BMW Z4M Coupe --> 370Z ??

ebruder · 12-30-2009, 10:49 PM

First post:

I am currently driving and thoroughly enjoying a 2007 BMW Z4M Coupe. It will be coming off of lease in a few months (I like to shop for cars early), and I have no interest what-so-ever in the new Z4 hardtop convertible. The new Z4 has grown in size, has no M version, and just doesn't appeal to me. BMW is talking about a higher performing (higher boost pressure) on the current 3.0 liter twin turbo to give more torque and HP, but that is still speculation, and will end up pushing the current higher performance Z4's ridiculous price even higher, without even addressing M-style handling and braking.

I have a couple of choices: 1) Buy my current ride at 3 years old for ~ $30M, or 2) buy a new something else. I have driven P-cars for many years, and don't want to go that route, which leaves me with a 370Z as a viable candidate. I am also drawn to an Exige, but they are more track toys.

The last Z-car I loved was a friend's 240. I hated the 300ZX, liked the 350Z, and think the 370Z might a winner.

I've done some research, and know I would want the Sport Package and 6mt, but unsure whether Base or Touring. The car would be my daily driver, weekend canyon carver, and a few times/year track car.

I really like my current Z4MC, but it will be 3 years old, and for nearly the same price I could get a new 370Z.

Any and all comment and feedback would be welcomed. I have never owned a Nissan, let alone a Z.

Thanks,

EB

nogoodname · 12-30-2009, 10:53 PM

top gear test drove both the new Z4 and the 370z at the same time. check the vid... just to see and i know your not getting the new z4..but have a look.

for a daily driver and canyon runner... touring package gives you comforts.

areyouin729 · 12-30-2009, 11:56 PM

you hated the 300ZX?!?!

exits thread (don't let a forum pick a car for you, pick the car you want)

AK370Z · 12-31-2009, 12:18 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by ebruder

First post:

I am currently driving and thoroughly enjoying a 2007 BMW Z4M Coupe. It will be coming off of lease in a few months (I like to shop for cars early), and I have no interest what-so-ever in the new Z4 hardtop convertible. The new Z4 has grown in size, has no M version, and just doesn't appeal to me. BMW is talking about a higher performing (higher boost pressure) on the current 3.0 liter twin turbo to give more torque and HP, but that is still speculation, and will end up pushing the current higher performance Z4's ridiculous price even higher, without even addressing M-style handling and braking.

I have a couple of choices: 1) Buy my current ride at 3 years old for ~ $30M, or 2) buy a new something else. I have driven P-cars for many years, and don't want to go that route, which leaves me with a 370Z as a viable candidate. I am also drawn to an Exige, but they are more track toys.

The last Z-car I loved was a friend's 240. I hated the 300ZX, liked the 350Z, and think the 370Z might a winner.

I've done some research, and know I would want the Sport Package and 6mt, but unsure whether Base or Touring. The car would be my daily driver, weekend canyon carver, and a few times/year track car.

I really like my current Z4MC, but it will be 3 years old, and for nearly the same price I could get a new 370Z.

Any and all comment and feedback would be welcomed. I have never owned a Nissan, let alone a Z.

Thanks,

EB

First of all, welcome to The370Z.com. We are very glad to have you with us in our forum. Please feel free to share pictures of your current and previous cars

Looking at your choices, do you really want to drive the Z4 any longer? I personally get tired of ANY car if I drive more than 2 years ( 3 years is max) In my honest opinion, why not give the 370Z a try? Coming from a Z4, I can def tell you Z is a more aggressive, noisy, harsh raw sports car. If that's okay with you, then you'll like the 370Z. I also saw where you mentioned that you liked 350Z. If you liked 350Z, then you'll absolutely LOVE the 370Z without a doubt.

Stig actually ran a better time (half second quicker) with the 370Z than the brand new 2010 Z4

Coming from a BMW, I def suggest Touring model with sports. But if you want to save 4000 dollars, then base+sports will do the job just fine. It's the lightest and most performance oriented out of the box spec. (this is what I have).

I say, go to your nearest dealer and ask for a test drive on a sport 6speed 370Z. Make sure you test out the SyncroRev match feature. I haven't turned it off since I left the dealer.

