Lovely review. I just purchased a Z4M Roadster a week ago. It was almost a museum piece for the last 4 years. Only 30k miles and in mint condition. I'm still giddy over the attributes of this car. The S54, the manual box, the LSD rear and the joy of an open top. I'm blessed to have found such a good example. Keep up the great vids.
TankEngine15 Totally agree, it’s such a thrilling car to drive. Dynamically I’ve fallen in love with it more than I could’ve imagined. Sounds like you got a gem as well, must be in amazing shape. Thanks for watching.
Thanks for a great review. After 2000+ Nürburgring laps behind the wheel of my Z4M Coupé this little monster still keeps me on edge and hungry for the next corner! Best car in my fleet without a doubt... Cheers
I too own a 2005 BMW Z4 2.5i in red since new and now has 80,000 miles on it. I didn't drive it much as I bought it for my wife. Recently my grandchildren asked me to take them each for a back country ride in it. I forgot why I bought this car in the first place and always drove one of my vehicles instead. Now 13 years later it came back to me why this car is so special. It is flat out fun to drive and begs for your attention then rewards you when you give it. My local BMW dealer always serviced it and kept it in pristine condition. Now that I have fallen in love with it again I have recently taken over maintenance and discovered how well engineered and simple it was designed. It truly is a driving machine. Thank you for such a very well constructed video of your machine. Straight forward, intelligent communication, and I think you are great guy who knows exactly what you are talking about. Excellent job. I hope you enjoy many more years with your Z4.
Probably the best technical driving review I have ever found for this model. BMW reviewers tend to forget the basics; BMW states itself as 'the ultimate driving machine" for a reason. They are meant to be driven, pushed, and enjoyed. The worst fate for any BMW,;Coupe, Convertible, Sedan, or even wagon, is to be driven timidly. Thanks for the great review.
Awesome review. I've got an Imola Red Z4m roadster and I love it. I bought a silver 3.0 about 5 years ago and wanted just a little more power, grip, sturdiness etc. I priced out mods and decided to just sell it and get the M. This was about 3 years ago. People who don't know what it is think it's new. The people who do know what it is are ecstatic when they see it. I've literally gotten handshakes and "congrats" just for driving it lol. I've got a buddy who has an Audi S3 which has similar performance stats and some how it just seems a bit boring in comparison. M thought of everything on this car from the perfect heel toe position stock to the hydraulic steering and high revving S54. It's a driver's car through and through. I've got a B5 S4 that does my rain, snow and grunt work because the M can get a little exhausting and I I really only want to put fun miles on the odometer. The S4 it's a blast, but when I get into the M it still seems like a very special car in comparison. I almost bought a 911 when I got my 3.0 z4. But the one I wanted was just out of my price range. I'm glad it was! Because now I've just got a passion for the body style and definitely this engine. I want a 911 some day too, but only when I have room to keep the M too.
Best review of the M Roadster, period. Amazing insights and production value. And, thanks in part to this video, I’m happy that I can now also say - ‘this one is mine’ ;)
The level of refinement in how this has been made will only go up and up. I can see it already. Subscribed for sure! (At 232 - let's see how high we can go)
Awesome review! My uncle has one and lends it to me for my birthday every year... Most definately my favourite car to drive...I would pick it over his 911 any day!
I think you are spot-on with your review. I have a sapphire black with black top and black interior. It is completely stock but I am impressed with the power and handling. I love my little shark.
RicanGoat It’s an extremely complete package from the factory for sure. Also, great name for them, they do look a bit like sharks haha! Thanks for watching.
4 years ago I drove a 2006 z4m and though it was a "monster" a week later I bought a 2015 boxster gts, great car but not a steet car as I could only use 50% of the power on the local roads. 2 years ago I bought a e46 m3 conv great daily driver. Sold the Porsche GTS because it hit 84mph in second gear which meant to have fun it was illegal and actually frusturating. this video propelled me to recall how great this car is, thank you for a great review that comes from the heart. (bought z4m today) FYI I consider the GTS as scapel and the z4m like a Gunsu Knife. (does everything well but is very dangerous if not used properly. I love that as it take a long time to learn how to use it. Thank you again
Thank you for the kind words and insight. Really like your comparison to the Ginsu knife, the Z4M takes time to truly master and tame. Once you do, it’s an exceptionally satisfying and thrilling little weapon. Enjoy your M!
Thanks for doing some justice to this gem and the stable of E85 Z4 roadsters. All the world's motor journalists are obsessed with JDMs and are very biased towards the likes of Miatas, S2000s, 350/370s and RX7s and barely gives attention or credit to this gem of a car. Audi TTs, Porsche Boxsters, Lotus Elises and even the Fiat 124s gets more limelight and vibe than this magnificent E85 Z4 roadster. I have driven it and in my honest opinion, it's one of the best sports cars I have driven. Seriously and severely under estimated car and I don't understand why it does not get the credit it gets. Chris Bangle's design is sublime and no modern BMW can match this flame surfacing and seductive styling which have been copied by other automakers today, including the Alfa Romeo 4C and the new Supra. I think this lack of attention is what makes this car even more seductive and dangerous looking.
I've owned 12 BMW's from the 3 series to the 7 series and loved them all. I've been thinking about one of these and watching some reviews. Your review covered the important drivability factors I hadn't heard before. A few times if I would have closed my eyes and just listened to what you were saying ... I swear it sounded a lot like you were driving a 1980's Porsche 911. Very nice review!!!
greek0818 do you know if these cars are reliable or have a lot of problems? I just got my first car & I want to work for the summer to get a z4 instead
Abraham C As a first (or close second) car I would really recommend a little E46 or E36 3 series first. They’ll be cheaper and a better car to learn to drive quick, more forgiving. As far as reliability, the M is plenty reliable but very very expensive to fix. If your heart is set on a Z, get a 2.5 or 3.0L car, those engines are far cheaper to maintain.
greek0818 Thank you greek, I’ve owned a couple of E46s and a 545i Dinan with a 6MT and the Z is an absolute riot. The feeling of driving mine quickly is still just as exciting as it was last year, the first day I bought it.
BuzzytheBlue thanks for the advice man I went to see one the other day & I am in love with them. I am going to get a 3.0 by the time school comes back around hopefully. Right now I have a 09 mazda3. I like it for my first car but I’ve always wanted a car like the z
Abraham C Awesome man, glad I could be of some help. The 3.0 is an excellent car, will be a ton of fun. Check back in when you get one, would love to hear about it.
Great review! I bought a sapphire black coupe two years ago after a long winter search and agree with everything you said. Too crazy for a daily driver because of crazy traffic and awful roads here but a great weekend toy on country roads! I find strangely that ist great on the highway at 80+
Gary Permanent Thanks Gary! I’m glad I waited and got a Sapphire Black one too. Yours must be gorgeous as a coupe. And yeah the high speed stability is surprisingly strong for a little car.
GREAT GREAT review these are one of the motoring worlds BEST kept secrets, interesting facts, did you know this roadster has a higher torsional rigidity than the e46 m3 coupe?? Super impressive! At the time was regularly chosen over the boxster S and rivals , and in todays world you Pay ALOT of money for the same formula , and the engine in such a small and relatively light car is NUTS without doubt one of the best engines produced for a mass manufacture car, the steering with that hydraulic rack is just wow..... i LOVe mine, with some small well choose ( but expensive) changes these become a very very serious performance car! Excellent review! Try one of these with a properly setup set of dampers and some bolt ons... you will be shocked! These are very rare and I'm sure one day will be expensive as hell. i have the stage 2 supercharger and mines a no stone unturned build in a car I've owned from new, its wonderful!!!
Averagedudereivews Thank you! Believe it or not I actually had a segment discussing their torsional rigidity but it didn’t make it in for audio reasons lol! That subject becomes especially impressive when you compare them to the E46 convertibles, which are wet noodles by comparison. Also, you have the VT-520 on yours?!?! How do you like it?
