[Argo]

I'm about to pull the trigger on a 2024 Z4 M40i build and there's three things I want to clarify. It's not like there's a ton of Z4s on dealer lots, so it's not as simple to go check this stuff out. I was hoping this community could help me out. Car is intended to be used as my daily, replacing my current 987.1 Boxster.

Wheels
I'm between these 3:

1. 18" M Double-spoke orbit grey wheels, style 798M with perf non run-flat tires (Front: 18x9.0, 255/40 R18, Rear: 18x10.0, 275/40 R18)
2. 19" M Double-spoke orbit grey wheels, style 799M with perf non run-flat tires (Front: 19x9.0, 255/35 R19, Rear: 19x10.0, 275/35 R19)
3. 19" M Double-spoke cerium grey wheels, style 800M with perf non run-flat tires (Front: 19x9.0, 255/35 R19, Rear: 19x10.0, 275/35 R19)

I'd prefer the 18" because of the thicker sidewall and (presumably) better ride, but slightly prefer the design of both of the 19" options. Has anyone driven both and could compare the ride?

I've seen plenty of photos online of both of the 19" options online and they look significantly better than in the configurator. However I'm struggling to find any photos or videos of the 18" option. Does anyone have a link to these?

Trim
Leaning strongly towards the Aluminum Mesh over the Aluminum Tetragon, however I wanted hear about people's experience with living with it or cleaning it.

Sound
Is there a big difference between the base and HK sound systems? From what I've read online, the HK system is pretty "meh" anyway on the G29 Z4s.

----

Preliminary build: https://www.bmwusa.com/build-your-ow...wbhz68/summary

Thanks in advance.

[RavenGX]

Originally Posted by Argo

I'm about to pull the trigger on a 2024 Z4 M40i build and there's three things I want to clarify. It's not like there's a ton of Z4s on dealer lots, so it's not as simple to go check this stuff out. I was hoping this community could help me out. Car is intended to be used as my daily, replacing my current 987.1 Boxster.

Wheels
I'm between these 3:

1. 18" M Double-spoke orbit grey wheels, style 798M with perf non run-flat tires (Front: 18x9.0, 255/40 R18, Rear: 18x10.0, 275/40 R18)
2. 19" M Double-spoke orbit grey wheels, style 799M with perf non run-flat tires (Front: 19x9.0, 255/35 R19, Rear: 19x10.0, 275/35 R19)
3. 19" M Double-spoke cerium grey wheels, style 800M with perf non run-flat tires (Front: 19x9.0, 255/35 R19, Rear: 19x10.0, 275/35 R19)

I'd prefer the 18" because of the thicker sidewall and (presumably) better ride, but slightly prefer the design of both of the 19" options. Has anyone driven both and could compare the ride?

I've seen plenty of photos online of both of the 19" options online and they look significantly better than in the configurator. However I'm struggling to find any photos or videos of the 18" option. Does anyone have a link to these?

Trim
Leaning strongly towards the Aluminum Mesh over the Aluminum Tetragon, however I wanted hear about people's experience with living with it or cleaning it.

Sound
Is there a big difference between the base and HK sound systems? From what I've read online, the HK system is pretty "meh" anyway on the G29 Z4s.

----

Preliminary build: https://www.bmwusa.com/build-your-ow...wbhz68/summary

Thanks in advance.

sound:
if you want to put in an aftermarket system eventually, it costs about 500$ more for the HK because you need a special conversion cable (unless you plan on cutting the original wires), not needed for the regular system.

I don't know how much difference there is between the regular system and the HK.

[stlcdr]

For a comfort ride, the suspension makes up for the smaller sidewall, imo. If you live in an area where the roads are notoriously bad, then the taller sidewall is probably wise.

Sound, as you note, HK is seen as a bit lacking, but adequate. If you are a stickler for audio, get the base and upgrade (as noted, it’s a bit more money, but you’ll end up with a system closer to your liking). If you aren’t concerned with doing that, just get the HK - it is what it is.

Can’t comment on the trim; I have black (which isn’t as bad as you think, if you add some PPF film over it).

[M4_444]

Originally Posted by Argo

I'm about to pull the trigger on a 2024 Z4 M40i build and there's three things I want to clarify. It's not like there's a ton of Z4s on dealer lots, so it's not as simple to go check this stuff out. I was hoping this community could help me out. Car is intended to be used as my daily, replacing my current 987.1 Boxster.

