[RavenGX]

Originally Posted by DPelletier

The standard 455 in the 1970 442 was rated at 365hp; the W-30 had special heads, camshaft, unique aluminum intake, carb, tranny, etc. and was rated at 370hp which was clearly underrated. Actual gross crank hp was around 420hp. Also came with the W25 fiberglass hood, red inner fenders and reduced body sound deadening for less weight.

Of the approximately 23,000 442's built in 1970, 3100 were W30's.



I don't have any pics of mine on this computer but it's identical to this one, color, stripes, rims, etc. except I had Goodyear tires on mine.

I Love that color, it would look nice on the Z4 too, especially with the bronze trim on the 40i (sorry for going even more off topic)

[StanDiego]

Originally Posted by BEAR-AvHistory

A logical test would be how many M40i buyers now wished they bought a 3.0 instead.

... or vice versa

[LoneStar]

Originally Posted by StanDiego

... or vice versa

do you?

[StanDiego]

Originally Posted by LoneStar

do you?

Admittedly, if I could have bought an M40i for perhaps a $4K premium over the s30i, I'd have been very tempted. I'd have even tried to rationalize the added cost, and I've gotten pretty good at rationalizing (lying to myself) about luxuries.

I've priced both models out comparably equipped, resulting in a $12K difference. It wasn't that I couldn't afford it (I paid cash for my s30i). I just couldn't rationalize a $12K premium for the M40i when I truly love nearly everything about my s30i including it's performance.

I'm new to the BMW world so perhaps I don't hold the same reverence to the "M" as others do. My only disappointment is the lack of a HUD, available only with M40i for '22 models due to supply chain restraints. With availability of the HUD in '23 s30i models, my only regret is not waiting a few months to order a '23 s30i.

However, even if $12K had magically appeared at my front door to cover the difference, I'd have bought a s30i and invested the $12K elsewhere. The s30i is NOT the best Z4 but it's by far the best bang for the buck Z4, at least 95% of the pleasure for 80% of the cost. Full disclosure: in an earlier phase of my life, I very well may have chosen an M40i but I'm happy to have grown past that phase.

To those of you with an M40i, I salute you and have rare moments of envy toward you but I guarantee you do not have more fun with yours than I have with mine. FWIW, I'm genuinely happy both models are available because the availability of both models has helped to sustain production. There's a market for both.

[LoneStar]

12k is a lot, currently I would have to pay just 6k more for the M40i equally equipped.

Fun with the M40i depends on the driving profile and for me it is more suburban driving in the mountain area with winding roads. The M40i can do this well, but for me just too good, it feels too solid and settled with filtered feedback. Performancewise it is a dream, but I see the advantage more on the highway and crusing than on my ususual roads. So less weight, smaller tyres and maybe even the m sports suspension rather than the adaptive one would be the better options for this purpose.

I wouldn’t order anything than the rear view camera and the mirror package, less is more in this case, I never use HUD, adaptive cruise control or such stuff in a sports car, neither in our family sedan.

Even harman kardon is not worth the extra money in the Z4 in my opinion, it just sounds artifical.

I try now the small and heavy canon ball called M240i convertible (1750kg real weight), not in any means comparable to the Z4, but in its way it‘s fun to drive and the steering is just gorgeous.

Maybe next year or so I‘ll go for the 30i, because of lower weight and better handling - let‘s give it a try

[StanDiego]

Originally Posted by LoneStar

Maybe next year or so I‘ll go for the 30i, because of lower weight and better handling - let‘s give it a try

As you've suggested, it's a very subjective decision. My previous 4 "fun cars" have been 2.0L convertibles (and the Z4 s30i blows them away) so I'm probably biased toward the s30i but, for a sports car, the s30i is my ultimate driving machine. Best of luck to you.

[WillC94]

I’ve test driven both and even as someone who’s never owned anything more exciting than a newish Accord, there was just something special about the M40i that took my breath away. Even though it’s probably more than we should spend, I’ll be putting in an order for one soon and seriously doubt I’ll have any regrets. I walked away from a very low mileage CPO 30i earlier this year that had all the options we wanted, even the HUD and almost the ideal color and don’t regret that for a second, even if it was probably the smart choice.