Yes had it for many year went through the stages, its awesome, literally one of the best choices I've ever made, I've got the KW club sports, VT engine mounts, AP 6 pot BBK front and rear, semi slick tyres, and much much more, i can tell you other than i recently went to make the move into the cayman gt4 and my little build up z4m made it seem slow and uneventful. Well done, start working on it and the jackpot soon come!!
@@volkerarminhafner8530 its abit more than a stage 2 now.... last dyno was 527hp .. its since had some changes.... check my channel its in the Kranzle video and also it can be seen running in the diamond mat review.
I just got a Z4M Coupe and agree entirely. It's my daily driver and it makes me very happy. I love walking up to a what look like an automotive piece of art and I love how rewarding it is to drive. Agree entirely, it requires a lot of attention to drive properly, well and smoothly and practice to drive pushing the limits.
Underated is the right worried.... A very good package if you love analog driving. The creature comforts are minimal because it is a pure driving machine. Mine is a '06Z4M roadster with imola red interior. The car just begs to be driven fast, it eats up back roads like crazy. Everything about the car is mechanical, nothing artificial. Every Saturday morning is a joy to take her out and enjoy pure open top driving. Who needs a radio when this S54 engine and exhaust are singing such an awesome metallic melody. I'll keep mine forever.
@@gavinreeves7293 no need for that yet, been keeping my eye on it. Sitting at 36K miles. The one item that needed service was all the rear frame bushings, that was the last big item I did last year.
gteat video! i own a z4 e85 2.5i too, totally black beauty aswell! i really love this car since 13years, meanwhile 150k miles down the road..drive fast, drive safe, best wishes
Love the fact that you aren't trying to be a jokester through the whole thing. Good knowledge and discussion. Very nice. I put Eibach springs all the way around my baby, and have the ESS flash as my ECM program. I would suggest these to anyone. Next, since I'm keeping this car no matter what my 911 Turbo S says, is the ESS supercharger. This car is a sleeper, and you have discovered that and made yours quite a beauty. I have Pilot Super Sports on her, by the way!
SeerTrulth Thanks man, that’s a huge compliment. Exactly what I’m going for. I’m planning on doing the ESS Vt1-450 kit this summer actually! And I have PSS on mine as well, they suit the car perfectly. Like you said, I plan on keeping it forever too.
What's funny is, I can't really drive this to its max, yet I want the ESS stuff! Crazy. She snaps my neck all the time, but less and less as I learn to work with her light lines, her little planted excellence.
SeerTrulth Autocrossing the car really helped me to approach its limits more comfortably. I had it up at Limerock once and it let me learn a great deal about the car. I’d recommend doing it at least once; the car was unbelievable.
Everyone who pushes this car on track or in structured race systems says it dominates like a sleeper. I have Mid-Ohio raceway here near me, and will be doing that next spring.
Great video! Really well done, you can't find a bad angle on this car. Agree with your review completely, though I still get frustrated there isn't even a storage place big enough to put my glasses in the car. Only negative marks against this piece of perfection. Love your video though, some really beautiful shots in there.
Pearson Sharp Thank you, Pearson! It's a really gratifying car to shoot because, as you said, it really is gorgeous from any angle. On another note, when I first bought the car, I genuinely cracked up laughing when I opened the glovebox haha.
S'up Buzzy? Very nice video. I think it's one of the better presentations of the car. It certainly drove up my Z4M lust quotient! Thank you for sharing. Can I assume you still have the car?
Nicely done. Am looking at the Z4s presently. Possibly a Z4M, one of them had a right front end accident and the repair was in the $ 12k range couple of years ago, which is too bad as it looks gorgeous. There is another I’m contemplating on but I’m not thrilled with the color and am still waiting on additional history details. Time will tell.
Definitely wait and find the right example, you’ll kick yourself if you buy one in the “wrong” color combo for you. I very nearly bought a grey over black example before I got this Carbon Sapphire over Brown one, so happy I waited.
Great review Love seeing videos on these cars but not too many quality pieces of content like this out there I have a fully prepped Z4mc track car but had a Z4mr before and they are SPECTACULAR. Congrats on your lovely example in sapphire Drivers car that will stand the test of time Great production quality and comments Subscribed!
Oliver Jones Thank you Oliver. Like you said, there isn’t much content on these cars so I am excited to do more in the future. Also, your track prepped example must be an absolute blast to drive. I did an AutoX event at LimeRock last season and was blown away by the car, even in stock form.
cheers mate Yeah I'm gonna put some video of it on my (very amateur) home channel 911dubm3 soon! Can't wait for more content from you - if you ever want to review any in my collection including the z4 just let me know
Oliver Jones Really appreciate that man. I’ve got a couple more reviews coming up soon. And depending on distance, I’d definitely take you up on that one day; Im out of Connecticut.
BuzzytheBlue Great look forward to the new videos Like others here I see a bright future for this channel Very honest and clear presentations of each car I'm outside Philly Shoot me a message if you want to review any: -911 turbo -E36 m3 track car -VW GLI -Z4mc
I love the chocolate leather in this... Not available in the UK, that I've see. it looks awesome. I have both an M Roadster and a 2.0 as DD... Love the E85 that much! What spacers did you use please?
Fantastic review; you only discuss the relevant points a true drive would appreciate and realize. Sold my Porsche Boxster GTS 6mt (great "dancer" car) ; just got a 06 z4m Roadster I feel like I bought a animal that needs to be restrained and am excited that it has a slow learning curve by which I will not get bored. Your review was a major deciding factor in buying the car. Another happy soul because of your review. FYI what state do you live in?
Awesome, so glad to hear that it was helpful to you. Enjoy your Z! Highly recommend doing any kind of autoCross with it, it’s a great way to safely learn the car’s dynamics and become comfortable. I’m in CT so I have access to Limerock’s excellent autoX course.
Wow I’ve never heard someone make that switch, what’s your reasoning? I only ask because the 1M is such a rarity. Haven’t driven one myself. And thank you!
@@BuzzytheBlue Hey man, i have had a 1M since new and will never sell it. I love the analogue feeling as it is one of the last great BMW's made imo and will only go up in value too. Having said that i just also bought a 2008 Z4M silver on red leather and will pick it up next week. I drove one once a few years ago and it had that same analogue feeling. Cars lack that these days. I love your comment about no GPS. I purposely ordered my 1M without it as i thought the same and that it would age better with less. Glad i did. Can't wait to get the roadster. I'm lucky enough to be at a stage in my life where i can afford to keep both. I also have a B9 S4 which is my main DD which does the job fine and is comfy but when i want to have fun there's nothing like a BMW inline 6 and rowing thru the gears. @Arthur Teo if you can keep the 1M try to but i understand if that's not a possibility. Good luck.
Thank you! Very interesting to hear from someone with a 1M and Z4M. In some little way I think it even reaffirms my appreciation of the Z. Also, great set of cars you’ve chosen!
Great review! One of the major reasons I pulled the trigger on a 2008 M Roadster. Can you tell me what your smart phone holder is? Please do more content!
Thank you! I believe it’s this one. I’ve had it for years. Car Phone Mount, Newward 2-in-1 Long Arm Windshield Dashboard Cell Phone Holder for Car Compatible with iPhone 11/11 Pro/Xs/XR/X/8 Plus/8/7/6, Galaxy S20/S10/S9/S9 /Note 10/S8, Huawei and More www.amazon.com/dp/B019T4RBQ8/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_hFGdGbV9WE8XJ?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
Great vid! Awesome job detailing your experience with the Z4M.....I have a ‘16 35is and love it(my 2nd). I tested the new gen Z4 and it does not feel like a BMW😩😩😩
Aftermarket suspension _not needed. Just put in Koni dual adjustable rear shocks as listed for an early 2000's ford Mustang, ~2002 model year style. Set the rebound ~3/4 turn, bump 8 - 10 clicks. Sitcks the tail EXACTLY where you want to put it. Maybe put Coupe rear springs and swaybar in the rear too, and the big H&R 31mm front swaybar. Else, the suspension is sweet just as BMW sold it.
