 Mar 2011 14:01:00 EST

Filed under: Aftermarket, Concept Cars, Convertible, Sedan, Performance, Geneva Motor Show, Europe, BMW, Specialty, Diesel

2011 AC Schnitzer 99d - Click above for high-res image gallery

AC Schnitzer has showed up at the Geneva Motor Show with not one, but two fresh-off-the-press upgrade packages for 2011.

Not wanting to look completely unfriendly to Mother Earth, AC Schnitzer has taken their expertise to the Z4 and BMW's EfficientDynamics system, working over a 320d mill to go under the Z4's hood. The 2011 AC Schnitzer 99d gets a 70-hp boost to 190, hits 60 in 6.9 seconds, releases a scant 99g of C02 per mile and returns a handsome 63 mpg in the European cycle. That, according to Schnitzer, is better than any BMW on the market. Unfortunately, the 99d is just a concept, and won't be available to the public any time soon.

For the family minded executives attending the show, AC Schnitzer started with the 2011 BMW 550i, bumping the car from 407 to 540 horsepower. According to Schnitzer, the result is a 4.5-second 0-60 sprint and a whopping 198 mph top end. The engine exhales through a new set of the tuner's own mufflers capped with chrome surrounds. The resulting executive express has been dubbed the ACS5 Sport S.

Hauling all that energy to a stop is a revised set of brakes sporting eight-piston calipers. Outside, Schnitzer went all-out to ensure that the car would be stable at its newfound velocity. The laundry list of exterior mods includes a front spoiler, carbon ducts for the brakes, new engine bay vents and, of course, your choice of 20 or 21-inch AC Schnitzer custom wheels.

Check out the official videos and press releases after the jump.

Gallery: AC Schnitzer 99d: Geneva 2011

Gallery: AC Schnitzer ACS5 Sport S: Geneva 2011

Photos copyright (C)2011 Drew Phillips / AOL

[Source: AC Schnitzer]

Continue reading Geneva 2011: AC Schnitzer comes strong with sporty diesel BMW Z4, tuned 550i [w/videos]

Geneva 2011: AC Schnitzer comes strong with sporty diesel BMW Z4, tuned 550i [w/videos] originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 03 Mar 2011 14:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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BMW releases limited Z4 Silver Top edition for Japan

Noah Joseph — Wed, 10 Nov 2010 10:28:00 EST

Filed under: Convertible, Japan, BMW, Luxury

BMW Z4 Silver Top Edition - Click above for high-res image gallery

BMW has a strong following in the Land of the Rising Sun, and has been gracing it with a number of special editions over the past several years. We recently reported on the 120i Performance Unlimited edition, and now BMW Japan has followed up with the new Silver Top edition of the Z4 roadster.

As you might have guessed the Silver Top is distinguished by its silver top. The contrast with the black body color gives it a rather Zagato-like profile, and the mirror housings get the same treatment. In case the look wasn't complete enough, the interior has been decked out in red leather as well. It's based on the sDrive23i trim level, pairing the 2.5-liter six with the six-speed automatic transmission.

Only 15 examples will be offered exclusively in Japan with a 5.590 million yen sticker price - about $69k by today's conversion rates - with deliveries slated to arrive in April 2011. Your best chance of seeing one, then, is likely the image gallery we've put together for your viewing pleasure, so check it out.

Gallery: BMW Z4 Silver Top Edition

[Source: BMW Japan via Jon Sibal]

BMW releases limited Z4 Silver Top edition for Japan originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 10 Nov 2010 10:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Video: How to build a BMW Z4 GT3 in 600 hours

Jeff Glucker — Thu, 09 Sep 2010 13:32:00 EST

Filed under: Motorsports, Coupe, Performance, Videos, BMW

Time-lapse video of a BMW Z4 GT3 coming to life - Click above to watch the video after the jump

The BMW Z4 GT3 is a fixed-roof, race-ready version of the standard Z4. Instead of a straight six, the Z4 GT3 is powered by a 480-horsepower 4.0-liter V8 coupled to a six-speed sequential gearbox. Designed and engineered for the track, this Z4 definitely means business - just look at it. You can purchase your own version for around $400,000, and after paying that price, you can have your new track assassin shipped to you... in pieces.