If you DO plan to take the Z to a track (long road courses), it's suggested that you put a oil cooler. But for everyday driving, it's not necessary.

Keep us posted. thanks.

AK370Z · 12-31-2009, 12:28 AM

I didn't realize you were talking about Z4 M. I thought you said regular Z4.

Power is almost identical in both cars. So, it's upto you to test drive the Z and find out if it's really worth buying.

imag · 12-31-2009, 12:42 AM

The Z4M is a nice car. The interior is gorgeous, which makes sense, as it was much more expensive new.

The Z4 also feels much more like a classic sports car to me: compact, tight. The Z has a bit more of a muscle car feel, though it's not nearly as cavernous or bulky as a Mustang. The odd thing to me was to see that the 370Z and the Z4M are within 50 lbs. of each other because the Z4 definitely *feels* much smaller.

The driving experience feels different too, because you sit so far back in the Z4 compared to the 370. The 370 really does pivot around your head, where the Z4 feels like you're a bit on for the ride. Numbers are similar on both, but it's well worth a drive. I'd be very interested in your opinion. The 370 will be louder for sure on the highway.

The one thing I don't like about the BMWs is that they feel more digital to me. Part of that is refinement, but I also feel like it can be hard to sense the throttle, the shift points, and the steering quite as much as the Z. That's likely one for personal preference...

As far as packages, I say base+sport, personally. The Bose isn't worth a crap anyway, and though I do like the job Nissan did on the leather, it wasn't worth the extra $. I actually wouldn't be surprised if you like your M better after a drive, but I'll be curious to find out what you think.

kannibul · 12-31-2009, 08:06 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by imag

The Z4M is a nice car. The interior is gorgeous, which makes sense, as it was much more expensive new.

The Z4 also feels much more like a classic sports car to me: compact, tight. The Z has a bit more of a muscle car feel, though it's not nearly as cavernous or bulky as a Mustang. The odd thing to me was to see that the 370Z and the Z4M are within 50 lbs. of each other because the Z4 definitely *feels* much smaller.

The driving experience feels different too, because you sit so far back in the Z4 compared to the 370. The 370 really does pivot around your head, where the Z4 feels like you're a bit on for the ride. Numbers are similar on both, but it's well worth a drive. I'd be very interested in your opinion. The 370 will be louder for sure on the highway.

The one thing I don't like about the BMWs is that they feel more digital to me. Part of that is refinement, but I also feel like it can be hard to sense the throttle, the shift points, and the steering quite as much as the Z. That's likely one for personal preference...

As far as packages, I say base+sport, personally. The Bose isn't worth a crap anyway, and though I do like the job Nissan did on the leather, it wasn't worth the extra $. I actually wouldn't be surprised if you like your M better after a drive, but I'll be curious to find out what you think.

The touring appealed to me because of the seats, primarily. The bose system isn't bad (better than most OEM), but isn't OMFG great, and I knew that going in. Sat radio doesn't appeal to me, but may to others. At the time, bluetooth wasn't something I cared about as my phone didn't have it - but my new one does, and I've got it set up, and it sure beats having to dig out my cell phone while driving! (like in my other vehicles)

Sport Package, unless you intend to go with higher-end aftermarket parts, is a must.

Navigation, I decided to go without - I know my way, I look at mapquest and memorize the route before I go, and can remember easily which ways I need to go to get back to where I came from (due mostly to doing the same with a motorcycle)

Anyhooooo

yellowZ · 12-31-2009, 08:31 AM

I cross shopped these cars when I was looking and found the BMW to feel more powerful but not as stuck to the ground. I like the looks of the Nissan better (subjective).

Things to consider - if you're going new on the BMW, the maintenance for the first few years is free. If you're going used on the BMW, maintenance can be expensive. The Nissan all out of pocket for the maintenance.

When you decide and/or test drive both, give us a post so we can hear your thoughts!

Kevin

imag · 12-31-2009, 12:46 AM

If you haven't already, it's probably also worth driving a used Cayman S (sacrilege on a Z board, I know). You can find good ones for $40K in basically mint condition (Porsche owners can be more anal than anyone).