[Flying Clog]

Originally Posted by LoneStar

M40i is only 10% more than the 30i here. It's not the money. Fuel economy of the M40i is really decent, just 10% more or so.

That is the right question: how many M40i owners wishes a 30i? Not too much I would say.

The 4-zylinder is our mid term future here in Germany, as long as our green party urges us to go by bus or on horsebacks very soon;-)

From 2035 combustion engines will be be banned and in their dreams all these petrol and diesel cars should be banned right now, I am not kidding

BTW 4-Zylinder: take a look at the brand new AMG C63, a real funny thing:-)

Good thread this as I'm looking at going from the sDrive 3.0 to M4.0 mostly because of the reasons Lonestar points out.

Here in Europe all new cars sold will have to be without combustion engines from 2035, and the lobbyists if they had their way would ban them now. So who knows how much longer a v6 will be available and affordable.

So I'm looking at moving to the M4.0. My issue is that my sDrive is really nicely specc'd and I cannot find a used car with the same level of options - so need to figure out for myself what to compromise on !

First world problems . . . .

[LoneStar]

Originally Posted by WillC94

I’ve test driven both and even as someone who’s never owned anything more exciting than a newish Accord, there was just something special about the M40i that took my breath away. Even though it’s probably more than we should spend, I’ll be putting in an order for one soon and seriously doubt I’ll have any regrets. I walked away from a very low mileage CPO 30i earlier this year that had all the options we wanted, even the HUD and almost the ideal color and don’t regret that for a second, even if it was probably the smart choice.

It's the sound while starting and the strong base torque which impresses, absolutely. 2.0l turbos need to take breath and drive differently and I only like small engines in light cars.

I once tested a 530i xDrive sedan - not much fun at all to be honest.

[Westside Guy]

Originally Posted by WillC94

there was just something special about the M40i that took my breath away. Even though it’s probably more than we should spend, I’ll be putting in an order for one soon and seriously doubt I’ll have any regrets.

When I put my M40i in Sport Plus mode I get goose bumps.

When I floor it my wife screams at me because she says she can't breath.

Looking at it always puts a big smile on my face!

[BMWGirlFL]

Probably extreme examples due to unusual market circumstances but future residual should minimize the upcharge to buy.

[Westside Guy]

Originally Posted by BMWGirlFL

Probably extreme examples due to unusual market circumstances but future residual should minimize the upcharge to buy.

Attachment 3028868

Attachment 3028869

I would like to compare numbers to some lower mileage vehicles which should be selling at higher prices.

[blue135]

Know everyone of those used cars. Been looking at Z4s for a month. Driven a nearly new. 3.0, but cannot find a M4.0. Loved the 3.0 handling and it had good power, but just feel like the power of the M4.0 would be more fun for me.
But back to priorities, just decided that I will stick with my 135i with 6mt and 400hp. Gonna put money into furnishing my son's new house. (And I do not want to borrow money to buy the Z4.)
Like was said, each of us has our own priorities. Still love the looks and feel of the Z4, though.

[LoneStar]

easiest way would be canceling the R6 by BMW

Decision gets simple

[DPelletier]

Originally Posted by StanDiego

As you've suggested, it's a very subjective decision. My previous 4 "fun cars" have been 2.0L convertibles (and the Z4 s30i blows them away) so I'm probably biased toward the s30i but, for a sports car, the s30i is my ultimate driving machine. Best of luck to you.

excellent point; depends what you are used to. My M40i was a replacement for my 600hp F type and I've owned a half dozen 400+ hp cars so I knew I wanted the 6cyl from the get-go.

As far as comments about "investing the difference" etc. .....ALL these cars are just toys for the majority of us so the same could be said about owning one at all....


Dave

[LoneStar]

Originally Posted by Westside Guy

I would like to compare numbers to some lower mileage vehicles which should be selling at higher prices.

very high quotes.

in Germany:

- 30i, 10k miles $45-50k
- M40i, 10k miles $53-60k

With savings, I can order a new one in these ranges, but have to wait up to 7 month

[Westside Guy]

Originally Posted by LoneStar

very high quotes.

in Germany:

- 30i, 10k miles $45-50k
- M40i, 10k miles $53-60k

With savings, I can order a new one in these ranges, but have to wait up to 7 month

If you have the time I would definitely by new.