Wheels
I'm between these 3:

1. 18" M Double-spoke orbit grey wheels, style 798M with perf non run-flat tires (Front: 18x9.0, 255/40 R18, Rear: 18x10.0, 275/40 R18)
2. 19" M Double-spoke orbit grey wheels, style 799M with perf non run-flat tires (Front: 19x9.0, 255/35 R19, Rear: 19x10.0, 275/35 R19)
3. 19" M Double-spoke cerium grey wheels, style 800M with perf non run-flat tires (Front: 19x9.0, 255/35 R19, Rear: 19x10.0, 275/35 R19)

I'd prefer the 18" because of the thicker sidewall and (presumably) better ride, but slightly prefer the design of both of the 19" options. Has anyone driven both and could compare the ride?

I've seen plenty of photos online of both of the 19" options online and they look significantly better than in the configurator. However I'm struggling to find any photos or videos of the 18" option. Does anyone have a link to these?

Trim
Leaning strongly towards the Aluminum Mesh over the Aluminum Tetragon, however I wanted hear about people's experience with living with it or cleaning it.

Sound
Is there a big difference between the base and HK sound systems? From what I've read online, the HK system is pretty "meh" anyway on the G29 Z4s.

----

Preliminary build: https://www.bmwusa.com/build-your-ow...wbhz68/summary

Thanks in advance.

As it relates to the trim, I have seen all 3 in person. Mine has the piano black, but between the mesh and the tetragon, 100% I would choose the mesh over the tetragon. When/if they release a manual 40i, I will absolutely be getting the mesh as my trim choice if at the time those are the 3 available options. Also, hoping they keep the PMB color in rotation. I would likely take that over my current Frozen Grey.

As for the wheels, if sidewall height was of no concern, the 799 wheels are outstanding in person and go oh so well with your linked build. The cerium wheels are also fantastic, but if you go with those, I would pass on the shadowline packages. The cerium trim match with the wheels makes this build pop. Black trim/black wheels. Cerium wheels/cerium trim. You cannot go wrong here.

Let us know what you end up going with!

[Westside Guy]

Originally Posted by stlcdr

Can’t comment on the trim; I have black (which isn’t as bad as you think, if you add some PPF film over it).

I am not fan of the Aluminum Mesh or Aluminum Tetragon trim as in my opinion they don't pop or have the "wow" factor when you look at the interior, especially when the top is down. When I had Xpel PPF put on my car I also had my shop cover the black high gloss trim with PPF. I love the classy look and just keep a microfiber cloth in the glove compartment to occasionally remove dust or fingerprints.

In my opinion, it is easy to keep clean and not an issue. Perhaps Argo should take another look at the cars at his dealership with the black high gloss trim and reconsider.

[Horseman]

Originally Posted by Argo

I'm about to pull the trigger on a 2024 Z4 M40i build and there's three things I want to clarify. It's not like there's a ton of Z4s on dealer lots, so it's not as simple to go check this stuff out. I was hoping this community could help me out. Car is intended to be used as my daily, replacing my current 987.1 Boxster.

Wheels
I'm between these 3:

1. 18" M Double-spoke orbit grey wheels, style 798M with perf non run-flat tires (Front: 18x9.0, 255/40 R18, Rear: 18x10.0, 275/40 R18)
2. 19" M Double-spoke orbit grey wheels, style 799M with perf non run-flat tires (Front: 19x9.0, 255/35 R19, Rear: 19x10.0, 275/35 R19)
3. 19" M Double-spoke cerium grey wheels, style 800M with perf non run-flat tires (Front: 19x9.0, 255/35 R19, Rear: 19x10.0, 275/35 R19)

I'd prefer the 18" because of the thicker sidewall and (presumably) better ride, but slightly prefer the design of both of the 19" options. Has anyone driven both and could compare the ride?

I've seen plenty of photos online of both of the 19" options online and they look significantly better than in the configurator. However I'm struggling to find any photos or videos of the 18" option. Does anyone have a link to these?

Trim
Leaning strongly towards the Aluminum Mesh over the Aluminum Tetragon, however I wanted hear about people's experience with living with it or cleaning it.

Sound
Is there a big difference between the base and HK sound systems? From what I've read online, the HK system is pretty "meh" anyway on the G29 Z4s.

----

Preliminary build: https://www.bmwusa.com/build-your-ow...wbhz68/summary

Thanks in advance.

I prefer the 19" wheels... the flavor of wheel is up to you. It's not uncomfortable or horribly loud, but then again it's also a convertible, I don't think road noise is an issue for you.

Both of my Z4 builds have the aluminium mesh. You don't need to worry about scratches on the piano black that will likely drive you NUTS. The tetragon is cool, but ... imo looks too much like lizard scales. The Aluminum mesh and Tetragon are going to be much easier to keep clean ... but may get a little warmer in the summer months.