I was disappointed in the interior and I just didn't fit properly in it, but it is a better pure sports car than either the Z or the Z4M, and it won't need as many add-ons as the Z to go on the track, if that's your thing.

ebruder · 12-31-2009, 09:34 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by imag

If you haven't already, it's probably also worth driving a used Cayman S (sacrilege on a Z board, I know). You can find good ones for $40K in basically mint condition (Porsche owners can be more anal than anyone).

I was disappointed in the interior and I just didn't fit properly in it, but it is a better pure sports car than either the Z or the Z4M, and it won't need as many add-ons as the Z to go on the track, if that's your thing.

I drove P-cars beginning in 1984 until this Z4M, and I just don't care for the Cayman or Cayman S. It's steering is as precise as any car I have ever experienced, but the car does nothing for my soul. My 928's and 911's did, but not the Cayman. The only two P-cars that excite me now are the GT3 and the Turbo, but both totally impractical and costly. The RMS problem has me avoiding the 911's. Rational or not, Porsche really turned me off when they left their customers hanging with an obvious design/manufacturing flaw.

The MCoupe feeds my soul making beastly speed and sounds all the way to its 8,000 red line, and I hope the 370Z will as well. I wish I could get the Exige out of my thinking, for I don't want a weekend only or track only car.

EB

imag · 12-31-2009, 02:50 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by ebruder

I drove P-cars beginning in 1984 until this Z4M, and I just don't care for the Cayman or Cayman S. It's steering is as precise as any car I have ever experienced, but the car does nothing for my soul. My 928's and 911's did, but not the Cayman. The only two P-cars that excite me now are the GT3 and the Turbo, but both totally impractical and costly. The RMS problem has me avoiding the 911's. Rational or not, Porsche really turned me off when they left their customers hanging with an obvious design/manufacturing flaw.

The MCoupe feeds my soul making beastly speed and sounds all the way to its 8,000 red line, and I hope the 370Z will as well. I wish I could get the Exige out of my thinking, for I don't want a weekend only or track only car.

EB

I hear you on the Exige. Even now I'm tempted to sell my Z for a used S. I keep thinking about just going whole hog on an S260...

BlueR32 · 12-31-2009, 04:18 PM

i am going through this same decision process. i also want a rwd track competent car that would be my daily driver.

i am leaning toward the z4mcoupe, but it worries me to get a "dead end" car-- very limited production means a fairly scant aftermarket.
the z looks awesome, and gets some really good gains from simple mods.

to be trackable, the z needs an oil cooler. oil coolers are a compromise, as it would delay the rise of oil temps to optimum, which would be an issue for me due to a very short daily commute. the z4m does not seem to have engine cooling issues at all.

the z4m also has a proper lsd. the 370z lsd is decent, but can get overwhelmed by track use, cooler or not. you can swap the lsd on the 370z, just like you could add one to a cayman.

as for brakes, the z4m brakes (csl brakes) are probably a bit better than the 370z's. of course, there are bbk options for either.

so, i see it as z4m vs. 370z with oil cooler and diff cooler. i'd guess that the two cars would be a pretty close match on the track.

FricFrac · 12-31-2009, 07:05 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by BlueR32

to be trackable, the z needs an oil cooler. oil coolers are a compromise, as it would delay the rise of oil temps to optimum, which would be an issue for me due to a very short daily commute. the z4m does not seem to have engine cooling issues at all.

so, i see it as z4m vs. 370z with oil cooler and diff cooler. i'd guess that the two cars would be a pretty close match on the track.

A common misconception or a poorly designed oil cooling system. If you are concerned about warm up times a thermal switch/valve much like the one in your cooling system keeps oil out of the cooler until it comes up to temp. Oil coolers are a good idea on any modern engine as much of the cooling is done with the oil now. The 370Z will hardly break half way on the temp gauge for engine coolant yet you'll be in limp mode with the oil overheating with track use and no cooler. An oil cooling system should be thought of as an anti-oil-overheating system rather than one that keeps the oil temperature low. Its important for your oil to be running at temperature for flow/lubrication and a proper oil cooling system will do just that.

For track use a diff cooler isn't really needed.

BlueR32 · 01-01-2010, 11:05 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by FricFrac

If you are concerned about warm up times a thermal switch/valve much like the one in your cooling system keeps oil out of the cooler until it comes up to temp.

