The sporty version of the Z4 35i was unveiled  back in December and aside from the visual enhancements, it brings out some consistent power upgrades. The 3.0L twin-turbocharged direct-fuel-injected inline-6 engine produces 335hp at 5,900 rpm and 332lb-ft of torque at 1,500-4,500 rpm. An overboost function gives the Z4 35is an whopping 369lb-ft of torque.

The engine is matted to a 7-speed DCT (dual-clutch) transmission. The Z4 35is runs from 0 to 62 mph in only 4.8 seconds, eclipsing the Boxster S’s time by 0.5sec, and has the usual maximum speed limit set at 155 mph.

Here is an excerpt from the Autocar’s review:

This new sDrive35iS variant shows that BMW is not about to let its roads slip off the radar of enthusiasts seeking an alternative to the Merc SLK and Nissan 370Z.

The reworked engine is super-responsive, with the sort of free-revving nature that makes it feel more like a normally aspirated unit than a turbocharged one. It also produces a wonderful soundtrack.

Channelling the engine’s added reserves back to the rear wheels is BMW’s seven-speed double-clutch transmission. It’s a little hesitant around town, but on the open road the shifts are more decisive and faster – especially so if you’re in the Z4’s Sport+ mode for engine, throttle and gearbox mapping.

For added entertainment and a smoother transition when closing down hard into corners, the new gearbox also introduces a hearty blip of the throttle on downchanges.

Should I buy one?

Roof up or roof down, the Z4 sDrive35iS confirms BMW commitment to the enthusiast driver. It’s just a pity that at a steep £43,615, it is even more expensive the old Z4 M roadster.

Full review continued

For the exterior, Hartge has created a new front apron that covers the air inlets, carbon fiber mirror caps, a discreet boot lid spoiler, a wind deflector, pin stripes and a four-piece exhaust system. The exterior kit can now successfully compete with the M Sport Package unveiled recently by BMW.

Known for their wheels, Hartge offers an even larger variety of alloy wheels, ranging from 18 to 20 inches in size. The ride has also been lowered due to a new suspension kit.

Inside, new upgrades are available, starting with a new set of aluminum pedals, instrument cluster and Hartge branded floor mats.

No engine upgrades are available at the moment, but expect next year to see a new engine kit.

[Source: Carscoop ]

Since we’ve driven both models in the past, we’re a bit inclined to adore more the sDrive35i model, the high-end roadster that gave us back the driving thrill we’ve been craving for, but we’re fully aware that the entry-level model in the North American market will be sufficient for a large variety of buyers.

So let’s take a look at the review as published by Autoblog.

“Our tester was a base sDrive30i, and as an entry-level model, our Bimmer was devoid of many higher-end toys like satellite navigation, which in turn meant that it had no iDrive controller. As much as the latest iteration of this all-in-one GUI controller has been improved, we were actually quite happy to have a driving environment free of such complexities, as going without seems more in keeping with the spirit of a roadster anyhow. Thankfully, in the iDrive’s place there’s a set of well arrayed and pleasingly straightforward controls.

Front and center in the console is a pleasantly short lever for rowing through the six-speed manual gearbox. Directly in front of the driver is a small, reassuringly thick-rimmed three-spoke wheel. Thankfully, it’s not so small that it obscures the large speedometer and tach that dominate the instrument cluster. As with most modern BMWs, between the analog gauges is a red-orange LCD display that displays secondary information like mileage, radio stations and so on. The readout is easily legible except when wearing polarized sunglasses.

“BMW’s (labored) sDrive30i appellation denotes the company’s normally aspirated 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder engine. While we’re just as enamored with roaring V8s as the next guy, there’s something simply sublime about a great straight-six, and it’s a BMW hallmark. Unlike a V6 of any bank angle, inline sixes are inherently balanced without having to resort to band-aids like balance shafts. While the two turbos on the sDrive35i do an excellent job of inflating the torque curve, the more moderate 220 pound-feet of our un-boosted sDrive30i arrives at an eminently usable 2,600 rpm. That means cruising around town is a smooth and effortless process that doesn’t require drawing excessive attention to one’s self by revving out the engine all the time. That is, unless you want to – in which case the six will happily spin up to nearly 7,000 rpm all day long.

In urban traffic or on the freeway, the Z4 is a happy cruiser. With the top up, it’s also a remarkably quiet place for a road trip, although you can still can still hear the pleasant engine note coming through. It’s not the glorious wail of a high strung race engine, but it does have a mechanical sound that evokes precision machined internals. With the top down and the side glass up, buffeting is surprisingly subdued – even without any sort of wind blocker. For those interested in running the numbers, a normally aspirated Z4 like our tester will scoot to 60 mph in about 5.5 seconds, yet the EPA rates the Z4 at 19 miles per gallon in the city and 28 mpg on the highway regardless of transmission choice. We saw 23 mpg in mixed driving.

