BMW Z4M Coupe to 370z? Test drive

djpathfinder

My brother has a 07 imola red Z4 MC and I've driven it a few times. Fabulous car...lots of fun. A little raspy above 4000 rpm, but virtually gone when he installed an Eisenmann exhaust. It has good acceleration and handling, but a bit rough riding compared to the 370Z. Because the seating position is so far back, it has a very exaggerated long hood and very short rear, so I find it difficult to judge distances when parking. I bug him all the time about how he's practically sitting on the rear axle. :-) The Z4M brakes are very touchy compared to a more even feel between gas and brake pedals on the 370Z. Both are awesome cars and are very similar in performance and handling. I find the 370Z easier to live with as a daily driver, plus I've always been a Z fan.

The Z4M is a rare car as only 1800 were made for North America. I've seen a few Z4 M roadsters locally, but never an M coupe. I chose a 40th anniversary Z, which is rare b/c only 1000 will be made. My brother says he wouldn't trade in his car for a 370Z, but would hands down choose the 370Z over the current Z4 model. I won't trade my Z for a Z4 MC...stalemate in our case. I'm sure you'll hear the same arguments from different people. It all boils down to personal preference. For what it's worth, I'm a very satisfied Z owner so far and wouldn't hesitate to recommend it to someone else. Good luck in your decision.

__________________
2012 GT-R Black Edition Jet Black
2010 370Z 40th Anniversary // SOLD

ebruder

We agree on all points. The Z4MC is a rougher ride that the 370Z, and by an amount that surprised me. Also, because of the extreme rear seat placement, all of your observations there are dead on. You do, however, learn distances very quickly, so it is no problem after a couple of days.

The brakes are touchier, but wow, what amazing stopping power. I've driven P-cars before this Z4MC and thought they had powerful brakes, but the Z4MC puts them to shame. I have never felt such stopping power, and again, you quickly learn how not to be touchy.

We also feel the same about the new Z4. The 370Z hands down.

Thanks for your comments.

EB