For track use a diff cooler isn't really needed.

good point on the thermostat.

i think the use (or overuse) of the viscous diff will depend on the track, but i don't think there are many track rats that are glad that the z has a viscous lsd vs a mechanical.

kannibul · 12-31-2009, 08:01 AM

I imagine compared to a Z4M, the 370z will feel a bit less refined. That can be taken as a good or bad thing depending on what you want.

If you're after a "hot car" - the Z is it, if you're after a car that won't make the old lady complain while she's on a cell phone, the G37 is the other side of that same performance coin. (same platform)

12-30-2009, 10:49 PM	#1 (permalink)
ebruder Base Member Join Date: Dec 2009 Location: Suburban Cleveland Posts: 20 Drives: Z4M Coupe 928S4 Rep Power: 16	BMW Z4M Coupe --> 370Z ?? First post: I am currently driving and thoroughly enjoying a 2007 BMW Z4M Coupe. It will be coming off of lease in a few months (I like to shop for cars early), and I have no interest what-so-ever in the new Z4 hardtop convertible. The new Z4 has grown in size, has no M version, and just doesn't appeal to me. BMW is talking about a higher performing (higher boost pressure) on the current 3.0 liter twin turbo to give more torque and HP, but that is still speculation, and will end up pushing the current higher performance Z4's ridiculous price even higher, without even addressing M-style handling and braking. I have a couple of choices: 1) Buy my current ride at 3 years old for ~ $30M, or 2) buy a new something else. I have driven P-cars for many years, and don't want to go that route, which leaves me with a 370Z as a viable candidate. I am also drawn to an Exige, but they are more track toys. The last Z-car I loved was a friend's 240. I hated the 300ZX, liked the 350Z, and think the 370Z might a winner. I've done some research, and know I would want the Sport Package and 6mt, but unsure whether Base or Touring. The car would be my daily driver, weekend canyon carver, and a few times/year track car. I really like my current Z4MC, but it will be 3 years old, and for nearly the same price I could get a new 370Z. Any and all comment and feedback would be welcomed. I have never owned a Nissan, let alone a Z. Thanks, EB Last edited by ebruder; 12-30-2009 at 10:52 PM.

12-31-2009, 12:28 AM	#5 (permalink)
AK370Z Administrator Join Date: Sep 2008 Location: NJ Posts: 9,930 Drives: 09 370Z MB Sports M6 Rep Power: 10	I didn't realize you were talking about Z4 M. I thought you said regular Z4. Power is almost identical in both cars. So, it's upto you to test drive the Z and find out if it's really worth buying. __________________ The370Z Signature Pictures ll Want to rock our forum decals on your car? Then click here! ll How to Embed YouTube Videos In a Post STOP! (Hammertime) ll Become a Premium Member Click HERE ll F.A.Q. Are You a Nissan Dealer? Click Here to Become A "Supporting Dealer" and Start Listing Your 370Zs In Our Inventory Section My Monterey Blue Z ll My Exhaust --> My Intake --> G3 Nissan's Official Response Regarding Oil Temp Issue: CLICK HERE Need a Set of Cheap Winter wheels /Tires? Then Visit The Banner Link Below and Place Your Order. You'll Help Keep The370Z Alive.

12-31-2009, 12:42 AM	#6 (permalink)
imag Enthusiast Member Join Date: Mar 2009 Location: Oakland, CA Posts: 446 Drives: up the wall Rep Power: 17	The Z4M is a nice car. The interior is gorgeous, which makes sense, as it was much more expensive new. The Z4 also feels much more like a classic sports car to me: compact, tight. The Z has a bit more of a muscle car feel, though it's not nearly as cavernous or bulky as a Mustang. The odd thing to me was to see that the 370Z and the Z4M are within 50 lbs. of each other because the Z4 definitely feels much smaller. The driving experience feels different too, because you sit so far back in the Z4 compared to the 370. The 370 really does pivot around your head, where the Z4 feels like you're a bit on for the ride. Numbers are similar on both, but it's well worth a drive. I'd be very interested in your opinion. The 370 will be louder for sure on the highway. The one thing I don't like about the BMWs is that they feel more digital to me. Part of that is refinement, but I also feel like it can be hard to sense the throttle, the shift points, and the steering quite as much as the Z. That's likely one for personal preference... As far as packages, I say base+sport, personally. The Bose isn't worth a crap anyway, and though I do like the job Nissan did on the leather, it wasn't worth the extra $. I actually wouldn't be surprised if you like your M better after a drive, but I'll be curious to find out what you think. __________________ Stillen CBE, Stillen track cooler, Stillen Gen3 Intakes, B&M short shift kit

