[BEAR-AvHistory]

Originally Posted by Bimmerfun82

Interesting review.

One thing I’d say is if you take the M40i and mod the suspension like I did, to me it’s worth the $75k price tag. The only other convertible option in the BMW lineup is the M4 comp X drive which is a huge sacrifice for driving dynamics and costs upward of $100k. (EDIT: and the 440i!, of course)

https://youtu.be/nBEQDug_Lh8?si=-M3WnDeTF8OmTZJo

Based on what? Pretty sure the M4C will out drag & run better track times than the Z4 M40i.

As for $100K mine was $93K very well equipped.

[Bimmerfun82]

Originally Posted by BEAR-AvHistory

Based on what? Pretty sure the M4C will out drag & run better track times than the Z4 M40i.

As for $100K mine was $93K very well equipped.

Driving dynamics. Weight mainly. And longer wheelbase. And convertible for a large car means certainly a compromise to driving dynamics. I didn’t enjoy my m3 comp x drive nearly as much. Agree it was much faster, but not as fun. As for price factor in taxes and you’re near $100k. The m4 conv here starts at $95k incl delivery. You’re referring to the coupe? I was speaking to the convertible.

[BEAR-AvHistory]

Originally Posted by Bimmerfun82

Driving dynamics. Weight mainly. And longer wheelbase. And convertible for a large car means certainly a compromise to driving dynamics. I didn’t enjoy my m3 comp x drive nearly as much. Agree it was much faster, but not as fun. As for price factor in taxes and you’re near $100k. The m4 conv here starts at $95k incl delivery. You’re referring to the coupe? I was speaking to the convertible.

Mine is a Convertible. Tax was $1500. Pretty much anything with a roof that folds down is fun for me.


The writer at Machines with Soles wrote "THE 2022 BMW G83 M4 CONVERTIBLE IS THE BEST VERSION OF THE G8X." He expected to raise a lot of people's blood pressure. But his narrative is pretty good when it comes to fun driving.



Thing is my Z4 M40i has no capability to keep up with the M4C's driving dynamics. I define driving dynamics as expressed in actual functionality. Convert is a little slower than the Coupe in some areas, 300lbs weight penalty, but its a matter of 10ths

If driving dynamics is defined some other way I would put the Miata Club up as a very good example of a production car that is a great fun ride.

C/D TEST RESULTS
2022 BMW M4 Competition xDrive
60 mph: 2.8 sec
100 mph: 6.9 sec
1/4-Mile: 11.0 sec @ 125 mph
130 mph: 12.0 sec
150 mph: 17.4 sec
170 mph: 26.4 sec

Top Speed (mfr's claim): 180 mph
Braking, 70–0 mph: 150 ft
Braking, 100–0 mph: 302 ft
Roadholding, 300-ft Skidpad: 1.02 g

Official Nürburgring Nordschleife lap time
BMW M4 Competition M xDrive 2021
Driver: Christian Gebhardt
7:28.57 minutes


C/D TEST RESULTS
2023 BMW Z4 M40i
60 mph: 3.5 sec
100 mph: 8.8 sec
1/4-Mile: 12.0 sec @ 116 mph
130 mph: 15.4 sec
150 mph: 22.4 sec

Top Speed (gov ltd): 152 mph
Braking, 70–0 mph: 149 ft
Braking, 100–0 mph: 299 ft
Roadholding, 300-ft Skidpad: 1.00 g

Official Nürburgring Nordschleife lap time
Driver:Christian Gebhardt
7:55.41 minutes.

[Bimmerfun82]

Can’t argue with the performance stats. I like the Z better for its lighter weight and less insane acceleration. The M3 was impressive. A total beast. But the Z typifies the adage “would rather drive a slower car fast.” The weakness for the Z is body roll and ride height, so I addressed those issues with springs. It’s a car that puts a smile on my face and handles s curves like a lightweight sports car as opposed to an AWD powerhouse. The G8x is a 2 plus 2 and Z is a roadster. My initial comment was not meant to pit the two cars against each other, but to come at the angle of rebutting the price-is-too-high critique, but I guess I did take a dig with the phrasing huge sacrifice for driving dynamics. Too strong of a statement. The cars are both great and serve different purposes. I saved over $20k and 360kg (3500 v 4300 lbs) v the m4 and prefer the roadster.

[Westside Guy]

Originally Posted by PSQ777

Their review was fair. BMW didn't market this car. And for those of us who got it this has been a boon (rareity, future value). My M40i was in for a service last week. My service partner drove it out for my collection and I suspect she had never been in one before. "Wow, that's a nice car !" :-)

Thank you for saying this, I have been complaining for the longest time that BMW does not market this car in any of their advertisements, whether they be online, print or on TV.

I have seen campaigns from Mercedes where they have shown all of their different convertible models in one advertisement and BMW could’ve done the same with the 4, 8 and Z4 ragtops all together.

[Horseman]

Here’s something to chew on, but I wonder with the numbers they talk about are that because of European spec? 330hp and 0-60 in 4.4 sec?

