BMW's new Z4 M Roadster

BMW will redefine the benchmark for two-seater soft-top sportscars when the much-anticipated Z4 M Roadster arrives early next year. The M version of the Z4 will use the 3.2-litre straight-six powerhouse previously seen in the E46 BMW M3 Coupé and Convertible. Voted the World’s Best Engine in its class five years in a row at the international “Engine Oscars”, the 252 kW and 365 Nm straight-six M3 engine rockets the two-seater Z4 M Roadster to 100 km/h in just 5.0 seconds, and on to an electronically limited top speed of 250 km/h. Due to bow in at the Detroit Motor Show next January 2006, the ultra-sports version of the BMW Z4 Roadster has been long-awaited by keen open-top drivers. The Z4 M Roadster follows in the wheel tracks of the 1997 BMW Z3 M Roadster which became a sportting enthusiasts favourite for its dynamic performance, agility, and sportiness.

The BMW Z4 M Roadster will sit alongside a revised Z4 Roadster range featuring new 2.5si and 3.0si models producing 160 kW and 195 kW respectively.

More than any other sports car in the world, the BMW Z4 typifies the ideal Roadster.

With its long bonnet, set-back cabin and longitudinally mounted straight-six engine driving the rear wheels, the BMW Z4 Roadster provides a dynamic driving experience to thrill purist sportscar drivers.

The Z4 M Roadster boasts an outstanding high-revving power unit that generates enormous thrust and performance in all speed ranges. The six-cylinder, 3,246 cc, motor develops 252 kW at 7,900 rpm and 365 Nm of torque at 4,900 rpm, and revs as high as 8,000 rpm. The engine produces 78.75 kW/litre (106 bhp/litre) giving the Z4 M Roadster a power-to-weight ratio of 5.6 kg/kW.

The Z4 M Roadster accelerates to 100 km/h from rest in 5.0 seconds and also rushes from 80-120 km/h in 5.0 seconds in fourth gear thanks to its amazing torque.

Fitted with a sports six-speed manual transmission, short throw shifter and M final drive, the Z4 M Roadster delivers fast, crisp acceleration in every gear.

The speed-sensitive variable M differential lock, borrowed from the M3 Coupé, delivers superior driving stability and optimum traction especially when accelerating out of corners.

Stopping the Z4 M Roadster in its tracks is the motorsport-developed BMW M floating compound high-performance brake system as seen in the BMW M3 CSL. The Z4 M Roadster stops in just 34 metres from a speed of 100 km/h.

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