If you enjoy listening to something besides the tires thrumming along on the brushed concrete or the air flowing over your head, you may want to consider a serious upgrade to the stereo system. The base entertainment system simply does not have the auditory oomph required to overcome high speed air flow. Even maxed out, the volume was totally inadequate at 70+ mph.”

Full review continued here

The BMW Z4 GT3 listed there has an estimated price of 298,000 euros ($427,000 at the current rate exchange). Yes, the estimated price is quite high and no one is denying this, but keep in mind, this is a factory built race car for top racing teams to compete in specific classes.

As part of its customer racing programme, BMW Motorsport is offering private teams another attractive car from 2010: the BMW Z4 GT3. This sports car is an impressive addition to the BMW product range and offers drivers and teams the opportunity to compete in international and national championships in accordance with GT3 regulations – such as the FIA GT3 European Championship, International GT Open and the ADAC GT Masters – as well as in 24-hour endurance races.

Not the actual car featured here

The BMW Z4 GT3 is powered by a four-litre, eight-cylinder engine producing approximately 480 bhp. When it comes to electronics, the private teams can look forward to innovative BMW solutions, which have proven themselves in the BMW M3 GT2: the engine is controlled by the modern ECU 408, while the Power400 control unit is responsible for operating all actuators. The transmission takes place via a sequential, six-speed gearbox. The scope of delivery also includes rims with locking and safety clips, as well as racing ABS and optional air conditioning.

The BMW Z4 GT3 in its racing version is available from the second quarter of 2010 at an estimated price of 298,000 Euro (plus VAT).

Interesting news, but the following question arises: will we see a Z4 GTS street car version, similar to the M3 GTS coming out next year?

But once you get to the Audi TT RS, the real competition begin….

This time, we’re going to give you the appropriate comparison and do things a bit differently. Instead of placing the information in a paragraph about each car, we are  going to display the technical specifications in its own area listing the car and all of its attributes.

Audi has long been associated with making any car sporty and have all-wheel drive comfort at the same time, i.e. RS4, S4, S5, RS6, R8, and the list can go on for miles. But one thing that Audi also knows how to do is to add a turbocharger to a small engine in their sporty AWDers and turn them into one of the best cars around.

The TT RS is no different.

BMW’s track record also shows a tendency to take small engines and turning them into big performers. Take the 2002tii, every iteration of the M3, the list could continue with several other models. The Z4 sDrive35is seems, thus far, to be no different. This time BMW only offers an automatic transmission, and it is one very well put together – 7-speed DCT.

Audi TT RS:

Engine: 2.5L turbocharged direct-fuel-injected inline-5

Transmission(s): 6-speed manual only

Power: 340bhp/332lb-ft of torque at 1,600-5,300 rpm (250 kW/ 450 Nm)

Weight: 3,196 lbs-Coupe/3,329 lbs-Convertible

0-62: 4.6-seconds

Top Speed: 155 mph/174 mph (For a nice fee, Audi will change out the stock ECU of the TT RS to give it a higher top speed)

BMW Z4 sDrive35is:

Engine: 3.0L twin-turbocharged direct-fuel-injected inline-6

Transmission: 7-speed dual-clutch only

Power: 335hp at 5,900 rpm/332lb-ft of torque at 1,500-4,500 rpm (Overboost function gives 369lb-ft)

Weight: 3,450 lbs

0-60: 4.7-seconds

Top Speed: 155 mph

As you can see, both cars match up pretty well. Official numbers show the BMW Z4 sDrive35is running from 0 to 60 mph in 4.7 seconds, slightly slower than the TT RS (4.6 seconds). With BMW’s Overboost function, the Z4 gets 37 extra torque in the taller gears, mostly between 4, 5, 6 and 7th gears.

The Z4 only comes in rear-wheel drive, while the TT RS sports the now typical quattro system. Opinions are split here, some are die hard fans of rear-wheel-drive cars while others enjoy the standard AWD Audis. Which one does better on track? Unknown at the moment, but we wouldn’t count the bimmer out.

Both cars ride 10mm lower than their normal Z4 and TT siblings, and both also have sport suspension buttons that allow you to control more of how the car will feel, drive and handle.

Design wise, both cars are stunning in their own way and biased opinions will always governance over the final choice. The Z4is looks muscular, the TTRS more “raw” and shows how far as Audi come over the years.

Since the TT RS is not offered in the U.S., the choice will be easier, but for those of you living in Europe, it might come down to the last fine details before putting the final signature on the sales papers.