BMW ships the car out in boxes and it's up to the proud new owner to put it together. Recently, Swedish race crew, Team West Coast Racing, did just that. The entire build took them 600 hours and they kept a camera rolling during that period. A time-lapse video captures the action as bare chassis becomes complete racer. 600 hours is 25 days, and 25 days is a long time to wait in between track sessions. In this case, the wait seems worth it and you can see the build video for yourself after the jump.

Gallery: BMW Z4 GT3

[Source: Cold Track Days]

Continue reading Video: How to build a BMW Z4 GT3 in 600 hours

Video: How to build a BMW Z4 GT3 in 600 hours originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 09 Sep 2010 13:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Report: BMW Z4 and Mazda3 face NHTSA scrutiny over power steering failures

Sam Abuelsamid — Mon, 05 Jul 2010 08:46:00 EST

Filed under: Recalls, Safety, BMW, Mazda

2009 BMW Z4 sDrive30i - Click above for high-res image gallery

Following all the criticism federal regulators received earlier this year for letting Toyota safety defects go unaddressed, everyone is taking a closer look customer complaints. The 2007-9 Mazda3 and the 2003-5 BMW Z4 are both being investigated by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration following consumer complaints about a loss of power steering assist. Three Mazda crashes and one BMW accident are being blamed on the steering issue.

Although the specific circumstances vary for each of the vehicles, in either case the loss of assist results in significantly increased effort to turn the steering wheel. The Mazda uses an electro-hydraulic assist system and Mazda issued a technical service bulletin (TSB) in 2009 related to this issue. Contamination in the pump can cause it slow down reducing the available assist. A TSB is sent out to dealers to correct an issue if a car comes in for service or a customer complains but fall short of a full recall. The Z4 has an electric power steering system that seems to have issues at higher speeds and temperatures.

Gallery: Review: 2010 BMW Z4 sDrive35i

Photos by Sam Abuelsamid / Max Abuelsamid / Copyright (C)2009 Weblogs, Inc.
[Source: BusinessWeek]

Report: BMW Z4 and Mazda3 face NHTSA scrutiny over power steering failures originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 05 Jul 2010 08:46:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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BMW to build limited edition Z4 sDrive35is Mille Miglia

Jeremy Korzeniewski — Thu, 06 May 2010 19:22:00 EST

Filed under: Motorsports, Classics, Convertible, Performance, BMW, Luxury, Racing

2010 BMW Z4 sDrive35is Mille Miglia Limited Edition - Click above for high-res image gallery

In celebration of the 70th anniversary of its historic victory in the famed Mille Miglia automobile race in Brescia, when the classic BMW 328 not only finished in first place but also in third, fifth and sixth places, thereby ensuring overall team victory as well, the German automaker has announced that it will build just 99 examples of the limited edition Z4 sDrive35is Mille Miglia.

Setting this car apart from other Z4s, each Mille Miglia edition will be finished in a coat of matte Polaris Metallic with a blacked-out front grill, an M aero kit and 19-inch wheels finished in Dark Chrome. Inside, the seats and steering wheel will get a dash of red stitching. And of course, the limited edition model will also get unique badging inside and out.

Power will come from the standard 340-horsepower turbocharged 3.0-liter inline six, mated up to a seven-speed dual-clutch gearbox. In somewhat related news, BMW has also recreated a classic 328 Kamm Coupé to take part in this year's Mille Miglia festivities. Check out the press release after the break for more.

Gallery: 2010 BMW Z4 sDrive35is Mille Miglia Limited Edition

Gallery: BMW 328 at the 1940 Mille Miglia

[Source: BMW via BMWBlog]

Continue reading BMW to build limited edition Z4 sDrive35is Mille Miglia

BMW to build limited edition Z4 sDrive35is Mille Miglia originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 06 May 2010 19:22:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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BMW Z4 GT3 is the V8-powered Z4 M you can race

Steven J. Ewing — Thu, 04 Mar 2010 12:28:00 EST

Filed under: Motorsports, Coupe, BMW, Racing

BMW Motorsport Z4 GT3 - Click above for high-res image gallery

Late last year we told you that BMW would be creating a race-ready Z4 GT3 for customers who participate in motorsports, and we now have official images of the too-hot Z4 in all of its glory. We've always liked the styling of the Z4-based coupes, and this GT3 spec is certainly a looker.

