...and the Z4 is awesome:buttrock Got to drive it for a few autocross laps, then the Audi TT 225, the Z4, MB SLK 320, Z4, then Porsche Boxster. And the Z4 is SOOO much better than all of those cars. So well balanced, and the rear isn't quite as squirrely (is that a word?) And for those who haven't seen it, the pictured don't do it any justice, it it a beautiful car, and looks so aggressive just standing still. All of you Z guys need to go to your local dealership and drive one (if they have a demo that's not sold) Sorry, I didn't take any pictures, my higher-ups told me that would be frowned upon:bawl

I will have to check out my local dealership. Thanks for sharing.

Can't wait for my turn!

Kinda nice and diplomatic that they did't have you run against a Z3...

Glad to hear it all!

This is consistent with everything I've read. You have to see this car in person to really appreciate it. The comments on the handling are right on, although one European car mag questioned the steering and said it was "dim witted." I do wish we'd get some ride and drive reports from non-Porsche mags or BMW employees. LOL...I'll be test driving the one I ordered in about two to three weeks.

what color? :)

Man, I'll be blunt, every picture I've seen, the car looks like ass... The lines look like the designers decided a couple hits of Crack cocaine would help their creativity process...

Anyway, I'm still open to them, but right now, I'm leaning toward the "Not another 745 rear end!" side of things...

i HATED the new 7 pre-release mag pics...i LOVE it in person...

i learned my lesson and will reserve judgement on the z4 till i see one...

interesting to hear the reports..thanks for sharing...although i think were going to end up wanting two different areas for z3 and z4 eventually on the board

I saw 3 Z4's yesterday around Santa Monica, looks very nice, I think they were test cars. All metallic grey.

Originally posted by Rachel
what color? :)
The 2.5 manuals were jet black, and the 3.0 autos were steel gray

Originally posted by Z4Me
I do wish we'd get some ride and drive reports from non-Porsche mags or BMW employees.
Trust me, I (try to) have my own opinion, and BMW doesn't (completely) brainwash me (all of the time).:D

How do you get to test drive one? Are they at your local dealer?

stjobs

So far, the drives have been only for BMW dealers for marketing training and education. As I understand it, dealerships should start getting them in next week (10/20 - 10/26) with sales able to start on 10/26. My order is at 155 right now (finished production), but I expect they'll hold it until the first available transportation after 10/24 or so.

I haven't kept up with the Z4. I understand the engines are the same as the Z3's. The exterior is different, as well as the interior layout. Besides these cosmetic features, anything "new" with the Z4's???:95

Originally posted by stjobs
How do you get to test drive one? Are they at your local dealer?

stjobs
BMW allots each dealership a certain number based on how many they think you'll sell. We are getting 2 demos, one 3.0 auto and one 2.5 manual which are supposed to be used for test drives, although we'll probably sell them if someone wants them. We also get seven to sell to clients in the first run, before they go to Europe, which, if the client gets to early enough, can build to his own specifications. So that was the $49 answer to your $.50 question. Here's the $.50 answer: call your dealer:D

Originally posted by SvenOdin
I haven't kept up with the Z4. I understand the engines are the same as the Z3's. The exterior is different, as well as the interior layout. Besides these cosmetic features, anything "new" with the Z4's???:95
It is a completely different car, this is the reason it's the 2003 Z4, and not the 2003 Z3 (Other than the fact that BMW's coupes have always been even numbers w/the sedans having odd numbers). The rear suspension is updated to the e46's specifications, it has an all new brake system, is something like 50% more rigid than the Z3 convertible, has a six-speed manual for the 3.0 (December), an SMG for the 3.0 (next Spring), a larger trunk, run-flats, a completely power-operated top (no more levers), and probably more stuff I've forgotten...:rolleyes:

Bimmerdawg has it correct. The most serious upgrades are the new suspension, lower center of gravity, structural rigidity, slightly modified wheel base and track and the electrical power steering. On of the benefits of the new steering is the ability to change from normal driving to sport handling which gives a more immediate response to throttle and alters the steering to remove just a bit of the power assist. Of lesser note (but equally important to me) is the glass rear window, increased cabin feel and new styling. I felt that the upgrades for the Z4 answered all of my criticisms of the Z3.

Hmmmmm, sounds like I need to keep telling my wife it's just appearance changes otherwise she'll want to buy one.:eek:

Did you take any pix?

Originally posted by MDriver315
Did you take any pix?
No, as I said above, my higher-ups said it would be frowned upon:bawl

Nice report, thanks! I can't wait to drive one. I bet all my mods would fit on a Z4 3.0.... :D