To start off, the Audi TTS has been on the market a year already. It’s been shown as Audi’s answer to the more performance style of the Porsche Cayman and Boxster, along with BMW’s Z4. It comes in either coupe or convertible. It has a direct-injected, turbocharged 2.0L 4-cylinder making 265hp at 6000 rpm and 258lb-ft of torque between 2500-5000 rpm. Audi’s Quattro all-wheel drive is standard, and the only way you can option the TTS. It comes with S tronic automanual only, and does well with an Audi claimed 0-60 of 4.9 seconds for the coupe and 5.1 seconds for the convertible, respectively. With a curb weight of just 3,241lbs, the Audi is actually pretty light on its feet.

Next we have the newcomer, the BMW Z4 sDrive35is. While we have seen the Z4 sDrive35i for a year now, the sDrive35is is all new, with the award winning 3.0L twin-turbo I-6 now making 335hp at 5900 rpm and 332lb-ft of torque 1500-4500 rpm, or a peak of 369lb-ft with the Overboost function. Overboost is variable and fully automatic and is actually used more in the tall gears (4-7) than the shorter gears and gives an extra boost of torque, or 37lb-ft to be exact. Of which the new Z4 will cross that line in 4.7 seconds, according to BMW. BMW has also added direct-fuel injection to the inline-6 to help with power without compromising fuel efficiency or emissions. Its curb weight is exactly the same as the sDrive35i when equipped with DCT, 3450 lbs.

The new BMW Z4 sDrive35is comes only equipped with the 7-speed DCT transmission.

Both cars come with an dual-clutch transmission standard. The BMW’s being 7-speeds, while the Audi does just fine with its 6 forward gears. Both are also operated via the gearshift or a set of up and down paddles on the steering wheel.

One very interesting thing that BMW has incorporated in the new Z4 sDrive35is, is Brake Energy Regeneration, which helps to add power back to the motor during braking periods to give a helpful surge when your foot is reapplied to the power pedal. Audi does not offer this technology on the TTS.

The Audi TTS offers S Magnetic Ride with 10mm (0.4 inches) lower ride height to help improve handling and balance. BMW has a similar system with its DDC, or Dynamic Damping Control. The Z4 also has a 10mm lower ride height to improve balance and handling. Both systems allow you to enhance the performance characteristics of the suspension with the push of a button, which comes in handy when you want to head down some back roads to see what your car will do.

All-in-all, it comes down to which car you’d rather have. While some of us on here are BMW fans, others are Audi fans just eying up the competition. Both cars are made to be the perfect balance of performance and comfort, without ever sacrificing their German heritage.

One thing that is good to mention is, the BMW only comes in hardtop convertible form, while the Audi comes in coupe or convertible. To some people that’s very important. There are drawbacks to having a hardtop convertible, as is having a cloth convertible, or even a standard coupe. Some people like putting the top down, but they’re afraid of all of the mechanical things that could possibly go wrong. Some people don’t like a standard cloth top, because they tend to need replacing and fixing up after a number of years. Also, there is always the threat of someone using a knife to cut their way into your car. And then when you have just a standard hardtop with no folding roof, well, I think you can see where I’m going with this one already.

Note: There is a poll embedded within this post, please visit the site to participate in this post's poll.

First photos just made our way and we’re glad to share them with you in the following sDrive30i gallery.

Both front and rear bumpers receive a more aggressive look. The large air intakes at the front enhance the muscular look of the Z4 Roadster. At the rear, all models with M Sport Package feature diffuser insert in anthracite which distinguishes the sDrive35is from the regular Z4.

As in the sDrive35is model, the M Sport Package comes with two wheel choices: standard 18″ M wheels and optional 19″. M Sport Package also comes with the adaptive suspension which lowers the vehicle by 10 millimeters.

Inside, we have an M leather steering wheel, M door sills and sport seats, also as usual, the headliner anthracite. Models with manual transmissions also get a special M gear lever knob in leather design.

No pricing has been announced at this moment.

The tuned up engine produces 335 horsepower (340hp in Europe) at 5,900 rpm and 332 lb-ft in “regular mode”. An electronically-controlled overboost function can briefly increase torque under full load by another 37 lb-ft. This brings the torque peak to 369 lb-ft. The engine is matted to 7-speed Double-Clutch Transmission (DCT) with SPORT and SPORT+ driving modes. Unofficial, preliminary numbers show that the 2011 BMW Z4 sDrive35is runs from 0 to 60 mph in 4.7 seconds.