[stlcdr]

It comes down to ‘what is a convertible’? For me, just not having a roof portion isn’t really a convertible: the corvette ‘convertible’ falls into this category. YMMV.

Also, for example, the previous Z with a hard top convertible. Technically it is a convertible, and looks it with the roof down. The Ferrari Portofino falls into this category, too. But I think the Portofino looks good in both configurations: the convertible look down, and a fastback up.

For me, the Z4, much like the Porsche is a classic 2 seater rag-top convertible. Similar to the Miata at one end of the scale, and the new SL (technically a 2+2, probably in the category of the Mustang convertible), and up to the 4 seater (or is it classed as a 2+2?) M4 convertible.

They all have a classic roadster/GT convertible look. While there’s a limited selection (and the market is small) there is something for almost every pocket.

Base Miata, loaded Miata, Z4 20/30, Z4 40, Porsche (various levels), Mercedes SL, Ferrari.

I find, ironically, that people who buy convertibles tend to dismiss the higher priced counterparts, more than look down on those ‘lesser’ cars down the price range.

Indeed, if I’m in the Z4 I’ll wave at any convertible with the top down - we are a dying breed

[Bimmerfun82]

Originally Posted by stlcdr

It comes down to ‘what is a convertible’? For me, just not having a roof portion isn’t really a convertible: the corvette ‘convertible’ falls into this category. YMMV.

Also, for example, the previous Z with a hard top convertible. Technically it is a convertible, and looks it with the roof down. The Ferrari Portofino falls into this category, too. But I think the Portofino looks good in both configurations: the convertible look down, and a fastback up.

For me, the Z4, much like the Porsche is a classic 2 seater rag-top convertible. Similar to the Miata at one end of the scale, and the new SL (technically a 2+2, probably in the category of the Mustang convertible), and up to the 4 seater (or is it classed as a 2+2?) M4 convertible.

They all have a classic roadster/GT convertible look. While there’s a limited selection (and the market is small) there is something for almost every pocket.

Base Miata, loaded Miata, Z4 20/30, Z4 40, Porsche (various levels), Mercedes SL, Ferrari.

I find, ironically, that people who buy convertibles tend to dismiss the higher priced counterparts, more than look down on those ‘lesser’ cars down the price range.

Indeed, if I’m in the Z4 I’ll wave at any convertible with the top down - we are a dying breed

It would help to insert the “roadster” into the mix, which differentiates 2+2 convertibles from smaller 2 seater roadsters. I still think the older hard top Z’s are roadsters. The hard top added some stiffness with the top up and better handling with the top down, but also a big weight penalty. Any 4 seater is a convertible or cabriolet if the top disappears. Corvette T tops and the 911 targa aren’t convertibles.

[BEAR-AvHistory]

Originally Posted by Bimmerfun82

It would help to insert the “roadster” into the mix, which differentiates 2+2 convertibles from smaller 2 seater roadsters. I still think the older hard top Z’s are roadsters. The hard top added some stiffness with the top up and better handling with the top down, but also a big weight penalty. Any 4 seater is a convertible or cabriolet if the top disappears. Corvette T tops and the 911 targa aren’t convertibles.

Not a criticism but just something I read in a Road Test thats interesting but can't prove if its correct or not. Just thought it might explain the closeness of the weight Coupe vs Convertible.

An M4 Competition Coupe with xDrive comes in at around 4,000 pounds. So here, cutting off the top really only costs you 300 pounds.

Get under the car and you’ll see why. The chassis construction was always designed not only for xDrive, but with the knowledge that a convertible will be a part of the lineup. The Coups carry around the room for all the xDrive components with none of the benefits. And what a platform it is; rock solid. No creaks or rattles.

Have no issues with the M4 being classed a 2+2, think it generally fits especially trying to get in & out with the roof up. Once inside the rear seat people have a surprising amount of room, with the 2 seats compared to the 330's 3 seats

My personal specs of recent cars I have owned is 718 Boxster S Sports car, Z4 M40i GT car, M4C Convertible 2+2 sounds good.

Not trying to cast shade on the Z4, bought out its lease a few months back for $42K. The car is a keeper for me. Just trying to get opinions on the various cars we all own.

Generally opinions are formed by past experience & mine has always shared power cars & light sports cars. Back in the day was not unusual for a pure USA muscle car to share garage space with a British Sports car.

[Bimmerfun82]

Yeah, 4300 lbs is a heavy car. I’ve watched videos of the M4 convertible, and reviewers rave about it in spite of the heft.

It depends how you enjoy driving - if you’re commuting and enjoying some brisk drives occasionally, it’s great. But if you like canyon carving, the Z is more satisfying to me.

[Pprior]

I’d really love to have a restored old triumph or MG or other old British roadster. The small roadster convertible is just a special thing. It scratches an itch that bigger (even faster) cars can’t. Will be a very sad day if there are no more being made.

