It wasn't an M version. That's like comparing the M3 to a 330i. So there's going to be a noticeable difference between what I drove and the M you mention. I don't know which version it was. It's a friend of a friends car and he let me take it for a spin. When I refer to sloppy feeling clutch and steering wheel, it's just that. The steering wheel is very loose and smooth. Provides no feedback and feels like I'm driving a Buick. The clutch is also very smooth and soft, softer even than my F150. It was hard to feel the engagement point. It handled well, but not nearly as well as my Z. And before anyone jumps out with an apples to apples comparison, the BASE Z4 is going to cost you $50K. So I don't feel I need to use an M version as a comparison. It's a sporty roadster even in base trim.

I will add that I question the validity of that car that Top Gear tested. Based on the average of reviews on the Z4 M and tested times, there's no way I believe it posted better times than the cars on that list. It just doesn't have the power nor grip to do so. The Cayman S has proven better in all categories to date and isn't in that company. I just simply don't believe that was a stock car or similar conditions.

Go drive one with good tires and then report. I've been driving sports cars since probably before you were born, and I would stand by the test 100%. Top Gear may have a humorous side to their show, I don't believe they doctor the cars for those tests. I've driven the Caymen and Boxster S, different car than the Z4 M Roadster.

No knock on your car. I would have a M coupe if I didn't have the 370. As much as I love the car, I just feel the super long front end is a little bit weird.

Roadster looks terrible, I like the z4m coupe only. It's like an s2000 on roids

I think the current gen hardtop roadster looks better than all the previous ones, but thats just my opinion. It looks great top up or down.

Styling is subjective. A lot of people love the styling, and probably just about as many hate it. One man's Picasso is another man's velvet Elvis :p

I like both versions myself. Convertible hardtop is a great option.

we loved our 2008 too, its just with the top up, the hardtop rules. Looks like a regular coupe.

The E89 has a little of that "60's British sports coupe" look to it, I say that as a compliment :tiphat:

Thanks for the review. I love the looks and have always wondered what it would be like to drive one. In 1995, I bought a top of the line Miata instead of the 1st Z3 and I've always had second thoughts. Still have the Miata though and love it. Also, love my Z.

It's as close to Peter Griffin's car as I have seen in modern times. It's like the historical Spanish Conquistador codpiece. An epic allusion to manhood. Ironically, it was designed by women (presumably they found its shape very pleasing). Even more a testimony to its visual cues alluding to massive manhood!

http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_XNxQTR5Jcd...0/codpiece.jpg

^ Actually the first gen Z4 (2002 - 2008) was designed by Chris Bangle. It's the current generation that was designed by a woman, hence the longer front end :p

No wonder why the Z4 looks like my d................... :roflpuke2:

Hmm okay? I have enough self confidence to not care about what other guys think?