Even though it doesn’t carry the M badge, the BMW Z4 sDrive35is includes new M Sport upgrades such as adaptive M Suspension and M Aerodynamics. The adaptive M Suspension combines a ride-height reduction of 10 millimeters (almost 0.4”) with electronically controlled shock absorbers. Special M-Sport 18-inch light-alloy wheels in five-spoke design round off the sporty character of the Z4 sDrive35is. 19-inch wheels are being offered as well, at extra cost.

After the extensive photo gallery released earlier, BMW publishes a series of videos showing the new sDrive35is.

Even though not officially announced in the press release, the 2011 BMW Z4 sDrive35is is expected to cost around $61,000 in the U.S. The official debut will take place a month from now at the Detroit International Auto Show.

The sDrive35is carries under the hood an upgraded version of the popular N54 engine or in everybody’s language, the award winning six-cylinder 3.0 liter twin-turbo engine. The tuned up engine produces 335 horsepower (340hp in Europe) at 5,900 rpm and 332 lb-ft in “regular mode”. An electronically-controlled overboost function can briefly increase torque under full load by another 37 lb-ft. This brings the torque peak to 369 lb-ft.

Unofficial, preliminary numbers show that the 2011 BMW Z4 sDrive35is runs from 0 to 60 mph in 4.7 seconds. In comparison, the regular Z4 35i registers 0 to 60 mph in 5.0 seconds (5.1 manual transmission). BMW Z4 sDrive35is is limited electronically to 250 km/h or 155 mph. The engine is matted to 7-speed Double-Clutch Transmission (DCT) with SPORT and SPORT+ driving modes. The DCT also features a Launch Control function for maximum performance when accelerating from a standstill. BMW sDrive35is weighs 1,525 kg (3,362 lbs).

The significant performance boost is a direct result of a higher-flow intake that allow the turbos to spin up to higher pressure. Three big software changes were added to this upgrade model as well.

The electric power steering (EPS) features very sporty programming providing a  greater feedback  to the driver; cornering and aggressive shifting at its best.

Even though it doesn’t carry the M badge, the BMW Z4 sDrive35is includes new M Sport upgrades such as adaptive M Suspension and M Aerodynamics. The adaptive M Suspension combines a ride-height reduction of 10 millimeters (almost 0.4”) with electronically controlled shock absorbers. Special M-Sport 18-inch light-alloy wheels in five-spoke design round off the sporty character of the Z4 sDrive35is. Optional, the buyer can choose 19-inch wheels.

Design wise, the Z4 sDrive35is feature an M Sport kit with several exterior and interior components such as front bumper with a matte aluminum trim bar in each outer air intake, a rear bumper with accentuated surrounds on the tailpipes, a rear diffuser finished at top in body color and black textured surface underneath, M Steering wheel, M footrest, M door sills and floor mats. Plenty of Aluminum Carbon interior components are featured as well.

Even though not officially announced in the press release, the 2011 BMW Z4 sDrive35is is expected to cost around $61,000 in the U.S. The official debut will take place a month from now at the Detroit International Auto Show.

More air, boost, and torque: More BMW performance.

The latest Z4 model is characterized by instantaneous response to the accelerator pedal, fantastic sounds, and a free-revving spirit. The engine features increased air intake flow and increased boost pressure to release more power with the same standard of efficiency. The combination of twin low-mass turbochargers and High Precision direct injection offers an output a naturally-aspirated engine would only be able to provide through more cylinders and larger displacement.

The turbocharger system developed for the engine of the new BMW Z4 sDrive35is maintains a high output throughout the entire engine speed range. Nominal peak torque is increased to 332 lb-ft from 1,500 rpm to 4,500 rpm. Maximum output of 335 hp is delivered at 5,900 rpm.

Overboost function for athletic acceleration.

The enhanced engine management system of the BMW Z4 sDrive35is includes an electronically-controlled overboost function to briefly increase torque under full load by another 37 lb-ft. This temporary torque peak of 369 lb-ft gives the car a significant increase in acceleration. The BMW Z4 sDrive35is will complete the sprint from a standstill to 60 mph in just 4.7 seconds (preliminary). Top speed of the BMW Z4 sDrive35is is limited electronically to 250 km/h or 155 mph.

High Precision direct injection and BMW EfficientDynamics.

The BMW Z4 sDrive35is offers outstanding power and performance without an increase in fuel consumption or emissions. Its figures are expected to match those of the BMW Z4 sDrive35i with Double-Clutch Transmission on the EPA test cycle. This balance of performance and fuel efficiency results from the fundamental design and layout of the BMW inline-6, which combines twin turbochargers with High Precision direct injection. The fuel injectors operate at a pressure of up to 200 bar (2900 psi), distributing fuel in a conical spray pattern throughout the combustion chamber. Another advantage of direct fuel injection is its cooling effect which allows higher compression while reducing the possibility of detonation.
Further technologies offered under the BMW EfficientDynamics philosophy include Brake Energy Regeneration, Electric Power Steering, and on-demand operation of engine accessory units.