BMW has shoehorned the M3's 4.0-liter V8 under the hood of the Z4 GT3, and when managed by a Type-408 ECU and Power400 control unit, the high-revving V8 cranks out a whopping 480 horsepower, and a six-speed sequential gearbox sends all of that power to the rear wheels. ABS and central-locking wheels are standard, and for consumers who want an extra touch of civilization, air conditioning is optional.

BMW will be offering the Z4 GT3 to consumers in the second half of this year, with an estimated price of around 298,000 Euro (that's over $405,000 based on current exchange rates). Hit the jump for the official words from BMW Motorsport.

Gallery: BMW Motorsport Z4 GT3

[Source: BMW Motorsport]

Continue reading BMW Z4 GT3 is the V8-powered Z4 M you can race

BMW Z4 GT3 is the V8-powered Z4 M you can race originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 04 Mar 2010 12:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Detroit 2010: BMW Z4 sDrive35is looks far more entertaining than its name

Chris Paukert — Tue, 12 Jan 2010 10:28:00 EST

Filed under: Convertible, Performance, BMW

2011 BMW Z4 sDrive35is - Click above for high-res image gallery

We're not sure why BMW is reticent to put forth a new Motorsports model of its Z4 folding hardtop convertible, but it has effectively introduced such a model in all but name here at the Detroit Auto Show. Inscrutably dubbed Z4 sDrive35is (we're guessing you can hit extralegal speeds by the time you successfully spit out its name), the new model features a revised twin-turbo 3.0-liter inline-six that spits out 340 horsepower and 332 pound-feet of torque, with an overboost function capable of a momentary bump up to 369 torques. Paired with BMW's seven-speed Sport Automatic dual-clutch transmission, the drivetrain is good for 0-62 miles-per-hour in in 4.8 seconds.

Additional alterations include a ride height that's lowered by 10 millimeters thanks to the adaptive M suspension, a revamped front fascia with matte aluminum trim bars, Oxide Silver mirror caps, and 19-inch alloys among other niceties - you can check out the complete roster of changes by checking out the press release after the jump.

M badges or no, we want one.

Gallery: 2011 BMW Z4 sDrive35is at Detroit Auto Show

Gallery: 2011 BMW Z4 sDrive35is

[Source: BMW]

Continue reading Detroit 2010: BMW Z4 sDrive35is looks far more entertaining than its name

Detroit 2010: BMW Z4 sDrive35is looks far more entertaining than its name originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 12 Jan 2010 10:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Review: 2009 BMW Z4 sDrive30i is an easy lover

Sam Abuelsamid — Wed, 23 Dec 2009 11:57:00 EST

Filed under: Convertible, Performance, BMW, New Car Reviews

2009 BMW Z4 sDrive30i - Click above for high-res image gallery

BMW's storied history of building roadsters dates back to the original 328 of the 1930s. However, there have been gaps in the brand's open-top lineage, including one extended stretch through the '60s, '70s and '80s. After a dalliance with the bizarre European market Z1, BMW finally got serious about roadsters again in the '90s with the introduction of the Z3.

Earlier this year, the Munich brand introduced what's essentially the third generation of its modern mainline roadster (discounting the aforementioned low-volume Z1 and the Z8) in the shape of its all-new Z4. Upon its introduction, the esteemed Mr. Harley took our first crack at the new "E89" at its Southern California launch last spring and came away with mixed feelings.

To be fair, whenever an automaker builds a new model, there's always a distinction between what the engineers and designers expect of it and what consumers bank on. There's also a big difference between spending a few hours on a prescribed driving route under controlled conditions versus living with a car as a daily driver for a week or longer. So we wanted to spend time with the Z4 on more familiar turf to see what life is like with BMW's newest roadster.

Gallery: Review: 2010 BMW Z4 sDrive35i

Continue reading Review: 2009 BMW Z4 sDrive30i is an easy lover

Review: 2009 BMW Z4 sDrive30i is an easy lover originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 23 Dec 2009 11:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Autoblog Podcast #158 - 'Twas a few days before Christmas

Dan Roth — Tue, 22 Dec 2009 18:17:00 EST

Filed under: Detroit Auto Show, Podcasts, Audi, BMW, Buick, Chevrolet, Chrysler, GM, GMC, Spyker, Rumormill

Click above for the Autoblog Podcast in iTunes, RSS or listen now!