Great video - I love my 2008 Z4M Roadster - mine is Sapphire Black Metallic with black seats and SS trim. Did you have your wheels painted? They look awesome in black. Also, are those Michelin Pilot Sports? Stock staggered sizes? Thank you!
mikedev Thank you! I had the stock wheels powder coated gloss black, yeah. I love how they turned out and it saved me a bunch of money over buying another set. And yes they are Pilot Super Sports with the stock stagger 225-255.
I am at a loss for what I’d replace mine with. For a “similar but better” driving experience I’d probably be looking at far more expensive options from Porsche.
I bought my 2008 model one year old demonstrator and due to other cars it's hardly been used (15,000 miles garaged) However I just can't get myself to sell it. Yes it's very basic, navigation package rubbish, that telephone stuff on steering wheel-what is it, pairing with a phone-not easy, no auxiliary music plug and UK road tax very top category. BUT the rawness makes it attractive, less to go wrong, built proof engine, proper gearbox-first very short though. Ragtop becoming very rare now looks good. Bit of a sleeper motorised skateboard buzz box. Very reliable real roadster. You would have to pay a fortune for a supercar which this does in it's own little way. Prices have bottomed out, they didn't make that many, so I'll keep it.
I am in my 50's now and will be buying a Z4 of some description soon, I am sick of the modern cars with front-engine and front-wheel drive and all of the electrics making it work while losing a lot of the fun. To be honest, the Pugeuot 208 1.2 I currently have is faster than my first car a Vauxhall Chevette, but the Chevette was rear-wheel drive and so much fun to drive. I cannot wait to be driving a real car again and not something I just sit in and steer!!
I subscribed at 150, remember me! lol great review, well articulated, remain classy and don't indulge into that clickbait, vehicle virgins style and you will prosper!
Good review! I have the M coupe and I love the looks mainly, it's a bit of a workout around town where I like my other cars more. On longer trips or track tho, it's great!
hbi1994 I’m obviously biased but.... go for the Z4M man. They’re kind of in different leagues as far as performance go. With a few small tweaks, mainly adding some camber to the front end, they are very capable track cars.
The Z4M is the only way to go. I was lucky enough to find and purchase one a few years ago and love it more every day! One of the best investments I have ever made. People ask what kind of car it is and I have had several ask if it is a brand new car. It drives how you want it to drive. It could easily be a Summer daily driver but can scare you thoroughly if so inclined. This is the best true sports car you can find today!
That's so funny. When I bought my Z4 M Coupe, I cross shopped that S2000 without the top... The Club Sport model? Either car is pretty amazing for the track, the Z4 gave me luxury when I want it, and performance when I track it. In the end, I knew either car was going to be above my skill, but the Z4 had some great lines to it. I'm injecting my bias here, but the S2000 always had a pinewood derby car shape to me
How are the running costs? I know most people shy away from the e46 m3 because everything is 3x the price of the 330 beneath it for only marginal performance difference. Would that be true of the 3 litre vs the M Z4 too?
I’d be skeptical of anyone saying that a 330 - M3 or 3.0 - Z4M is a marginal performance difference. The M54B30 is a great engine but the S54 is a completely different animal. As is the limited slip differential and suspension setup. As far as running costs I’d also say 3x is too extreme. The Ms cost a bit more to maintain but not exponentially.
It's been years since I posted this review, I still have the Z4M, and never plan to sell it. I seldom drive another car that even makes me consider doing so, but I recently did exactly that. I had the privilege to drive/review a 2017 Mercedes AMG GT. If you want to see what I'd replace my Z4M with, go take a look. th-cam.com/video/puXsLu6zAvQ/w-d-xo.html
I have a Z4 2.5 i. I love it. The M is great, but can be a nigtmare once it starts getting ECU codes. 192hp its plenty for me. I just want to fit in a LSD and keep it forever.
Boi I actually haven’t seen anyone replace the optional GPS with a different system. If that was possible then yeah that would be awesome. Something like a modern iDrive system.
It's strange but E85 and E89 owners or lovers, seem to be polarised by their individual looks as well.. and I like both..but prefer the the NA sound.. and manual box.
I’d probably love an E89 but it would be for very different reasons than my E85 . The weight and size increase, and lack of an M car for the generation makes them much more GT car than sports car. Beautiful interiors and styling but less focused.
Joel Brennan I’d say it compares extremely closely to a Boxster S. The cars have very different characters and represent different drivers though. The M lacks the overall finesse of the Boxster but is more raw and powerful. Personally, I found the excitement provided by the M to be more than worth what it gives up in chassis dynamics.
BuzzytheBlue I'm not in the market for these cars right now but the BMW just seems like a better car. I love the 911 a lot because it's more raw than a Boxster but it just feels to me the Boxster can be boring, especially compared to the BMW. Luckily the roadster version, like your car, hasn't started skyrocketing in value like the coupe so *for now* it's affordable. $25k for that or a new base Cooper S seems like an easy decision...
Joel Brennan I agree.The Boxster is a bit clinical by comparison, lacks character. Whereas the M has it pouring out of every panel. It’s a car you fall in love with. Honestly, I’ve seen comments on this video of owners saying they wouldn’t even trade theirs for a Cayman GT4. Or that their 911 Turbos aren’t getting driven as often as their M. I can’t speak to that but there’s definitely something special about these cars.
Please gift us another z4 m video. I’m about to buy it and in my waiting i will love to know and look more of yours. Grazie... ciao dall’Italia (Firenze!)
Thanks! In person this black (Carbon sapphire metallic) has a LOT of depth to it so I don’t think videos do it justice. Agree the red and grey would be another great combo.
At the time of this video the car just had an RPI axle back exhaust. Car now has catless headers and an Evolve Carbon airbox. Videos up of the car with those as well.
steve 26171 The 3.0 is a great motor, plenty of power for this car and quite reliable but modding wise there isn’t much. To make any substantial gains with it you’d be doing a supercharger, which would be too expensive on that car. If you test drive it and it isn’t fast enough for you stock, I’d save up for a faster car. Plus you wouldn’t really want to run more power through that cars rear end anyway, as it’s an open diff, unlike the limited slip on the M.
I love mine. I have the n52. u can swap out the intake manifold with the 3 stage intake manifold and a tune and make it have the same power output as an "si"
Not quite that simple, the n52 doesn't have a conventional throttle body but instead uses Valvetronic which alters valve lift to control throttle. The earlier M54 is normal throttle body.
I've owned a 2008 roadster from one year old and it's a great little package. Yes I have the sat nav as it was an expensive extra, not great but keeps the car top spec. Also got the rear sensors but couldn't get the folding mirrors as I wanted the interlegaros blue. I have very low mileage and always garaged, used as a third car. Very unnoticed, which is good in London. Can't see me selling it now as they've hit the bottom and can only go up as they are a good old fashioned powerful uncomplicated roadster, With a Gear Stick!!.Never seen those bonnet louver's though.
Fiveoh Four Not cowl shake whatsoever. It’s an issue with the way the stock suspension is set up. The roadster is actually more rigid than the E46 M3 coupe, so that’s a non issue.
BuzzytheBlue yea I knew that but sometimes you’ll get that flex regardless even if to a much lesser degree. Anyway interesting so is it understeer maybe? Does liberal application of the throttle correct it? Or it’s not turn in related or traction related but still a suspension thing? Anyhow sorry not trying to interrogate you just curious what exactly it feels like
Fiveoh Four No worries, this is the kind of discussion I hoped these videos would facilitate. To describe it better, mid corner bumps at high speed unsettle the car somewhat, they don’t induce over or understeer (so not traction related) but it does seem to “jump” for lack of a better word. The rear of the car specifically, seems incapable of adjusting quickly enough to mid corner bumps. I think a firmer rear setup would solve it.