Signature engine sound to accompany the surge of power.

The exhaust system of the BMW Z4 sDrive35is has been tuned specifically for this model. Acoustic engineering gives the car a very unique sound pattern across the speed range. This tuned sound is the result of special baffles and a unique set of mufflers. The sound is characterized by a deep rumble with a focus on the low frequency sound range.

Enhanced Electric Power Steering.

Electric Power Steering (EPS) on the BMW Z4 sDrive35is features very sporty programming, focused to provide intense and clear steering feedback to the driver. This enables the driver to turn-in with remarkable precision and confidence at all vehicle speeds.

7-speed Double-Clutch Transmission with special programming.

The standard 7-speed Double-Clutch Transmission (DCT) in the BMW Z4 sDrive35is combines the best in driving dynamics and efficiency. A highlight is the dual-mass flywheel, configured for the higher levels of power and performance. The DCT can shift gears without the slightest interruption of power to the rear tires, and offers a choice of automatic or manual gear selection. The programming of the DCT has been tailored to complement the sporty nature of the BMW Z4 sDrive35is at every level.
When shifting gears manually or within the SPORT and SPORT+ modes of the Z4’s standard Driving Dynamics Control, the transmission offers an exciting experience through faster gearshifts and a greater increase in torque before shifting. The DCT also features a Launch Control function for maximum performance when accelerating from a standstill. The DCT is controlled by an electronic gear selector on the center console and comes with gearshift paddles on the steering wheel.

M Sport upgrades to match the new engine’s performance.

The BMW Z4 sDrive35is includes new M Sport upgrades such as M Aerodynamics and adaptive M Suspension. The adaptive M Suspension combines a ride-height reduction of 10 millimeters (almost 0.4”) with electronically controlled shock absorbers (Dynamic Damping Control) to improve the vehicle’s agility without compromising ride comfort. The M Sport upgrades emphasize the Z4’s athletic character through aerodynamically optimized exterior features and customized interior components.
Special 18-inch light-alloy wheels in five-spoke design round off the sporty character of the Z4 sDrive35is. 19-inch light-alloy wheels are available as an option. In addition to its unique wheels, the new model is further distinguished by a striking front bumper with a matte aluminum trim bar in each outer air intake, a rear bumper with accentuated surrounds on the tailpipes, and a rear diffuser finished at top in body color and black textured surface underneath.

M Sport interior enhancements and new Kansas Walnut leather.

Inside the BMW Z4 sDrive35is, the driving experience is enhanced by features such as a new thick-rimmed M leather steering wheel with gearshift paddles, an M driver’s footrest, and sport seats. Grey-faced instrument dials feature the “sDrive35is” model designation. Further features inside the Z4 sDrive35is are the Anthracite-colored BMW Individual roof lining, M door sill strips, floor mats with colored piping and the “sDrive35is” model designation, as well as M interior trim in Aluminum Carbon. The new Aluminum Carbon trim features the recognizable “weave” of natural carbon fiber interpreted on a matte aluminum base.

The range of leather upholstery is being further enhanced by an additional color variant marking the launch of the BMW Z4 sDrive35is: All versions of the Z4 Roadster are now also available in Kansas Walnut leather as an option. The BMW Z4 sDrive35is is available with a choice of six paintwork colors. In addition to Alpine White and the metallic colors Titanium Silver, Black Sapphire, Space Grey, and Deep Sea Blue, the Z4 Roadster is now available for the first time in Melbourne Red metallic. Regardless of the color chosen, the exterior mirror caps on the BMW Z4 sDrive35is are always Oxide Silver.

With its sleek lines and incredible performance the BMW Z4 fiercely beat off its competitors to scoop its award. Its combination of striking looks and innovative technologies, together with an electro-hydraulically operated Retractable Hard-Top roof and a starting price of £28,650 OTR, made it clear to see why the Z4 was such an appealing choice.

Bill Caven, President of the ASMW, said: “The Z4 boasts a fine pedigree of high performance and thrills which few can match. Matched with brilliant build quality and a slick folding roof mechanism this is the ultimate Scottish driving machine.

The BMW EfficientDynamics programme was first introduced in 2007 and incorporates a wide variety of fuel-saving and emissions-reducing measures across the whole vehicle range as standard. EfficientDynamics technology includes Auto Start-Stop, Brake Energy Regeneration and Active Aerodynamics, amongst a range of other features. The ASMW’s accolade takes BMW’s total number of awards for EfficientDynamics into double digits.