'Twas a couple nights before Christmas, and in the Autoblog house, Paukert and Shunk got Roth off the couch... For episode #158 of the Autoblog Podcast! What better way to get into the holiday spirit than an hour and a half of new Podcast? It's fresher than egg nog this week, as the trio chews on the return of the 5.0 in the Ford Mustang, Audi's more sane torque numbers for the E-Tron, and what may yet be a Christmas miracle: Spyker's dogged pursuit of Saab. Rounding out the sextet of topics are the Alfa Giulietta and its potential as a Chrysler, the BMW Z4 GT3, and General Motors' plan to bring the Buick Regal GS to the North American International Auto Show in Detroit, where it will also debut a Chevrolet Orlando-based vehicle called the GMC Granite.

For the long holiday drives, our colleagues at Joystiq and Engadget do fine work. Let us know what you think of our podcast by dropping us an email at Podcast at Autoblog dot com, reviewing the show in iTunes, filling out our survey, or even leaving us a voicemail on our Google Voice line 734-288-8POD (734-288-8763). Thanks for listening!

Continue reading Autoblog Podcast #158 - 'Twas a few days before Christmas

Autoblog Podcast #158 - 'Twas a few days before Christmas originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 22 Dec 2009 18:17:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Autoblog Podcast #157 - Mike Levine trucks along with us!

Dan Roth — Tue, 15 Dec 2009 13:40:00 EST

Filed under: Podcasts, Hybrid, Truck, Etc., BMW, Chevrolet, Chrysler, Dodge, Ford, Mercedes-Benz, Toyota, Electric

Click above for the Autoblog Podcast in iTunes, RSS or listen now!

Our friend Mike Levine from Pickuptrucks.com joins Chris, Sam and Dan for Episode #157 of The Autoblog Podcast, bringing his vast knowledge of all that is crew-cabbed and full framed. Of course, we start off with what we're driving and dreamy talk about the Dodge Ram Power Wagon, but the real meat and potatoes news items begin with a peek at the Mercedes-Benz E-Class cabrio. Staying with Ms. Jellinek's namesake brand, the crew ponders the idea of an electric SLS supercar. Staying charged, we move right into Toyota's recent hybrid news - a tease of an all new hybrid that we'll see at the 2010 Detroit Auto Show, and today's announcement of a PHEV Prius. Hybrid pickups come up before we move on to the BMW's Z4 sDrive35is and then questions. One hour, thirty minutes, in time for your Tuesday pick-me-up.

For more listening pleasure check out our colleagues at Joystiq and Engadget, and let us know what you think of our podcast by dropping us an email at Podcast at Autoblog dot com, reviewing the show in iTunes, filling out our survey, or even leaving us a voicemail on our Google Voice line 734-288-8POD (734-288-8763). Thanks for listening!

Continue reading Autoblog Podcast #157 - Mike Levine trucks along with us!

Autoblog Podcast #157 - Mike Levine trucks along with us! originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 15 Dec 2009 13:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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BMW plant in Spartanburg, SC produces 1.5 millionth vehicle

Jonathon Ramsey — Thu, 10 Sep 2009 09:28:00 EST

Filed under: Plants/Manufacturing, BMW

BMW invaded the South in 1993, and it's first U.S.-made product was popped out in September a year later. Fifteen years after that there have been five factory expansions, 5,000 jobs created, a methane gas pipeline installed, a center for automotive research created, a golf tournament started, and 1.5 million combined versions of the 318i, Z3, Z4, X5 and X6 run over the factory threshold. The 1.5 millionth vehicle was an Oyster Blue and Ivory X6 for a Hong Kong customer. Just goes to show those Confederates might have been right: the South is rising again... You can read all about it in the presser after the jump.