[stlcdr]

Originally Posted by Pprior

I’d really love to have a restored old triumph or MG or other old British roadster. The small roadster convertible is just a special thing. It scratches an itch that bigger (even faster) cars can’t. Will be a very sad day if there are no more being made.

Might be your lucky day? https://bringatrailer.com/listing/19...h-spitfire-27/

I had a Spitfire as my second car, many, many moons ago. Loved it! Looks like the one above is is pretty good nick, assuming there isn’t Bondo hiding under that paint. Has the ‘5 speed’ overdrive, too. Boring color, but a good price to tinker with (not sure how high they go).

There is a yellow one in Florida, also.

[Mr. Bill]

I had the Boxster S (981) with the naturally aspirated 6. The car was gorgeous and handling was fantastic, but the lack of torque meant you had to flog the crap out of it to get any type of performance. That’s fine on a track but not very practical for a daily driver. I can’t say that I miss it. I know I’d love the M40i b/c of the torquey engine. I’ve come close to buying one twice now. I’m also shopping the C8, coupe and convertible. I’m not so fond of the back. The Z just looks beautiful to my eye.

[Westside Guy]

Originally Posted by Mr. Bill

I had the Boxster S (981) with the naturally aspirated 6. The car was gorgeous and handling was fantastic, but the lack of torque meant you had to flog the crap out of it to get any type of performance. That’s fine on a track but not very practical for a daily driver. I can’t say that I miss it. I know I’d love the M40i b/c of the torquey engine. I’ve come close to buying one twice now. I’m also shopping the C8, coupe and convertible. I’m not so fond of the back. The Z just looks beautiful to my eye.

So buy one already!

[Horseman]

Originally Posted by Mr. Bill

I had the Boxster S (981) with the naturally aspirated 6. The car was gorgeous and handling was fantastic, but the lack of torque meant you had to flog the crap out of it to get any type of performance. That’s fine on a track but not very practical for a daily driver. I can’t say that I miss it. I know I’d love the M40i b/c of the torquey engine. I’ve come close to buying one twice now. I’m also shopping the C8, coupe and convertible. I’m not so fond of the back. The Z just looks beautiful to my eye.

Sounds to me like it's about that time. Hang around long enough and you can see some photos and videos of deliveries and such. I put out a 1 year daily driver "review" and walk around last year. Video is doing well (especially for me).

[Bimmerfun82]

Originally Posted by Westside Guy

So buy one already!

Second this motion.

[FrostyWinters]

Hi all. Lurker here for a couple of months, first post. Waiting for the rumored manual Z4 to materialize for US and have a deposit on that.

TheTopher posted a Z4 M40i review a day after SG did. Haven’t seen the link posted yet. Here it is:

[Horseman]

I noticed that he took out the wind deflector for the video and the wind noise is very noticeable. Great video though. I will be doing a similar video to show my transition to the M40i.

[BEAR-AvHistory]

Originally Posted by Mr. Bill

I had the Boxster S (981) with the naturally aspirated 6. The car was gorgeous and handling was fantastic, but the lack of torque meant you had to flog the crap out of it to get any type of performance. That’s fine on a track but not very practical for a daily driver. I can’t say that I miss it. I know I’d love the M40i b/c of the torquey engine. I’ve come close to buying one twice now. I’m also shopping the C8, coupe and convertible. I’m not so fond of the back. The Z just looks beautiful to my eye.

Agree, 100%



Youngest daughter has it now.

[BEAR-AvHistory]

Originally Posted by Pprior

I’d really love to have a restored old triumph or MG or other old British roadster. The small roadster convertible is just a special thing. It scratches an itch that bigger (even faster) cars can’t. Will be a very sad day if there are no more being made.

Old saying:

Why don't the British make TV sets? Answer: They can't figure out how to make them leak oil.

That said I think if it was not for the British there would never have been sports cars in the USA. GI's shipping MG's home from the UK after WWII got the ball rolling. It was a good ride while it lasted.

I did Triumphs & Morgans best man at my wedding did Austin - Healey 3000's

[Mr. Bill]

Originally Posted by Westside Guy

So buy one already!

I was all ready to buy gkgeiger’s as it was spec’d exactly the way I wanted. As I was going to bed, i told my wife that the deal was just too good to pass up but when I checked on it the next morning, I saw it was sold. Too slow at the draw. But absent the grim reaper being on the back swing, I believe I still have time to savor the shopping experience. I also have the C8, M4, RS5 and X3 M40i on my list. Who knows?

[dholaday]

Originally Posted by Bimmerfun82

Interesting review.

One thing I’d say is if you take the M40i and mod the suspension like I did, to me it’s worth the $75k price tag. The only other convertible option in the BMW lineup is the M4 comp X drive which is a huge sacrifice for driving dynamics and costs upward of $100k. (EDIT: and the 440i!, of course)

https://youtu.be/nBEQDug_Lh8?si=-M3WnDeTF8OmTZJo

And the 8 convertibles: 840S, 840X, and M8