Cars service manual

2007 BMW Z4 M Coupe preview

For 2007, there will be regular and extra-strength versions available, the latter being the Z4 M Coupe. Along with its unique styling, BMW’s newest hardtop delivers 343 horsepower, a five second 0-62 mph time, 18-inch alloy wheels, and an assortment of M-specific updates.






After its world debut in Geneva in March, the new Z4 Coupe will be committed to production at the brands Spartanburg, South Carolina manufacturing facility in April, with the first deliveries starting this August. Pricing has yet to be announced, but expect it to be a few thousand dollars more expensive than the open-topped roadster. While the entire Z4 Coupe range will be offered in the US, Canadians will only be able to purchase the M-Coupe variant.


Horses unleashed

In the Z4 M Roadster, BMW combines its high performance 3.2-liter straight six with a manual six-speed gearbox with a short overall transmission ratio. The engine has a power output of 343 hp and has 269 lb-ft of torque. BMW says the engine reaches a maximum speed of 8000 rpm, but limits it electronically at 7900 rpm.

The body of the Z4 M Roadster is strong but very light, at only 3109 lb. Hence, output per liter of displacement is 106 hp, which translates into acceleration to 60 mph in 5.0 seconds. The top speed is limited to 155 mph and unlike the other M models, the Z4 M Roadster cannot be delivered with the top-speed package that takes away the limiter after 1243 miles. It is not worthwhile, BMW says, because the difference between the limited and unlimited speed would be too small, approximately 10 mph. But there is no need to brag about power, as the six-cylinder is very responsive and as its 215 lb-ft of torque (eighty percent) is available at 2000 rpm.

Along with the power, the Z4 M Roadster sings with a nice engine note. The engineers have put a lot of effort to have a sound that is reminiscent of motorsports cars and to limit the exhaust emissions to comply with the U.S. norms.

The suspension of the M Roadster has been lowered by 0.39 inches and wheel guidance has more negative camber. The weight distribution comes close to the optimal 50:50, and together with anti-roll bars and the wide front track of 58.5 inches and rear track of 59.7 inches, the Z4 M has great stability.

The car stands on 255/45ZR-18 rubber at the front and 255/40ZR-18 at the rear, on specially designed light-alloy rims. A tire-pressure monitor warns the driver when the pressure drops to less than 50 percent of the required level. Instead of a spare tire, BMW saves the 44 lb and outfits the M with a mini-compressor and rapid sealant for tire punctures.

The abovementioned DSC system has integrated stability control and Cornering Brake Control, which monitors the asymmetric brake pressure, preventing the car from swerving when applying the brakes upon entering a bend. Instead of Dynamic Traction Control that is normally part of DSC in the Roadster, the M has a variable, speed-sensing M differential lock. It is carried over from the M3 and adjusts the cars behaviour at higher speeds. The system builds up a specific locking force on demand.

There are subtle differences between the Z4 Roadster and the M version, but the M stands out by some important structural changes. The underfloor has an improved airflow to cool the transmission and rear axle and by using a diffuser and an air dam in the rear, the flow of air along the underfloor is optimized.

The cockpit of the M is sporty and attractive. Leather and carbon-look trim on the dashboard lend the cabin a distinct feel. The speedometer and rev counter have black faces with white numbers and red indicator needles and are illuminated by white light. On the outside the Z4 M Roadster is recognizable by the revised front and rear fascias.


Specifications (Z4 Coupe 3.0si & M-Coupe)

* Price Range (estimated MSRP): $64,000 - $75,000
* Body Type: 2-door coupe
* Layout: front engine, RWD
* Base Engine: 255-hp, 220 lb-ft of torque, 3.0L, 24-valve, DOHC I-6
* Optional Engine (M-Coupe): 330-hp, 262 lb-ft of torque, 3.2L, 24-valve, DOHC I-6
* Transmission: 6-spd manual (optional 6-spd auto with paddle-shift actuated manual mode)
* Brakes (front/rear): disc/disc, ABS, BA, EBD, CTC, etc.
* Acceleration (0 - 100 km/h; 3.0si): 5.7 seconds
* Acceleration (0 - 100 km/h; M-Coupe): 5.0 seconds
* Curb Weight (M-Coupe): 1,415 kg (3120 lbs)
* Seating Capacity: 2
* Cargo Volume (trunk): 340 L (12.0 cu ft)
* Warranty (mo/km): 48/80,000 comprehensive
* Direct Competitors: Audi TT, Chevrolet Corvette, Honda S2000, Mazda RX-8, Nissan 350Z, Mercedes-Benz SLK, Porsche Cayman S, Pontiac Solstice
* Web Site: www.bmw.ca