[Source: BMW]

Continue reading BMW plant in Spartanburg, SC produces 1.5 millionth vehicle

BMW plant in Spartanburg, SC produces 1.5 millionth vehicle originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 10 Sep 2009 09:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Manhart Racing drops the BMW V10 into the Z4 roadster

Noah Joseph — Thu, 27 Aug 2009 15:20:00 EST

Filed under: Aftermarket, Convertible, Performance, BMW

Manhart BMW Z4 V10 - Click above for high-res image gallery

The first snow? A pastel sunset? Come on, we're car guys and there are few things we love more than a big engine in a small roadster. It's the formula that put Carroll Shelby on the map, and it's very much alive today thanks to a small cadre of niche manufacturers and aftermarket tuners, a disproportionate share of them residing in Germany.

Just a few days ago we brought you news of the Wiesmann MF5 Roadster, set to debut at the upcoming Frankfurt show with a BMW M5 ten-cylinder engine packed into a little retro roadster. But if your taste veers more towards the modern than the throwback, Manhart Racing may have just the thing for you. The German tuning firm has shoehorned that same 500-hp, 5.0-liter DOHC 40-valve V10 - known in Bavaria as the SB85B50 - into the BMW Z4.

The mod job wasn't finished with the engine swap, however. Manhart also switched the transmission and differential, installed an AC Schnitzer exhaust, HJS cats and in the process just happened to have disabled the electronic speed limiter. The resultant 550 hp output in a 1450-kg package gives the ten-cylinder roadster a power-to-weight ratio of 2.6kg per HP, which places it firmly in supercar territory. (The flyweight Ferrari 430 Scuderia, for reference, packs 2.45 kg/hp.) 0-60 comes in a claimed 3.9 seconds, and we have little reason to doubt it. That is, assuming you can get all that power down through the upgraded 285/30ZR19 rear tires and keep it in a straight line with the 235/35ZR19 mounted on blacked-out BBS Challenge rims. We just hope they've upgraded the brakes to go along with the extra power. Details in the press release after the jump.

Gallery: Manhart Racing BMW Z4 V10

[Source: Manhart Racing]

Continue reading Manhart Racing drops the BMW V10 into the Z4 roadster

Manhart Racing drops the BMW V10 into the Z4 roadster originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 27 Aug 2009 15:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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VIDEO: Top Gear pits BMW Z4 against Nissan 370Z

Chris Shunk — Mon, 27 Jul 2009 19:58:00 EST

Filed under: Coupe, Videos, BMW, Nissan

Click above to watch video after the jump

The Nissan 370Z and the BMW Z4 are two seriously sporty offerings headed in two different directions. The Z4 is softer, heavier and more stylish than its predecessor, while the 370Z is harder, lighter and takes some risks with its exterior. The 370Z is a coupe (although it available in a drop-top), and the Z4 has a stow-able aluminum roof. The BMW is a genuine luxury car offering, while the 370Z sits on the lot next to the Quest and the Versa. However, the two vehicles share similar dimensions and performance numbers, and both contain the letter "zed," giving Top Gear enough reason to pit the two coupes against each another on the test track.

Make the jump to see how the duo of Zs fare in Clarkson's review while we try to figure out how the BBC can afford Jurassic Park-style CG.

Continue reading VIDEO: Top Gear pits BMW Z4 against Nissan 370Z

VIDEO: Top Gear pits BMW Z4 against Nissan 370Z originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 27 Jul 2009 19:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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New York: BMW expresses joy with new Z4

Sam Abuelsamid — Wed, 08 Apr 2009 10:02:00 EST

Filed under: New York Auto Show, Convertible, BMW

BMW Z4 joymobile - Click above for high-res image gallery

The latest addition to the long running series of BMW art cars is this Z4. Unlike previous art cars where the machine was the canvas, the z4 you see above was actually used as the paint brush. When BMW unveiled the new 2009 Z4 at the Detroit Auto Show, they showed a video of artist Robin Rhodes creating a massive painting using a Z4 with its wheels dripping with red and green paint. For the last two weeks, the car and two of the painted panels have been on display with several of the earlier art cars at Grand Central Station, but they've now been moved into the Jacob Javits Center for the New York Auto Show. We were walking by this morning and thought you might enjoy some car art with your coffee. Check out photos of Z4 art car in our high-res gallery below.

