A friend of mine just went to look at cars this week. Was pretty much set on the MY05 3.25i because of the deals being made on the outgoing style. Then he test drove a z4 2.5 and started talking numbers...

He could have had the manual 2.5 with sport seats and HIDs for $31,000

Now I know it's far less peak HP and slightly softer handling, but it's still a bimmer. It would have been a serious consideration had I known you could get one for less than $35k with those options.

Would anyone else reconsider their decision in favor of the BMW for that price? I'm just looking to make myself feel a bit better right now.

 

Not a chance.

 

I haven't driven a Z4 but I did own a Z3. I'd be interested in any car that has more room than the S2000. However it's seems like most are a tight fit. I've driven Z3, Boxster, SLK350 and of course S2000 and they all could have some extra particularly leg room.

I had a lot of problems with my Z3 and so far zero problems with my S2000 so I would be a little warry of a switch but I think my Z3 was a bad example.

Another thing, I'd do everything in my power to get a 3.0L Z4. I got the weakest engine (1.9L) because it was cheaper and regretted it every day I had it. It was OK in the curves, but it was a dog at the stop-light, I was getting walked by V6 Accords.

I'm not a huge fan of the looks of the Z4 but it's grown on me a bit. I especially like the way the top stows without all the hooks showing which seems like every vert except the S2000 can do now.

 

no. it could be $20k, and I'd still pick the s2k. the name/brand of a car, while nice, isn't what keeps me around.. i went from an audi to a honda..

its the driving experience. i look for the "ultimate driving machine" for my money, and the z4 2.5 doesn't offer me that for the price of the s2k.

now if the z4 2.5 was a better car, then i'd pick that..

 

Eew. No way. That would be like someone buying a BMW 318 to "have a Beemer."

Would you rather have a BMW 318 or G35?
I guess old style BMW 325 vs G35 would be more appropriate.

If it was your only car and you like soft and slow... and want to impress people... go for the Z4.

I have a lux coupe that my wife drives around. We take it to nice dinners.

But it doesn't make me grin and get the blood pumping like the raw, screaming S2k.

So no. Not for any price. Wouldn't trade the S2k for a Z4 3.0 either.

 

No, I don't buy badges, I buy cars. The only badge that really wows me is a prancing horse, and that doesn't really matter because I'll never buy a Ferrari (short of a financial windfall). Which is why I don't jump in on some of the import circle jerks, and I don't bag on domestics even though my last two cars have been Honda/Acura. None of this is a knock on the Z4 as I haven't had the opportunity to drive one, it may very well be a better deal at that price but I wouldn't know. Just going on specs/looks/reviews though, no.

 

No, but then again, I'm not a badge whore either. The S is a better car than the Z4, Miata, TT, and SLK. The only other car I'd consider is the Boxster, but I'd pick it because its a great car, not because its a Porsche.

 

Hmm... I need to clarify.

My "it's a bimmer" thing had little to do with the prestige. Both are $30-$31k cars... so I don't think there is even a difference.

The comment had more to do with the fit and finish. I was implying that it was a bimmer, so you can be sure it has better upholstery, stereo, controls, ect. Basically, it's just a "nicer" car inside.

None of this is knocking the S, because as a true sports car, the z4 doesn't hold a candle to ours.

 

Heard they were offering $8000 off MSRP for the Z4 3.0 At that price it makes a much more compelling argument. They did remarkable tings with that car in those BMW Films. Makes it look real good there.

 

I'd have to drive both back to back -- but at the end of the day -- man the Z4 is one ugly car.