Always trying to keep options open for a replacement for the S (and then I get my sense back !!) I went out in a Z4 yesterday.

Initially impressed by the dash layout and materials, I grew to dislike the car more and more as the drive went on. The engine was typically excellent (3.0 6 cylinder sang beautifully) but the suspension was weird. Harsh and uncomfortable in a straight line but seemed too soft for cornering.

The plastics around the cabin felt cheap and nasty (especially behind and between the seats )

There was plenty of storage space (if you need it) but the roof sounded like it was really straining to close and a piece of the door trim fell off on its own.

The main issue I had was the buffeting with the windows UP ! It felt like my S with the windows down. It was really off putting.

Big disappointment then - and off the replacement list.

 

I agree.

Took out a 3 litre a year or two ago and hated the tramlining and awful handling. Yep, the wind buffeting is pretty bad - did it have the cloth wind blocker thing?

Having said that I am very likely to get a Z4M Coupe next, but I am waiting for the test drive.

I have got a 350Z roadster arriving in 8 days for a week, so will do a review...

 

No - no wind blocker. I think its better to test it without one. You get to see the design faults

The 350z conv looks like an obvious contender but I don't like the back of it and think it will be too cumbersome for my liking.

Boxter 986 (3.2) S next as a matter of interest.

They're bloody cheap now that 987 is out.

 

Yeah, good point on the 986 - try and find a low mileage Anniversary edition which has lots of extras and IIRC a power increase.

Downside to the 986 is the very poor and old looking interiors.

I am testing the new 350Z purely as it's got 309bhp which I am hoping will counter the weight issue!

Problem with Boxsters is the servicing costs. A friend owned a Boxster S and it cost him shit loads, but that was at an OPC.

 

Thanks for the tip...I'll have a hunt about.

Its a bit of a half hearted search to be honest - the S is my motorbike (toy) and nothing excites me enough to throw

 

I know what you mean, it's really hard.

I am getting a little bored of my S. Thought I would be happy in another car with similar performance, but driving a demo TT 3.2 has proved that I need something which is as much fun and faster.

That's why I am looking at the Z4M...