BuzzytheBlue adjusting fast enough as in rebound/compression then as opposed to getting unsettled and not recovering like you’re dragging the back end around and it’s not following the lines around the track/road it otherwise would? The former really reminds me most of driving a mustang with a solid rear axel and how they hop based on your description. I wonder if your suspension is out of spec somehow or it’s just a trait of that suspension, if you have a Matt Farah type of friend or a mechanic friend you trust it may be worth getting their opinion after taking it for a drive. Also, not that you haven’t already thought of all of this, but the forums are a pretty great resource for info and feedback for this sort of thing, you just have to be careful of the bloated ego back seat pro’s that Think know everything but that’s usually pretty easy.
Quite a few Non-M Z4’s were sold. However, at least in North America the number of Z4Ms is very low. Believe the number is around 1800 coupes and 3000 roadster during their 2006-2008 run.
www.carsaddiction.com/en/productiontotal/bmw/Z4M Credit to carsaddiction. Great data. e.g. my Interlagos Blue coupe, RHD, extended black leather, 1 of 29 produced.
Fiveoh Four lol you aren’t seeing things. It is the stock hood modified with TrackSpec Motorsports heat extractors. Reduces engine bay temp and front end lift. There are also plans to supercharge this car, so the reduction in temps is even more important.
BuzzytheBlue what kind of supercharger? Made for the z4m or can you use ones for other S54 equipped cars? Do you need to do any supporting mods to handle boost we’ll/reinforced internals? I get the instinct to go with supercharging since you kind of get to keep the original linear nature of the power band, but for that exact reason a turbo set up would probably be epic just to kind of give the ability to have two polar opposite experiences. Lastly, what are you expecting to invest all in for the supercharger setup? Oh also, do you know if there’s options out there for more aggressive gearing? I know for the Z3m for instance they used really long gearing to somewhat artificially limit the cars performance and not eat all the M3’s lunch but this was rectified in the after market and maybe even with OEM euro gearing, not entirely sure though as it’s been a long time
Fiveoh Four Great questions. I’m planning to go with an ESS super charger kit, the Vt2-520, it’s the exact same kit that is made for the E46 M3, just different mounting brackets to reflect the different engine bay. As far as supporting mods go, nothing is “required” but rod bearing wear will certainly be accelerated somewhat, so I have future plans to replace them. At the same time,I will likely up-rate the pistons and connecting rods, with the hope of pushing the power even further. All said and done, VT2 kit and built internals is likely $15,000 worth of parts and labor. The kit alone is $8,000.
Fiveoh Four To answer your gearing question, stock gearing is actually quite short at 3.62. However, given the high revving nature of the S54, 3.90 or 4.10 gearsets are pretty common in the aftermarket. It is supposed to be an excellent mod. However, I likely won’t be doing it, as, with the supercharger, traction in the first three gears would be dangerously low.
SeerTrulth Not controversial at all, I wouldn’t have done them if they weren’t at least somewhat functional. Heat management when driving hard is one aspect and then also reduction of lift. Which I’ve noticed on the street even. Air coming into the engine bay normally doesn’t have anywhere to go, and hits the underside of the hood, producing lift. This gives that air an escape route, more stable front end.
Fiveoh Four Nice catch, I meant to say “BMW M’s second take-“ but figured it wasn’t worth another run through of that line. You and one other person have made me think otherwise lol!
BuzzytheBlue lol yep my bad, I actually looked for that comment but didn’t look hard enough clearly. I really wish I’d have been able to afford the z3 m coupe before they went sky high in price wise, I think it I got the z4 I’d have to supercharge it eventually, I kind of wish they’d have made the s54 an aluminum block as the final iteration to send it off in glory in the z4m & to help counteract some of the additional bloat/weight that was gained going from z3 to z4
Second take on a 2 seat roadster? UMM 507 roadster anyone? One of the sexiest cars ever, and the Z1, with doors that opened down into the body cavity instead of out? RESPECT YOUR ELDERS AND GET OFF MY LAWN :P
Fiveoh Four Knew someone would point that out haha. Meant so say “BMW M’s second take on a two seat roadster.” I know there are other, non Ms before the Z3. Just goes to show I should’ve done another take after all!
BuzzytheBlue nah probably not remotely worth another take just to correct a single mistake/prevent comments like mine, especially when considering it’s TH-cam you could create an objectively perfect video, if such a thing was possible, and you’d still get a bunch of childish BS hate comments sprinkled into the comments section
Lovely review. I just purchased a Z4M Roadster a week ago. It was almost a museum piece for the last 4 years. Only 30k miles and in mint condition. I'm still giddy over the attributes of this car. The S54, the manual box, the LSD rear and the joy of an open top. I'm blessed to have found such a good example. Keep up the great vids.
TankEngine15 Totally agree, it’s such a thrilling car to drive. Dynamically I’ve fallen in love with it more than I could’ve imagined. Sounds like you got a gem as well, must be in amazing shape. Thanks for watching.
I've got a 2003 2.5i Z4 roadster with sport pack @ 36k miles, maldives blue, I'll never sell it.
This is my dream car 😭♥️
Thanks for a great review. After 2000+ Nürburgring laps behind the wheel of my Z4M Coupé this little monster still keeps me on edge and hungry for the next corner! Best car in my fleet without a doubt... Cheers
DutchRingRacing Must be an absolute blast of a car on a track like the Nürburgring. Very jealous lol. Thanks for watching.
I too own a 2005 BMW Z4 2.5i in red since new and now has 80,000 miles on it. I didn't drive it much as I bought it for my wife. Recently my grandchildren asked me to take them each for a back country ride in it. I forgot why I bought this car in the first place and always drove one of my vehicles instead. Now 13 years later it came back to me why this car is so special. It is flat out fun to drive and begs for your attention then rewards you when you give it. My local BMW dealer always serviced it and kept it in pristine condition. Now that I have fallen in love with it again I have recently taken over maintenance and discovered how well engineered and simple it was designed. It truly is a driving machine. Thank you for such a very well constructed video of your machine. Straight forward, intelligent communication, and I think you are great guy who knows exactly what you are talking about. Excellent job. I hope you enjoy many more years with your Z4.
Thank you John, that’s very kind of you. Much appreciated and I’m glad to hear you’re enjoying your Z as well.
Just bought a 23k mile Z4M on BaT. Can't wait to drive her for the first time.
Wow that’s a find, congrats!
Probably the best technical driving review I have ever found for this model. BMW reviewers tend to forget the basics; BMW states itself as 'the ultimate driving machine" for a reason. They are meant to be driven, pushed, and enjoyed. The worst fate for any BMW,;Coupe, Convertible, Sedan, or even wagon, is to be driven timidly. Thanks for the great review.
I bought the 3.0i and I'm so happy with it.. i can't imagine how much more fun that M is😍
I'm about to buy a 3.0i!
Awesome review. I've got an Imola Red Z4m roadster and I love it. I bought a silver 3.0 about 5 years ago and wanted just a little more power, grip, sturdiness etc. I priced out mods and decided to just sell it and get the M. This was about 3 years ago. People who don't know what it is think it's new. The people who do know what it is are ecstatic when they see it. I've literally gotten handshakes and "congrats" just for driving it lol. I've got a buddy who has an Audi S3 which has similar performance stats and some how it just seems a bit boring in comparison. M thought of everything on this car from the perfect heel toe position stock to the hydraulic steering and high revving S54. It's a driver's car through and through. I've got a B5 S4 that does my rain, snow and grunt work because the M can get a little exhausting and I I really only want to put fun miles on the odometer. The S4 it's a blast, but when I get into the M it still seems like a very special car in comparison.
I almost bought a 911 when I got my 3.0 z4. But the one I wanted was just out of my price range. I'm glad it was! Because now I've just got a passion for the body style and definitely this engine. I want a 911 some day too, but only when I have room to keep the M too.
Best review of the M Roadster, period. Amazing insights and production value. And, thanks in part to this video, I’m happy that I can now also say - ‘this one is mine’ ;)
Really appreciate that; and welcome to the club! Truly special driving experience for the relatively low cost.
The level of refinement in how this has been made will only go up and up. I can see it already. Subscribed for sure! (At 232 - let's see how high we can go)
Awesome review! My uncle has one and lends it to me for my birthday every year... Most definately my favourite car to drive...I would pick it over his 911 any day!