Bill Caven, President of the ASMW, said: “Different manufacturers have created different solutions to provide cleaner more efficient motoring, but BMW with its EfficientDynamics programmes have certainly provided a breath of fresh air in making us more aware of what clean should mean.”

Tim Abbott, Managing Director of BMW Group UK, said: “The Z4 has enjoyed high praise since its launch back in May and this award recognises its technical prowess and cements its position as one of the best roadsters on the market. Like all our cars, the Z4 has a number of EfficientDynamic features which help it deliver outstanding fuel economy and CO2 figures – particularly considering the performance it delivers. It is great to receive such recognition within the industry for EfficientDynamics as this programme is so closely aligned with BMW’s core values”

Today, for the first time, we have photos of a grey matte BMW Z4 E89, of course, an unofficial paint job. The “coat” is actually a combination of vinyl-film-foil and according to the owner, it costs around $2,000.

The Z4 also sports BMW 313 performance wheels with a gray/silver matte finish. Not a bad combination and definitely a car that stands out.

If the car looks different to you in these photos, it’s also because of the 14mm lens used on the camera.

[Source: zpost ]

Benny, the editor over at our BimmerToday.de sister blog, decided to step out of the boundaries and try something different: BMW Z4 vs. Porsche Cayman S. To some roadsters purists, this might seem a bit unorthodox since the Cayman S has been said to be king in its own market, but let’s take a look and see if the new BMW Z4 lived up to our expectations:

“Despite the Porsche leaving the sportier impression, the adaptive M-suspension seems to be more refined. The possibility to switch modes is extremely nice in everyday driving and due to the ergonomically positioning of the buttons, you can really switch between the drive modes every minute.

So the Z4 presents itself as a divided personality, because it’s ready for long-distance drives as well as for the sporty driving on country roads. This is where the Porsche can not keep up, because the driving comfort at long-distance travels is not at the level of the Z4.

It remains a mystery why BMW doesn’t give us high-tech features like the Head Up Display, Night Vision and Active Cruise Control, these features would have completed the long-distance capabilities.

In the end, truth is that no matter which car you choose, you won’t make the wrong decision – at long as you know what you want from a car. If you are searching for the sporty car without compromises, the Porsche will do the job better than the Z4 without a doubt. But the larger buyer group will be very satisfied with the Z4 because it offers the best out of the two worlds:

• very good driving dynamics that can be combined with a rather good long-distance comfort, the Z4 is your daily driver and not just a “weekend fling”.
• you can drive to work every day without the lack of comfort you have to live with in the Porsche – and despite that, you can have a lot of fun in the weekend at the touch of a button.

Full review and more photos (translated with Google)

Some bits of this review will be also posted by us, along with a comparison against the Porsche Cayman S. Before we jump into the four minutes video, here is a short history on the new Z4 sDrive35i.

The new roadster outputs 300 horsepower and 300 lb-ft of torque at 3,200 rpm. With a manual transmission, the new Z4 goes from still to 60 mph in 5.1 seconds, just .1 second slower than the old Z4 M. The sDrive35i weighs around 3,400 lbs. The new Z4 was designed by Juliane Blasi and Nadya Arnaout.

Z4 SDrive35i from www.mt-video.de.vu on Vimeo.

Starting with the engine, AC Schnitzer removes the speed limited and the 3.0 liter twin-turbo engine achieves now 177 mph (286 km/h). The open-top roadster from BMW accelerates from a standing start to 62 mph (100 km/h) in just 4.9 seconds. Power has been raised from the standard 306 horsepower to 360. At the same time, maximum torque achieved by the AC Schnizter Z4 is 383 lb-ft (520 Nm), a significant increased when compared to the standard (295 lb-ft) 400 Nm.

AC Schnizter upgrades the suspension variant in the Z4 with a new spring kit.

Exterior upgrades include an aerodynamic pack for the new BMW Z4 consisting of a chrome front grille and front spoiler, where both components combine to give a more muscular look to the long bonnet lines. To enhance the Z4 look even further, AC Schnizter uses new sports fenders, consisting of wheel arches with integral air outlets for improved cooling of the front brakes and chromed deflectors.

At the rear-end, a two-piece spoiler gives the the BMW Z4 by AC Schnitzer an impressive look.

Inside, we have an aluminum cover for the iDrive System Controller, aluminum foot rests and pedal set and many other branded AC Schnitzer elements.

Famous for their wheel design, the Z4 by AC Schnitzer gets two type of wheels: Type IV in 18” or Type VI wheels in 18, 19 or 20 inch.

No pricing has been announced so far, but what we know is that AC Schnizter offers a 2 year warranty up to 100,000 km on all of their components.