As far as the sound... There's quite a bit of discussion about the difference between the stock and the upgraded HK systems. The concensus is that the upgraded HK system sounds good, but perhaps not nearly as good as some would hope. I can attest that the stock system is a damn good system and sounds great. If you're looking to save 875 bucks... I'd say this is a worthy place to do it.

[Westside Guy]

Originally Posted by Argo

I'm about to pull the trigger on a 2024 Z4 M40i build and there's three things I want to clarify. It's not like there's a ton of Z4s on dealer lots, so it's not as simple to go check this stuff out. I was hoping this community could help me out. Car is intended to be used as my daily, replacing my current 987.1 Boxster.

Wheels
I'm between these 3:

1. 18" M Double-spoke orbit grey wheels, style 798M with perf non run-flat tires (Front: 18x9.0, 255/40 R18, Rear: 18x10.0, 275/40 R18)
2. 19" M Double-spoke orbit grey wheels, style 799M with perf non run-flat tires (Front: 19x9.0, 255/35 R19, Rear: 19x10.0, 275/35 R19)
3. 19" M Double-spoke cerium grey wheels, style 800M with perf non run-flat tires (Front: 19x9.0, 255/35 R19, Rear: 19x10.0, 275/35 R19)

I'd prefer the 18" because of the thicker sidewall and (presumably) better ride, but slightly prefer the design of both of the 19" options. Has anyone driven both and could compare the ride?

I've seen plenty of photos online of both of the 19" options online and they look significantly better than in the configurator. However I'm struggling to find any photos or videos of the 18" option. Does anyone have a link to these?

Sound
Is there a big difference between the base and HK sound systems? From what I've read online, the HK system is pretty "meh" anyway on the G29 Z4s.

Thanks in advance.

I personally think that the roads where I live are not wonderful but I don't have any issues with the ride on my 19 inch non runflat tires (Michelin Pilot SS). You should really consider getting them with either style of the Jet Black wheels and the Shadowline package. This black accent to the exterior gives the Z4 a more aggressive look that a hot looking roadster deserves to have!

You haven't mentioned them but the red brake calipers provide a nice contrast to the exterior and pop as opposed to the blue ones that don't make any statement.

Finally, perhaps it isn't the best system in cars being sold by BMW today but I like my HK system. I personally think it is a matter of playing with the settings and selecting the correct music source to achieve the sound that you like.

[perryinva]

The stock system is better than anything you would have had in the Boxster, and the Z4 will be loads quieter with the top up or down too. So in comparison, you will be well pleased with it. As others stated, if you ever plan to have it upgraded, then besides saving the $875 by not getting HK, you also save ~$500 in install cost, so the upgrade cost to you is significantly less. The HK has more power but remember that you have to double power each time to get a noticeable volume increase. An aftermarket system like Audison or such has far more efficient speakers and more power so it is far more noticeable improvement than the HK over the base. If you never plan to consider upgrading, then the HK may be the way to go. I have the base system and it is fine for me for the most part. It is far far better than the uograded system I had in my 996.

I have aluminum mesh and prefer the look of it over piano black, which I have had in other cars. Zero glare if the sun hits it at the wrong angle, and my wife has a bad habit of plopping her handbag down right in the console. Our X3 has some scratches thanks to that. Luckily she will rarely be in the Z4 by herself, (if ever).

If you ever plan on going AS on tires, then the 18” would probably be the way to go. If you live in a hot climate with good roads, go 19”.

[BMWGirlFL]

HK added power is a big difference but I'm partial to base system clarity and very happy with it. Suggest comparing systems in other current models.

[RigaTony1982]

A lot of hate for the Tetragon trim. I had it in my M340i and got a bunch of compliments that it looked cool and really liked it myself. When I ordered my Z4 I got it again

Edit: Westside Guy mentions he doesn't think it stands out with the top down, but I disagree with that.

[Westside Guy]

Originally Posted by RigaTony1982

A lot of hate for the Tetragon trim. I had it in my M340i and got a bunch of compliments that it looked cool and really liked it myself. When I ordered my Z4 I got it again

Edit: Westside Guy mentions he doesn't think it stands out with the top down, but I disagree with that.

With the ivory interior you have to admit that the black high gloss trim gives you more of a contrast than the tetragon trim.

[Horseman]

Certainly a personal preference. i like the dark and very light contrasting colors of the tetragon, but I didn't like the pattern itself. Options I would have preferred would be the black wood look or carbon fiber. Honestly.. no idea why either of those couldn't be viable options for the Z4.

[RigaTony1982]

Originally Posted by Westside Guy

With the ivory interior you have to admit that the black high gloss trim gives you more of a contrast than the tetragonal trim.