Misha-James Curley Thank you! It may not be quite as composed as the 911 but it makes up for it with a raw thrill and fun factor for sure.
Well, I watched this video again! One of my fav reruns.
I think you are spot-on with your review. I have a sapphire black with black top and black interior. It is completely stock but I am impressed with the power and handling. I love my little shark.
RicanGoat It’s an extremely complete package from the factory for sure. Also, great name for them, they do look a bit like sharks haha! Thanks for watching.
THAT was Entertaining!! I wanted to watch the entire video, being a Z3 & Z4 owner I can appreciate your love for our autos!!
4 years ago I drove a 2006 z4m and though it was a "monster" a week later I bought a 2015 boxster gts, great car but not a steet car as I could only use 50% of the power on the local roads. 2 years ago I bought a e46 m3 conv great daily driver. Sold the Porsche GTS because it hit 84mph in second gear which meant to have fun it was illegal and actually frusturating.
this video propelled me to recall how great this car is, thank you for a great review that comes from the heart. (bought z4m today) FYI I consider the GTS as scapel and the z4m like a Gunsu Knife. (does everything well but is very dangerous if not used properly. I love that as it take a long time to learn how to use it.
Thank you again
Thank you for the kind words and insight. Really like your comparison to the Ginsu knife, the Z4M takes time to truly master and tame. Once you do, it’s an exceptionally satisfying and thrilling little weapon. Enjoy your M!
A friend of mine has an ESS supercharged 2.5i z4. What an animal. I can only imagine what this is like! Awesome review... enjoy it in good health!
Subbed for not having the gps. Finally someone understands.
Ata Öken It’s one of the only things that dates an otherwise timeless design.
I see this channel going places. Subbed.
MivecEVOxMR Thank you, I never really expected to get more than a couple hundred views lol, so that means a lot.
Thanks for doing some justice to this gem and the stable of E85 Z4 roadsters. All the world's motor journalists are obsessed with JDMs and are very biased towards the likes of Miatas, S2000s, 350/370s and RX7s and barely gives attention or credit to this gem of a car. Audi TTs, Porsche Boxsters, Lotus Elises and even the Fiat 124s gets more limelight and vibe than this magnificent E85 Z4 roadster. I have driven it and in my honest opinion, it's one of the best sports cars I have driven. Seriously and severely under estimated car and I don't understand why it does not get the credit it gets. Chris Bangle's design is sublime and no modern BMW can match this flame surfacing and seductive styling which have been copied by other automakers today, including the Alfa Romeo 4C and the new Supra. I think this lack of attention is what makes this car even more seductive and dangerous looking.
You know how to review a car man👍🏻 never lost interest at all. The rear end of this car HAS to be my favorite 😍
I've owned 12 BMW's from the 3 series to the 7 series and loved them all. I've been thinking about one of these and watching some reviews. Your review covered the important drivability factors I hadn't heard before. A few times if I would have closed my eyes and just listened to what you were saying ... I swear it sounded a lot like you were driving a 1980's Porsche 911. Very nice review!!!
greek0818 do you know if these cars are reliable or have a lot of problems? I just got my first car & I want to work for the summer to get a z4 instead
Abraham C As a first (or close second) car I would really recommend a little E46 or E36 3 series first. They’ll be cheaper and a better car to learn to drive quick, more forgiving. As far as reliability, the M is plenty reliable but very very expensive to fix. If your heart is set on a Z, get a 2.5 or 3.0L car, those engines are far cheaper to maintain.
greek0818 Thank you greek, I’ve owned a couple of E46s and a 545i Dinan with a 6MT and the Z is an absolute riot. The feeling of driving mine quickly is still just as exciting as it was last year, the first day I bought it.
BuzzytheBlue thanks for the advice man I went to see one the other day & I am in love with them. I am going to get a 3.0 by the time school comes back around hopefully. Right now I have a 09 mazda3. I like it for my first car but I’ve always wanted a car like the z
Abraham C Awesome man, glad I could be of some help. The 3.0 is an excellent car, will be a ton of fun. Check back in when you get one, would love to hear about it.
Great review! I bought a sapphire black coupe two years ago after a long winter search and agree with everything you said. Too crazy for a daily driver because of crazy traffic and awful roads here but a great weekend toy on country roads! I find strangely that ist great on the highway at 80+
Gary Permanent Thanks Gary! I’m glad I waited and got a Sapphire Black one too. Yours must be gorgeous as a coupe. And yeah the high speed stability is surprisingly strong for a little car.
You deserve more subs mate
I have always loved these cars! They drive like go carts. I would love to get a chance to drive the M version of this car.
Driver's Side They really do, for a toy or weekender it's such a complete package. Such fun little cars.
I have a Z3 M Roadster. Also a blast to drive.
one of the best m car of bmw design enigne all
GREAT GREAT review these are one of the motoring worlds BEST kept secrets, interesting facts, did you know this roadster has a higher torsional rigidity than the e46 m3 coupe?? Super impressive! At the time was regularly chosen over the boxster S and rivals , and in todays world you Pay ALOT of money for the same formula , and the engine in such a small and relatively light car is NUTS without doubt one of the best engines produced for a mass manufacture car, the steering with that hydraulic rack is just wow..... i LOVe mine, with some small well choose ( but expensive) changes these become a very very serious performance car! Excellent review! Try one of these with a properly setup set of dampers and some bolt ons... you will be shocked! These are very rare and I'm sure one day will be expensive as hell.
i have the stage 2 supercharger and mines a no stone unturned build in a car I've owned from new, its wonderful!!!
Averagedudereivews Thank you! Believe it or not I actually had a segment discussing their torsional rigidity but it didn’t make it in for audio reasons lol! That subject becomes especially impressive when you compare them to the E46 convertibles, which are wet noodles by comparison. Also, you have the VT-520 on yours?!?! How do you like it?
Yes had it for many year went through the stages, its awesome, literally one of the best choices I've ever made, I've got the KW club sports, VT engine mounts, AP 6 pot BBK front and rear, semi slick tyres, and much much more, i can tell you other than i recently went to make the move into the cayman gt4 and my little build up z4m made it seem slow and uneventful. Well done, start working on it and the jackpot soon come!!
I miss my brothers z3 m that drowned in hurricane Katrina
How many horsepower has your car with the stage 2 supercharger.
@@volkerarminhafner8530 its abit more than a stage 2 now.... last dyno was 527hp .. its since had some changes.... check my channel its in the Kranzle video and also it can be seen running in the diamond mat review.
Great Video Man! There needs to be more Z4 content, its such an amazing car!
Grazie! Bel video! Belle riprese della macchina e informazioni intelligenti! Ciao dall’Italia!
Grazie, Simone! Ciao dall'America!
Well done. Keep the content coming. I feel like you'll be going places before long.
Mark Paul Thank you, Mark. I really appreciate that. Drives me to continue improving.
I just got a Z4M Coupe and agree entirely. It's my daily driver and it makes me very happy. I love walking up to a what look like an automotive piece of art and I love how rewarding it is to drive. Agree entirely, it requires a lot of attention to drive properly, well and smoothly and practice to drive pushing the limits.
Jason Doege Wish I lived somewhere I could daily drive my M, but it makes it even more special when the season comes around. Thanks for watching.
Great review, hope your channel grows! The steering rack is not the CSL rack (14.5:1), it's actually a quicker rack (13.7:1).
Adrian Stanford Thank you! And wow I didn’t know that, explains why the difference between a standard M3 and the Z4M is so drastic.
I’ve read that the Z4MC a better rack than Z4MR.
The coupe and roadster both have different ratio racks
@@e4dorlathey both have different ratios
Underated is the right worried.... A very good package if you love analog driving. The creature comforts are minimal because it is a pure driving machine. Mine is a '06Z4M roadster with imola red interior. The car just begs to be driven fast, it eats up back roads like crazy. Everything about the car is mechanical, nothing artificial. Every Saturday morning is a joy to take her out and enjoy pure open top driving. Who needs a radio when this S54 engine and exhaust are singing such an awesome metallic melody. I'll keep mine forever.