12-31-2009, 12:46 AM	#9 (permalink)
imag Enthusiast Member Join Date: Mar 2009 Location: Oakland, CA Posts: 446 Drives: up the wall Rep Power: 17	If you haven't already, it's probably also worth driving a used Cayman S (sacrilege on a Z board, I know). You can find good ones for $40K in basically mint condition (Porsche owners can be more anal than anyone). I was disappointed in the interior and I just didn't fit properly in it, but it is a better pure sports car than either the Z or the Z4M, and it won't need as many add-ons as the Z to go on the track, if that's your thing. __________________ Stillen CBE, Stillen track cooler, Stillen Gen3 Intakes, B&M short shift kit

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12-30-2009, 10:53 PM	#2 (permalink)
nogoodname Lifetime Premium Join Date: Nov 2008 Location: Montreal Posts: 22,357 Drives: E46 M3 Rep Power: 1765	top gear test drove both the new Z4 and the 370z at the same time. check the vid... just to see and i know your not getting the new z4..but have a look. for a daily driver and canyon runner... touring package gives you comforts.

12-30-2009, 11:56 PM	#3 (permalink)
areyouin729 Enthusiast Member Join Date: Nov 2008 Location: Conshohocken Age: 43 Posts: 301 Drives: 2009 370Z Rep Power: 17	you hated the 300ZX?!?! exits thread (don't let a forum pick a car for you, pick the car you want)

12-31-2009, 08:31 AM	#8 (permalink)
yellowZ Base Member Join Date: Jun 2009 Location: Austin, TX Posts: 77 Drives: Nissan 370Z - Yellow Rep Power: 16	I cross shopped these cars when I was looking and found the BMW to feel more powerful but not as stuck to the ground. I like the looks of the Nissan better (subjective). Things to consider - if you're going new on the BMW, the maintenance for the first few years is free. If you're going used on the BMW, maintenance can be expensive. The Nissan all out of pocket for the maintenance. When you decide and/or test drive both, give us a post so we can hear your thoughts! Kevin

12-31-2009, 04:18 PM	#12 (permalink)
BlueR32 Base Member Join Date: Mar 2009 Location: Alabama Posts: 20 Drives: 2004 VW R32 Rep Power: 204	i am going through this same decision process. i also want a rwd track competent car that would be my daily driver. i am leaning toward the z4mcoupe, but it worries me to get a "dead end" car-- very limited production means a fairly scant aftermarket. the z looks awesome, and gets some really good gains from simple mods. to be trackable, the z needs an oil cooler. oil coolers are a compromise, as it would delay the rise of oil temps to optimum, which would be an issue for me due to a very short daily commute. the z4m does not seem to have engine cooling issues at all. the z4m also has a proper lsd. the 370z lsd is decent, but can get overwhelmed by track use, cooler or not. you can swap the lsd on the 370z, just like you could add one to a cayman. as for brakes, the z4m brakes (csl brakes) are probably a bit better than the 370z's. of course, there are bbk options for either. so, i see it as z4m vs. 370z with oil cooler and diff cooler. i'd guess that the two cars would be a pretty close match on the track.

12-31-2009, 08:01 AM	#15 (permalink)
kannibul A True Z Fanatic Join Date: Jun 2009 Location: Jenks, OK Posts: 2,281 Drives: 370z Touring/Sport Rep Power: 267	I imagine compared to a Z4M, the 370z will feel a bit less refined. That can be taken as a good or bad thing depending on what you want. If you're after a "hot car" - the Z is it, if you're after a car that won't make the old lady complain while she's on a cell phone, the G37 is the other side of that same performance coin. (same platform)