Here is a short summary on the austrian vineyards: “While Austria is synonymous to many for music and culture, its wines don’t have the renown that those of other European countries have.  Austria has, however, 51,213 hectares of vineyards, mostly in the eastern part of the country.

I’m visiting  the province of Niederösterreich (Lower Austria), which has over 31,000 hectares of vineyards, to be followed by a visit to Vienna (over 600 hectares but it’s the only capital city in the world to have its own wine region) and then I will visit the Burgenland, which has over 15,000 hectares.”

Trip Part 1

Next stop in his trip, the Austrian capital, Vienna, of course, a trip aboard the Z4.

“First order of business: top down. The top takes only 20 seconds to retract and it appears far more robust than earlier generation retractable hardtops, which seemed a bit fragile in construction. The interior features generous amounts of space; even with the top up, I never felt claustrophobic. With the top down, which is the way this car is meant to be driven, the cabin isn’t overly noisy or draft; with the top up, you would never know you were in a convertible.

The Z4 comes with a choice of two engines in the U.S., the naturally-aspirated 3.0-liter inline-six with 190 kW/258 hp at 6,600 rpm and 310 Nm/228 pound-feet of torque at 2,570, and the twin-turbo 3.0-liter inline-six with 225 kW/306 hp at 5,800 rpm and 400 Nm/295 pound-feet from 1,300-5,000 rpm. The NA engine does 0-100 km/h in 5.8 seconds; the twin-turbo does it in 5.2. My Z4 had a third power plant, offered in many European markets, a 2.5-liter inline six that produces 150 kW/204 hp at 6,200 rpm and 250 Nm/184 pound-feet of torque at 2,950 rpm, with 0-100 km/h in 6.6 seconds (manual transmission).”

You can read his second report here.

Manhart Racing, a German company known for “pumping up” the power in cars by replacing the original engine with a more powerful one, decided to give a present to the Z4 fans. Taking a stock Z4, Manhart managed to turn it into a powerful Z4 M featuring a V10 powerplant.

The 5.0 liter V10 engine from the M5 produces 550 horsepower and takes the tuned up Z4 M from 0 to 60 mph in JUST 3.9 seconds.

For stability, the Manhart Z4 M V10 uses the perfectly tuned Bilstein B16 PSS10 coilovers, the virtually unrestrained power of 550 HP can be brought under control to the tarmac. Black BBS Challenge wheels rotate in the wheel arches of the Manhart Z4 M V10 with 8.5Jx19 ET35 235/35ZR19 front tyres and 10Jx19 ET20 285/30ZR19 back tires.

More information in the press release below

PRESS RELEASE Manhart Racing – BMW Z4 V10

HEART TRANSPLANT – 550 HP in Z4

The M version of the BMW Z4 is famously known by nature for being anything but underpowered, since the chassis of the sports convertible already has a heck of a lot of work with the 343 HP and the forward thrust in the lower gears could last forever.

As is generally known however, the sport oriented motorist can never have enough power at his command. Sufficient cause for Günther Manhart, who by now has over 25 years experience in rebuilding BMW engines – a first for Europe – to transplant a brand new, much stronger heart into the Z4. The transplantation of the ten cylinder engine from the current M5 generation into the narrow engine bay of the roadster was anything but a walk in the park and it earned the Manhart Racing engineers quite a few grey hairs. Nevertheless: everything fitted in the end and now the fire of a 5.0 litre V10 engine with an impressive output of 550 HP blazes above the front axle of the Z4. A catalytic converter, a modified DME electronic control unit and the removal of the factory-set V-Max restriction up to 250 km/h are part of the rebuild. Consistent to the M5 V10 engine Manhart Racing has treated the Z4 to an original M5 E60 6 gear manual transmission which includes a Fichtel & Sachs clutch and a M5 E60 differential. An AC Schnitzer stainless steel exhaust system with four muffler tips which was fitted with HJS racing catalytic converters caters for a perfect V10 sound at the rear.

The Manhart Z4 M V10 goes like hell and thanks to the perfectly tuned Bilstein B16 PSS10 coilovers, the virtually unrestrained power of 550 HP can be brought under control to the tarmac. Black BBS Challenge wheels rotate in the wheel arches of the Manhart Z4 M V10 with 8.5Jx19 ET35 235/35ZR19 front tyres and 10Jx19 ET20 285/30ZR19 back tyres.

Conclusion: 550 HP ten cylinders, an acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in 3.9 seconds, kerb weight 1450kg, 2.6kg per HP… who could guess that these impressive figures belong to a Z4? Hardly anyone, however Manhart Racing turns dreams into reality and does this with 25 years experience.

[Source: Automotive Addicts ]

The defective connector may lead to increased electrical resistance of that connection which could cause the seat belt tensioner to fail deploying in a crash.