Do you still have it?
@@gavinreeves7293 I do!
@@quattro30 Have you had the rod bearings changed?
@@gavinreeves7293 no need for that yet, been keeping my eye on it. Sitting at 36K miles. The one item that needed service was all the rear frame bushings, that was the last big item I did last year.
Looks great Zach! Very professional
Thank youuu!
dude that's an amazing vid! i adore this car and you done it justic. Mate way to go.
great video! I have a e85 Z4 2.5l and it is awesome!
gteat video! i own a z4 e85 2.5i too, totally black beauty aswell! i really love this car since 13years, meanwhile 150k miles down the road..drive fast, drive safe, best wishes
@@isonic9479 Oh wow, I only got 110k miles in my Z4
@@thomastalks3841 110k...lucky you...smile..take care
Love the fact that you aren't trying to be a jokester through the whole thing. Good knowledge and discussion. Very nice.
I put Eibach springs all the way around my baby, and have the ESS flash as my ECM program. I would suggest these to anyone. Next, since I'm keeping this car no matter what my 911 Turbo S says, is the ESS supercharger. This car is a sleeper, and you have discovered that and made yours quite a beauty.
I have Pilot Super Sports on her, by the way!
SeerTrulth Thanks man, that’s a huge compliment. Exactly what I’m going for.
I’m planning on doing the ESS Vt1-450 kit this summer actually! And I have PSS on mine as well, they suit the car perfectly. Like you said, I plan on keeping it forever too.
What's funny is, I can't really drive this to its max, yet I want the ESS stuff! Crazy.
She snaps my neck all the time, but less and less as I learn to work with her light lines, her little planted excellence.
SeerTrulth Autocrossing the car really helped me to approach its limits more comfortably. I had it up at Limerock once and it let me learn a great deal about the car. I’d recommend doing it at least once; the car was unbelievable.
Everyone who pushes this car on track or in structured race systems says it dominates like a sleeper. I have Mid-Ohio raceway here near me, and will be doing that next spring.
You haven't done anything yet with the springs or overall suspension? That is a goldmine ahead of you!
Great video! Really well done, you can't find a bad angle on this car. Agree with your review completely, though I still get frustrated there isn't even a storage place big enough to put my glasses in the car. Only negative marks against this piece of perfection. Love your video though, some really beautiful shots in there.
Pearson Sharp Thank you, Pearson! It's a really gratifying car to shoot because, as you said, it really is gorgeous from any angle. On another note, when I first bought the car, I genuinely cracked up laughing when I opened the glovebox haha.
S'up Buzzy? Very nice video. I think it's one of the better presentations of the car. It certainly drove up my Z4M lust quotient! Thank you for sharing. Can I assume you still have the car?
Thank you, really appreciate that! And yes, I still own the car. Just recently put an Evolve CSL style carbon airbox on it.
Good review. You’re gonna do well man. Hope you have success with the TH-cam thing
Michael Hanson Thanks, Michael. Really appreciate that.
Nicely done. Am looking at the Z4s presently. Possibly a Z4M, one of them had a right front end accident and the repair was in the $ 12k range couple of years ago, which is too bad as it looks gorgeous. There is another I’m contemplating on but I’m not thrilled with the color and am still waiting on additional history details. Time will tell.
Definitely wait and find the right example, you’ll kick yourself if you buy one in the “wrong” color combo for you. I very nearly bought a grey over black example before I got this Carbon Sapphire over Brown one, so happy I waited.
BuzzytheBlue thank you for the advice.
Solamente sin palabras 🤩
Great review
Love seeing videos on these cars but not too many quality pieces of content like this out there
I have a fully prepped Z4mc track car but had a Z4mr before and they are SPECTACULAR.
Congrats on your lovely example in sapphire
Drivers car that will stand the test of time
Great production quality and comments
Subscribed!
Oliver Jones Thank you Oliver. Like you said, there isn’t much content on these cars so I am excited to do more in the future. Also, your track prepped example must be an absolute blast to drive. I did an AutoX event at LimeRock last season and was blown away by the car, even in stock form.
cheers mate
Yeah I'm gonna put some video of it on my (very amateur) home channel 911dubm3 soon!
Can't wait for more content from you - if you ever want to review any in my collection including the z4 just let me know
Oliver Jones Really appreciate that man. I’ve got a couple more reviews coming up soon. And depending on distance, I’d definitely take you up on that one day; Im out of Connecticut.
BuzzytheBlue
Great look forward to the new videos
Like others here I see a bright future for this channel
Very honest and clear presentations of each car
I'm outside Philly
Shoot me a message if you want to review any:
-911 turbo
-E36 m3 track car
-VW GLI
-Z4mc
I love the chocolate leather in this... Not available in the UK, that I've see. it looks awesome.
I have both an M Roadster and a 2.0 as DD... Love the E85 that much! What spacers did you use please?
Great review and what a machine
Nice!!!!! for me best car in the world
great review, perfectly done
Fantastic review; you only discuss the relevant points a true drive would appreciate and realize. Sold my Porsche Boxster GTS 6mt (great "dancer" car) ; just got a 06 z4m Roadster I feel like I bought a animal that needs to be restrained and am excited that it has a slow learning curve by which I will not get bored. Your review was a major deciding factor in buying the car. Another happy soul because of your review. FYI what state do you live in?
Awesome, so glad to hear that it was helpful to you. Enjoy your Z! Highly recommend doing any kind of autoCross with it, it’s a great way to safely learn the car’s dynamics and become comfortable. I’m in CT so I have access to Limerock’s excellent autoX course.
Great review. For 3 years I own z4 2.2 and it feels sooo slow. Can't wait to buy M. I hope it will be totally other movie.
Good job, Thanks for awesome review
Hey buddy about to take the plunge changing a 1M out for a Z4M. Thanks for your videos!
Wow I’ve never heard someone make that switch, what’s your reasoning? I only ask because the 1M is such a rarity. Haven’t driven one myself. And thank you!
@@BuzzytheBlue Hey man, i have had a 1M since new and will never sell it. I love the analogue feeling as it is one of the last great BMW's made imo and will only go up in value too. Having said that i just also bought a 2008 Z4M silver on red leather and will pick it up next week. I drove one once a few years ago and it had that same analogue feeling. Cars lack that these days. I love your comment about no GPS. I purposely ordered my 1M without it as i thought the same and that it would age better with less. Glad i did. Can't wait to get the roadster. I'm lucky enough to be at a stage in my life where i can afford to keep both. I also have a B9 S4 which is my main DD which does the job fine and is comfy but when i want to have fun there's nothing like a BMW inline 6 and rowing thru the gears. @Arthur Teo if you can keep the 1M try to but i understand if that's not a possibility. Good luck.
ohhh, and great honest review btw. Thoroughly enjoyed it.
Thank you! Very interesting to hear from someone with a 1M and Z4M. In some little way I think it even reaffirms my appreciation of the Z. Also, great set of cars you’ve chosen!
Great review! One of the major reasons I pulled the trigger on a 2008 M Roadster. Can you tell me what your smart phone holder is? Please do more content!
Thank you! I believe it’s this one. I’ve had it for years.
Car Phone Mount, Newward 2-in-1 Long Arm Windshield Dashboard Cell Phone Holder for Car Compatible with iPhone 11/11 Pro/Xs/XR/X/8 Plus/8/7/6, Galaxy S20/S10/S9/S9 /Note 10/S8, Huawei and More www.amazon.com/dp/B019T4RBQ8/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_hFGdGbV9WE8XJ?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
Great vid! Awesome job detailing your experience with the Z4M.....I have a ‘16 35is and love it(my 2nd). I tested the new gen Z4 and it does not feel like a BMW😩😩😩
Really good review dude helped me out
Thank you, glad you enjoyed.
Great review of my car!
Most beautiful car ever!!!!!!!!
Thank you! I love mine.
I have an 03 black on black 3.0 6 speed rag top. I love that thing.