Yeah, maybe. But... I hate the high gloss black around the side a/c vents and the portion under the center screen. It's ALWAYS dusty and shows every little smudge. I'm a neat freak, so that's no good

[Westside Guy]

Originally Posted by Horseman

Certainly a personal preference. i like the dark and very light contrasting colors of the tetragon, but I didn't like the pattern itself. Options I would have preferred would be the black wood look or carbon fiber. Honestly.. no idea why either of those couldn't be viable options for the Z4.

Going slightly OT, a carbon fiber trim option (including the steering wheel) would look awesome and I would have paid more to have it as part of my build.

[Westside Guy]

Originally Posted by RigaTony1982

Yeah, maybe. But... I hate the high gloss black around the side a/c vents and the portion under the center screen. It's ALWAYS dusty and shows every little smudge. I'm a neat freak, so that's no good

It only takes me a few seconds to wipe them clean with a microfiber cloth that I always keep handy. As my wife would say, beauty comes with a little effort and a price!

[Horseman]

Originally Posted by Westside Guy

It only takes me a few seconds to wipe them clean with a microfiber cloth that I always keep handy. As my wife would say, beauty comes with a little effort and a price!

True, but I'm always worried that with high gloss black that i'll get spiderweb scratches and I don't want to have to go out of my way to get the XPEL protection film templates put on there. The black looks nice... if it's kept in pristine condition and over time, I don't see that happening. Especially with dust from top down experiences and direct sunlight and heat. Again, personal preference, right? No answer is wrong, but there are motivations to each decision.

Originally Posted by RigaTony1982

Yeah, maybe. But... I hate the high gloss black around the side a/c vents and the portion under the center screen. It's ALWAYS dusty and shows every little smudge. I'm a neat freak, so that's no good

I'm the same way and would replace the entire dash with something else if I could. Again with carbon fiber or that black wood grain look. At least it's not as obvious.

[Westside Guy]

Originally Posted by Horseman

True, but I'm always worried that with high gloss black that i'll get spiderweb scratches and I don't want to have to go out of my way to get the XPEL protection film templates put on there. The black looks nice... if it's kept in pristine condition and over time, I don't see that happening. Especially with dust from top down experiences and direct sunlight and heat. Again, personal preference, right? No answer is wrong, but there are motivations to each decision.



I'm the same way and would replace the entire dash with something else if I could. Again with carbon fiber or that black wood grain look. At least it's not as obvious.

In retrospect, I would like to amend my previous comments about the interior trim selections. If you select the Black leather or the Black Alcantara leather with blue contrast stitching then either of the two aluminum trims would provide you with more of a contrast and look better. However with Magna Red, Cognac or the Ivory leather seats I would still select the black high gloss trim.

[Westside Guy]

Originally Posted by RigaTony1982

A lot of hate for the Tetragon trim. I had it in my M340i and got a bunch of compliments that it looked cool and really liked it myself. When I ordered my Z4 I got it again

Edit: Westside Guy mentions he doesn't think it stands out with the top down, but I disagree with that.

This picture was taken in the indoor garage of my dealer on the day my Z4 arrived. I think that the black high gloss looks great and it pops even more when outdoors in daylight with the top down.

At the end of the day there is no right or wrong as a preference like this is very subjective.

[RigaTony1982]

Originally Posted by Westside Guy

This picture was taken in the indoor garage of my dealer on the day my Z4 arrived. I think that the black high gloss looks great and it pops even more when outdoors in daylight with the top down.

At the end of the day there is no right or wrong as a preference like this is very subjective.

What's more crazy is those are the same seats in the two pictures. Funny how the lighting can make them look so different.

[Westside Guy]

Originally Posted by RigaTony1982

What's more crazy is those are the same seats in the two pictures. Funny how the lighting can make them look so different.

I totally agree, I think that the color of this shot which was taken in bright sunlight is more accurate when you can compare the color of the seats to the white boat in the background.

[BEAR-AvHistory]

Not too critical of the radio. Have the optional version but the bottom line is its a convertible & nothing will sound as good as a coupe or sedan. Beside have the exhaust valves permanently open.

Had a 718 Boxster S before the Z4. I like the look of the 19" tires over the 18". The tires on the Z4 M40i are non-RFT so the side wall are a lot less stiff.

With the adaptive suspension you really need to hit some very bad roads before the 19"s feel harsh.

[Horseman]

Originally Posted by RigaTony1982

What's more crazy is those are the same seats in the two pictures. Funny how the lighting can make them look so different.

Don't even get me started on the Magma Red (ORANGE) seats. lol