A similar recall was issued last month for some 2008 1 Series and 3 Series models. For more information on the recall and contact phone numbers, please see the text below:

Vehicle Make / Model: Model Year(s):
BMW / Z4 2009
Manufacturer: BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, LLC Mfr’s Report Date: AUG 11, 2009
NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID Number: 09V327000
N/A
NHTSA Action Number: N/A
Component: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:WIRING
Potential Number of Units Affected:
Summary:
BMW IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2009 Z4 30I AND 35I VEHICLES MANUFACTURED BETWEEN MARCH 10 AND MARCH 19, 2009. A DEFECTIVE CRIMP CONNECTOR IN A BELT TENSIONER WIRING PLUG MAY LEAD TO INCREASED ELECTRICAL RESISTANCE OF THAT CONNECTION.
Consequence:
INCREASED ELECTRICAL RESISTANCE IN THAT CIRCUIT COULD CAUSE THE SAFETY BELT TENSIONER TO FAIL TO DEPLOY IN A CRASH, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN INCREASED INJURY TO THE SEAT OCCUPANT.
Remedy:
THE MANUFACTURER HAS NOT YET PROVIDED THE AGENCY WITH A REMEDY OR NOTIFICATION SCHEDULE. OWNERS MAY CONTACT BMW AT 1-800-831-1117.
Notes:
OWNERS MAY ALSO CONTACT THE NATIONAL HIGHWAY TRAFFIC SAFETY ADMINISTRATION’S VEHICLE SAFETY HOTLINE AT 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), OR GO TO HTTP://WWW.SAFERCAR.GOV

Even at the beginning of his new review, he makes it clear that he absolutely didn’t like the old Z4, a statement that many BMW fans would disagree with, but that’s another story…..

So what made him change his mind this time around? “The best thing about this car is how it feels to drive….” and to make us smile a bit, “it’s sorta Uma Thurmanish……PERFECT!”

But one of his closing statements really nails it and BMW can only be happy they managed to satisfy even one of their biggest critic: “And today I would buy a Z4 over a Mercedes SLK in a heart beat…..”

As much as he praises the Z4, the Nissan 370Z takes a beat and settles this debate for now. We do wonder how the new Audi TTS will come against the Z4, knowing that he’s not a huge Audi fan either….

So, we’re less than two weeks away from getting our hands on the Z4 sDrive 35i and we’re hoping that the new Roadster will blow us away.

All good for now, but….we wonder what he will say about the new 5 Series GT.

The award is presented annually by the Industrial Designers Society of America (IDSA), based in Duelles in the state of Virginia. The BMW Z4 received the bronze award, thus continuing the success story of BMW Group vehicles in this competition. Since 2000, nine vehicles of the brands BMW, MINI and BMW Motorrad have been recognised for their outstanding design.

The new BMW Z4 impressed the jury with a design which unmistakably and authentically reflects the driving pleasure characteristic of the roadster. With its long bonnet, long wheelbase, large wheels and short overhangs, the two-seater possesses classic roadster proportions which are interpreted in a modern way with a styling which is characteristic of the brand.

Its sophisticated surface design gives the BMW Z4 a fascinating elegance which can be seen from every perspective. Its appearance is that of a vehicle sculpture shaped as a single entity. An equally characteristic feature is the low seating position close to the rear axle. The resulting driving experience and the visual impression of the roadster thus provide a perfectly integrated and fascinating whole.

For the first time, a BMW Roadster is fitted with a retractable hard top. The dual-section roof in aluminium lightweight construction also contributes to the harmonious design of the BMW Z4. When closed, the hard top provides a flowing, coupé-like roof line which highlights the car’s elegant look. When open, it is discreetly and harmoniously integrated into the flat rear.

The success of the BMW Z4 at the 2009 International Design Excellent Awards builds on the outstanding showing of the BMW Group in this competition in past years. Three vehicles of the BMW Group have received a gold award: the motorcycle models BMW K 1200 LT in 2000 and BMW R 1200 GS (2004) and the MINI Cooper S (2003). Silver has gone to the BMW X5 (2000) and the MINI Convertible (2005), bronze to the motorcycle model BMW F 650 CS (2003). What is more, the BMW 3 Series Convertible and the motorcycle model BMW F 8090 GS achieved finalist status in last year’s competition.

The international jury of the International Design Excellence Awards presented awards in 17 categories this year. In addition to products from the fields of transport, office equipment, communication, household and consumer electronics, there was also assessment of design research projects and innovations in the field of environmental technology. The official award ceremony will be held on September 26th 2009 after the annual international design conference of the IDSA in Miami.

[Source: BMW ]