I own one of these its a masterpiece it truly is :)
Aftermarket suspension _not needed. Just put in Koni dual adjustable rear shocks as listed for an early 2000's ford Mustang, ~2002 model year style. Set the rebound ~3/4 turn, bump 8 - 10 clicks. Sitcks the tail EXACTLY where you want to put it. Maybe put Coupe rear springs and swaybar in the rear too, and the big H&R 31mm front swaybar. Else, the suspension is sweet just as BMW sold it.
great review, you seem like you're a really good driver. perfect heel toe every time
Nick Thanks, Nick. Driving is pretty much my favorite thing to do so I try to be somewhat decent haha.
Great video - I love my 2008 Z4M Roadster - mine is Sapphire Black Metallic with black seats and SS trim. Did you have your wheels painted? They look awesome in black. Also, are those Michelin Pilot Sports? Stock staggered sizes? Thank you!
mikedev Thank you! I had the stock wheels powder coated gloss black, yeah. I love how they turned out and it saved me a bunch of money over buying another set. And yes they are Pilot Super Sports with the stock stagger 225-255.
Great video keep it up bro
Subscribed! Amazing review!
Eidrian111 Thank you!
The most underated sports car on the planet which is very superior to most sports cars out there. That's what makes it so sexy.
I am at a loss for what I’d replace mine with. For a “similar but better” driving experience I’d probably be looking at far more expensive options from Porsche.
Danke für das Video!
Ich fahre den 3,0 e85
Viele Grüße,
Achim
I bought my 2008 model one year old demonstrator and due to other cars it's hardly been used (15,000 miles garaged) However I just can't get myself to sell it. Yes it's very basic, navigation package rubbish, that telephone stuff on steering wheel-what is it, pairing with a phone-not easy, no auxiliary music plug and UK road tax very top category. BUT the rawness makes it attractive, less to go wrong, built proof engine, proper gearbox-first very short though. Ragtop becoming very rare now looks good. Bit of a sleeper motorised skateboard buzz box. Very reliable real roadster. You would have to pay a fortune for a supercar which this does in it's own little way. Prices have bottomed out, they didn't make that many, so I'll keep it.
I am in my 50's now and will be buying a Z4 of some description soon, I am sick of the modern cars with front-engine and front-wheel drive and all of the electrics making it work while losing a lot of the fun. To be honest, the Pugeuot 208 1.2 I currently have is faster than my first car a Vauxhall Chevette, but the Chevette was rear-wheel drive and so much fun to drive. I cannot wait to be driving a real car again and not something I just sit in and steer!!
I subscribed at 150, remember me! lol great review, well articulated, remain classy and don't indulge into that clickbait, vehicle virgins style and you will prosper!
Ahmad Talat Thanks Ahmad! And that’s the plan. This is a car channel, not a vlog.
Fucking awesome! Congratulations
Good video. Great car. New subscriber.
love this
Great video man! Love the intro!
I have a Z4 too (video of it on my channel)
Good review! I have the M coupe and I love the looks mainly, it's a bit of a workout around town where I like my other cars more. On longer trips or track tho, it's great!
I've narrowed my designated track/project car down to the Z4 M and the S2000... by far the toughest decision I've yet to make!
hbi1994 I’m obviously biased but.... go for the Z4M man. They’re kind of in different leagues as far as performance go. With a few small tweaks, mainly adding some camber to the front end, they are very capable track cars.
BuzzytheBlue After watching your awesome review, I'm definitely leaning towards the Z4 M that's for sure! Keep up the great work!
hbi1994 Thanks man, I really appreciate that. Best of luck with finding the car!
The Z4M is the only way to go. I was lucky enough to find and purchase one a few years ago and love it more every day! One of the best investments I have ever made. People ask what kind of car it is and I have had several ask if it is a brand new car. It drives how you want it to drive. It could easily be a Summer daily driver but can scare you thoroughly if so inclined. This is the best true sports car you can find today!
That's so funny. When I bought my Z4 M Coupe, I cross shopped that S2000 without the top... The Club Sport model? Either car is pretty amazing for the track, the Z4 gave me luxury when I want it, and performance when I track it. In the end, I knew either car was going to be above my skill, but the Z4 had some great lines to it. I'm injecting my bias here, but the S2000 always had a pinewood derby car shape to me
How are the running costs? I know most people shy away from the e46 m3 because everything is 3x the price of the 330 beneath it for only marginal performance difference. Would that be true of the 3 litre vs the M Z4 too?
I’d be skeptical of anyone saying that a 330 - M3 or 3.0 - Z4M is a marginal performance difference. The M54B30 is a great engine but the S54 is a completely different animal. As is the limited slip differential and suspension setup. As far as running costs I’d also say 3x is too extreme. The Ms cost a bit more to maintain but not exponentially.
It's been years since I posted this review, I still have the Z4M, and never plan to sell it. I seldom drive another car that even makes me consider doing so, but I recently did exactly that. I had the privilege to drive/review a 2017 Mercedes AMG GT. If you want to see what I'd replace my Z4M with, go take a look.
th-cam.com/video/puXsLu6zAvQ/w-d-xo.html
what shifter does the owner have on? It looks amazing.
It’s a Bavarian AutoSport aluminum shifter. It’s kind of pricy but feels great and I love the look with the other aluminum trim.
I have a Z4 2.5 i. I love it. The M is great, but can be a nigtmare once it starts getting ECU codes. 192hp its plenty for me. I just want to fit in a LSD and keep it forever.
good stuff
Could get the gps then replace it with an aftermarket system for a more modernized infotainment feeling
Boi I actually haven’t seen anyone replace the optional GPS with a different system. If that was possible then yeah that would be awesome. Something like a modern iDrive system.
It's strange but E85 and E89 owners or lovers, seem to be polarised by their individual looks as well.. and I like both..but prefer the the NA sound.. and manual box.
I’d probably love an E89 but it would be for very different reasons than my E85 . The weight and size increase, and lack of an M car for the generation makes them much more GT car than sports car. Beautiful interiors and styling but less focused.
But while it looks far better than almost any roadster on the market in the last ten years, does it compare even closely to a Porsche Boxster S?
Joel Brennan I’d say it compares extremely closely to a Boxster S. The cars have very different characters and represent different drivers though. The M lacks the overall finesse of the Boxster but is more raw and powerful. Personally, I found the excitement provided by the M to be more than worth what it gives up in chassis dynamics.
BuzzytheBlue I'm not in the market for these cars right now but the BMW just seems like a better car. I love the 911 a lot because it's more raw than a Boxster but it just feels to me the Boxster can be boring, especially compared to the BMW. Luckily the roadster version, like your car, hasn't started skyrocketing in value like the coupe so *for now* it's affordable. $25k for that or a new base Cooper S seems like an easy decision...
Joel Brennan I agree.The Boxster is a bit clinical by comparison, lacks character. Whereas the M has it pouring out of every panel. It’s a car you fall in love with. Honestly, I’ve seen comments on this video of owners saying they wouldn’t even trade theirs for a Cayman GT4. Or that their 911 Turbos aren’t getting driven as often as their M. I can’t speak to that but there’s definitely something special about these cars.
You soften an axle to promote more grip
Please gift us another z4 m video. I’m about to buy it and in my waiting i will love to know and look more of yours.
Grazie... ciao dall’Italia (Firenze!)
вижу Z4 - ставлю лайк)
Its a gorgeous car, but the black does not do it justice. A gery with red interior would be a killer!
Thanks! In person this black (Carbon sapphire metallic) has a LOT of depth to it so I don’t think videos do it justice. Agree the red and grey would be another great combo.
Actually its rumoured they had their eye on the 911 of similar period...
It is so weird that Z4M didn't had standart side sport skirts. You have to oder it...
Interesting, I didn’t know that. Was it part of a package you had to option?
Option. This part number: 51710150780
In pictures no big difference, but in real life much better. I had it on my z4.
Standart looks a little plain.
What exhaust do you have on that Z4M?! Cant be stock can it?
At the time of this video the car just had an RPI axle back exhaust. Car now has catless headers and an Evolve Carbon airbox. Videos up of the car with those as well.