[Living Dead]

In all my years of buying cars I've never regretted getting the one with the bigger engine, I do regret buying my wife the A5 instead of the S5.

[Westside Guy]

Originally Posted by Living Dead

In all my years of buying cars I've never regretted getting the one with the bigger engine, I do regret buying my wife the A5 instead of the S5.

I feel the same way, however I had no regrets selecting a 228i for my wife who drives with a lead foot.

[DPelletier]

My wife drives a 500hp Audi SQ8......but she's scared to give it more than about a quarter throttle! LOL.......oh well, I periodically give it some "exercise". ;-)

Dave

[StanDiego]

Originally Posted by BEAR-AvHistory

A logical test would be how many M40i buyers now wished they bought a 3.0 instead.

I don't believe that's a "logical test", at least not a very sound one, thus my previous suggestion for "vice versa". For nearly any premium purchase, a person has already rationalized spending the extra money and will naturally resist second guessing the decision.

I've never regretted spending more money for the "top dog" product regardless of whether it could be objectively rationalized; things such as computers (faster processor, more memory, larger storage), TVs (screen size, picture and audio quality), house (more square footage, bedrooms, bathrooms), etc.

The same would apply to a Z4 purchase. Had I bought an M40i, I'd continue to rationalize the purchase decision, never allowing myself to wonder if I'd have been happy with a s30i instead. In fact, I would be a strong proponent of the M40i over the s30i. Such is human nature. Of course, my rationalization only applies to me and it would be wrong to believe otherwise, especially with the discretionary purchase of a luxury vehicle. That takes some of the rationalization completely out of the picture.

Despite all that and despite being one of those who have a tendency to rationalize and purchase the "top dog", I believe I made the right decision (for me) with the s30i and am extremely pleased with it.

Disclaimer: Your mileage may vary. Opinion is provided "as is" without any warranties. Above terms subject to change without notice. Action figures sold separately. Batteries not included. Always drive on roads, not on people. Consult your physician if fever persists for more than 3 days of if pain continues for more than 5 days. Any resemblance to actual persons, living or dead, is unintentional and purely coincidental.

[BEAR-AvHistory]

Originally Posted by StanDiego

I don't believe that's a "logical test", at least not a very sound one, thus my previous suggestion for "vice versa". For nearly any premium purchase, a person has already rationalized spending the extra money and will naturally resist second guessing the decision.

I've never regretted spending more money for the "top dog" product regardless of whether it could be objectively rationalized; things such as computers (faster processor, more memory, larger storage), TVs (screen size, picture and audio quality), house (more square footage, bedrooms, bathrooms), etc.

The same would apply to a Z4 purchase. Had I bought an M40i, I'd continue to rationalize the purchase decision, never allowing myself to wonder if I'd have been happy with a s30i instead. In fact, I would be a strong proponent of the M40i over the s30i. Such is human nature. Of course, my rationalization only applies to me and it would be wrong to believe otherwise, especially with the discretionary purchase of a luxury vehicle. That takes some of the rationalization completely out of the picture.

Despite all that and despite being one of those who have a tendency to rationalize and purchase the "top dog", I believe I made the right decision (for me) with the s30i and am extremely pleased with it.

Disclaimer: Your mileage may vary. Opinion is provided "as is" without any warranties. Above terms subject to change without notice. Action figures sold separately. Batteries not included. Always drive on roads, not on people. Consult your physician if fever persists for more than 3 days of if pain continues for more than 5 days. Any resemblance to actual persons, living or dead, is unintentional and purely coincidental.

Guess I don't see buying the Z4 as a "rational" decision in the first place. A 2 seat car is want not a need.

Its a toy, a fun car whatever, but trying to rationalize the purchase of a $50,000/$70,000 Z4 is an exercise in futility, AKA tickling yourself.

No different then a kid in a candy store spending his milk money on some M&M's instead of in the cafeteria on a container of milk. The want has already overwhelmed the need. No rationalization required.

You can set a buying limit on what you can afford, but thats just a budget constraint, you already left rational land when you left the Sedan/SUV out of the mix.