Gallery: New York: BMW Z4 Art Car

New York: BMW expresses joy with new Z4 originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 08 Apr 2009 10:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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BMW Z4 priced from $46,575

Chris Shunk — Sat, 28 Mar 2009 17:03:00 EST

Filed under: Car Buying, Convertible, BMW

The BMW Z4 is all new for 2010, and the updated roadster will be ready for production later this spring. BMW gave the Z4 sleeker sheet metal, a folding hard top, and upgraded powertrains, but the biggest change could be to its price tag. Buyers looking for a new Z4 can expect to plunk down $46,575. That's a big jump from the base $36,700 of the 2008 Z4, which packed less power and less road presence. The 46 large is also exactly the same price as the Z4's nemesis; the Porsche Boxster. The 2010 model will net you a 258-horsepower inline six capable of hitting 60 mph in 5.8 seconds. The base Bimmer will also come standard with leatherette seating surfaces (upgrading to Kansas leather tacks on another $1,250).

The 306-horsepower, twin-turbo Z4 sDrive35i will cost a whole lot more, with a starting price of $52,475, including destination and handling. The 2008 Z4 M was a bit cheaper at $50,400 and carried more power, but the 2010 car's higher torque numbers make for an equally-quick droptop, as evidenced by its 5.1 second 0-60 time with the dual-clutch gear box.

Options abound for the Z4, and they're both expensive and confusing. Bundles include a Premium package at $3,900, or $2,800 when also ordering the $2,300 Sport package, which is $1,900 when also going premium. You can also get a performance 19-inch tire and wheel package for $1,200, but only if you purchase the sDrive35i and the Sport package. A seven-speed dual-clutch gearbox can be had on the 35i for $1,525. For complete pricing options, check out BMW's Z4 pricing sheet.

Gallery: 2009 BMW Z4

[Source: BMW Blog]

BMW Z4 priced from $46,575 originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 28 Mar 2009 17:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Give this 550-hp V10 Hartge BMW Z4 a home

Noah Joseph — Tue, 30 Dec 2008 12:31:00 EST

Filed under: Aftermarket, Tuners, Convertible, Auctions, BMW

Click above for image gallery of Hartge's V10-powered BMW Z4

Here at Autoblog, we cherish the simple things in life. Like a cold beer on a hot afternoon, spending the holidays with family or stuffing an oversized engine into a little sportscar. It's a time-honored tradition, and this example is no less worthy than any that has come before.

Evidently unsatisfied with the S54B32 inline-six powering the top-of-the-line Z4 M, one European enthusiast dropped in the 5.0-liter V10 from the M5 and M6 into his little Z4. But even the stock 507 horses from the high-revving ten wasn't enough for this Bimmerphile, so he went with Hartge's 550-hp version, complemented by the tuner's own 20-inch rims, but, worryingly, no sign of upgraded brakes to go with the 200+ extra horsepower. The converted roadster cost €170k new, but is now on the market for under €98k (tax in), or about $138,000 in American greenbacks. A hefty sum for sure, but can you really put a price on 0-60 in under 4?

Gallery: Hartge V10 BMW Z4

[Source: Autogespot via CarScoop]

Give this 550-hp V10 Hartge BMW Z4 a home originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 30 Dec 2008 12:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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BMW uses 2010 Z4 as art car (of sorts)

Jonathon Ramsey — Fri, 19 Dec 2008 19:58:00 EST

Filed under: Convertible, Coupe, Etc., Marketing/Advertising, BMW, Australia

Click above for a high-res gallery of the Z4 painting "An Expression of Joy"

Normally the models in BMW's art car line -- sixteen and counting -- get their body panels splashed up with designs by the who's who of the art world. BMW has decided to switch up the concept for a commercial for the new Z4; instead of the car being the canvas, the Z4 paints a canvas. Guided by modern artist Robin Rhode and a team of technicians, the Z4 is rigged up with machines that spray paint from the wheels, with everything captured on film by director Jake Scott, Ridley's son. The tire prints in all kinds of hues are laid down on an enormous white canvas, and the result is called "An Expression of Joy." You can check out the press release after the jump, the high-res gallery of images below, and Wallpaper magazine has behind the scenes video. If you like what you see, you might even be able to buy a slice of it in due time.

Gallery: BMW Z4 Painting Canvas

Continue reading BMW uses 2010 Z4 as art car (of sorts)

BMW uses 2010 Z4 as art car (of sorts) originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 19 Dec 2008 19:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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