I seen a 3.0 for sale and was looking for an opinion mod wise and reliability wise ?
steve 26171 The 3.0 is a great motor, plenty of power for this car and quite reliable but modding wise there isn’t much. To make any substantial gains with it you’d be doing a supercharger, which would be too expensive on that car. If you test drive it and it isn’t fast enough for you stock, I’d save up for a faster car. Plus you wouldn’t really want to run more power through that cars rear end anyway, as it’s an open diff, unlike the limited slip on the M.
I love mine. I have the n52. u can swap out the intake manifold with the 3 stage intake manifold and a tune and make it have the same power output as an "si"
Not quite that simple, the n52 doesn't have a conventional throttle body but instead uses Valvetronic which alters valve lift to control throttle. The earlier M54 is normal throttle body.
SpunkyZ3 I’m sure it’s not as simple as it sounds but it has been done.
I've owned a 2008 roadster from one year old and it's a great little package. Yes I have the sat nav as it was an expensive extra, not great but keeps the car top spec. Also got the rear sensors but couldn't get the folding mirrors as I wanted the interlegaros blue. I have very low mileage and always garaged, used as a third car. Very unnoticed, which is good in London. Can't see me selling it now as they've hit the bottom and can only go up as they are a good old fashioned powerful uncomplicated roadster, With a Gear Stick!!.Never seen those bonnet louver's though.
Really under appreciated cars, like you said they will only be going up in value from here. The hood vents are custom from TrackSpec Motorsports.
I need an s54 in my life
Cowl shake in corner bumps or suspension issues ?
Fiveoh Four Not cowl shake whatsoever. It’s an issue with the way the stock suspension is set up. The roadster is actually more rigid than the E46 M3 coupe, so that’s a non issue.
BuzzytheBlue yea I knew that but sometimes you’ll get that flex regardless even if to a much lesser degree. Anyway interesting so is it understeer maybe? Does liberal application of the throttle correct it? Or it’s not turn in related or traction related but still a suspension thing? Anyhow sorry not trying to interrogate you just curious what exactly it feels like
Fiveoh Four No worries, this is the kind of discussion I hoped these videos would facilitate. To describe it better, mid corner bumps at high speed unsettle the car somewhat, they don’t induce over or understeer (so not traction related) but it does seem to “jump” for lack of a better word. The rear of the car specifically, seems incapable of adjusting quickly enough to mid corner bumps. I think a firmer rear setup would solve it.
BuzzytheBlue adjusting fast enough as in rebound/compression then as opposed to getting unsettled and not recovering like you’re dragging the back end around and it’s not following the lines around the track/road it otherwise would? The former really reminds me most of driving a mustang with a solid rear axel and how they hop based on your description. I wonder if your suspension is out of spec somehow or it’s just a trait of that suspension, if you have a Matt Farah type of friend or a mechanic friend you trust it may be worth getting their opinion after taking it for a drive. Also, not that you haven’t already thought of all of this, but the forums are a pretty great resource for info and feedback for this sort of thing, you just have to be careful of the bloated ego back seat pro’s that Think know everything but that’s usually pretty easy.
How many Z4`s were produced?
Quite a few Non-M Z4’s were sold. However, at least in North America the number of Z4Ms is very low. Believe the number is around 1800 coupes and 3000 roadster during their 2006-2008 run.
@@BuzzytheBlue was asking worldwide
www.carsaddiction.com/en/productiontotal/bmw/Z4M
Credit to carsaddiction. Great data. e.g. my Interlagos Blue coupe, RHD, extended black leather, 1 of 29 produced.
Am I crazy or did you modify/replace your hood?
Fiveoh Four lol you aren’t seeing things. It is the stock hood modified with TrackSpec Motorsports heat extractors. Reduces engine bay temp and front end lift. There are also plans to supercharge this car, so the reduction in temps is even more important.
BuzzytheBlue what kind of supercharger? Made for the z4m or can you use ones for other S54 equipped cars? Do you need to do any supporting mods to handle boost we’ll/reinforced internals?
I get the instinct to go with supercharging since you kind of get to keep the original linear nature of the power band, but for that exact reason a turbo set up would probably be epic just to kind of give the ability to have two polar opposite experiences. Lastly, what are you expecting to invest all in for the supercharger setup?
Oh also, do you know if there’s options out there for more aggressive gearing? I know for the Z3m for instance they used really long gearing to somewhat artificially limit the cars performance and not eat all the M3’s lunch but this was rectified in the after market and maybe even with OEM euro gearing, not entirely sure though as it’s been a long time
Fiveoh Four Great questions. I’m planning to go with an ESS super charger kit, the Vt2-520, it’s the exact same kit that is made for the E46 M3, just different mounting brackets to reflect the different engine bay. As far as supporting mods go, nothing is “required” but rod bearing wear will certainly be accelerated somewhat, so I have future plans to replace them. At the same time,I will likely up-rate the pistons and connecting rods, with the hope of pushing the power even further. All said and done, VT2 kit and built internals is likely $15,000 worth of parts and labor. The kit alone is $8,000.
Fiveoh Four To answer your gearing question, stock gearing is actually quite short at 3.62. However, given the high revving nature of the S54, 3.90 or 4.10 gearsets are pretty common in the aftermarket. It is supposed to be an excellent mod. However, I likely won’t be doing it, as, with the supercharger, traction in the first three gears would be dangerously low.
Do you still have this car ?
Yep! Just had to rod bearings done preventatively. Will have videos coming as we head into spring/summer.
Where can I get that hood or heat extractor?
Trackspec Motorsports Heat extractors fitted to the stock hood. Had a body shop install them.
How did the hood vents get there?
SeerTrulth They’re TrackSpec Motorsports vents, had a body shop install them professionally. Came with templates and instructions for them.
In NO way trying to be controversial, I ask if they are functional in any way?
SeerTrulth Not controversial at all, I wouldn’t have done them if they weren’t at least somewhat functional. Heat management when driving hard is one aspect and then also reduction of lift. Which I’ve noticed on the street even. Air coming into the engine bay normally doesn’t have anywhere to go, and hits the underside of the hood, producing lift. This gives that air an escape route, more stable front end.
BMW’s 4th take, including the Z1 and the 507
Fiveoh Four Nice catch, I meant to say “BMW M’s second take-“ but figured it wasn’t worth another run through of that line. You and one other person have made me think otherwise lol!
Wait you’re the same guy from before, we’ve had this discussion already haha.
BuzzytheBlue lmao I’m dead sorry, I replied at the beginning before I was positive I’d seen it before. Doing my quarterly z4m porn search
Fiveoh Four No worries man, I could’ve sworn your name looked familiar lmao. Just glad my vid comes up in your searches haha.
BuzzytheBlue lol yep my bad, I actually looked for that comment but didn’t look hard enough clearly. I really wish I’d have been able to afford the z3 m coupe before they went sky high in price wise, I think it I got the z4 I’d have to supercharge it eventually, I kind of wish they’d have made the s54 an aluminum block as the final iteration to send it off in glory in the z4m & to help counteract some of the additional bloat/weight that was gained going from z3 to z4
How much does it cost
Rayan Al-qahtani A Z4M? Depends on the market, miles, year, and body style. I’d say a nice, low mile roadster is $18-23,000 and a coupe $22-30,000.
Second take on a 2 seat roadster? UMM 507 roadster anyone? One of the sexiest cars ever, and the Z1, with doors that opened down into the body cavity instead of out? RESPECT YOUR ELDERS AND GET OFF MY LAWN :P
Fiveoh Four Knew someone would point that out haha. Meant so say “BMW M’s second take on a two seat roadster.” I know there are other, non Ms before the Z3. Just goes to show I should’ve done another take after all!
BuzzytheBlue nah probably not remotely worth another take just to correct a single mistake/prevent comments like mine, especially when considering it’s TH-cam you could create an objectively perfect video, if such a thing was possible, and you’d still get a bunch of childish BS hate comments sprinkled into the comments section