When Manuals Go Bad: Why We Wouldn’t Choose the Stick-Shift BMW Z4
The BMW Z4 made its debut in 2018 as a unique player in the shrinking market of two-seat sports cars. Its survival relied on a partnership with Toyota, which also revived the Supra. Now, in 2024, the introduction of a manual gearbox option provides an opportunity to reassess the Z4. Despite never being our favorite sports car, we wonder if the addition of the manual transmission, coupled with some chassis improvements and a less crowded field, makes it more appealing.
With the Audi TT Roadster phasing out, the Porsche Boxster transitioning to electric power, and the Mercedes SLC long gone, the internal combustion engine (ICE) Z4 has become an outlier in the sports car arena.
At a Glance:
Pros:
- Comfortable ride
- Quick performance
- Surprisingly fuel-efficient
Cons:
- Not the stiffest body structure
- More grand tourer than sports car
- Feels oversized on the road
What’s New?
The standout feature for 2024 is the Handschalter Pack, introducing a six-speed manual gearbox for the M40i variant, along with retuned rear dampers, variable steering, helper springs, and a reinforced anti-roll bar clamp. This exclusive package is available only in a striking matte green with a tan interior. The regular M40i continues to offer an eight-speed automatic gearbox, providing more color options. BMW has streamlined the lineup, eliminating the 30i engine and simplifying trim levels to just two: the turbocharged four-cylinder 20i and the powerful 3.0-litre M40i.
Specs Overview:
True to its performance heritage, the Z4 M40i houses a robust straight-six engine, producing 336 bhp from the turbocharged ‘B58’ engine. Engine positioning aims for a perfect 50:50 weight distribution, critical for sports car dynamics. The Z4 is notably wider at the front (nearly 100mm) and shorter in wheelbase compared to its predecessor.
With a kerb weight of 1535 kg, the M40i features 19-inch Michelin Pilot Super Sports tires, identical to those used on the BMW M3/4. The suspension setup includes MacPherson struts in the front and a multi-link configuration in the rear.
Interior Experience:
Inside, the Z4 feels more akin to a luxury saloon than a sports car. The high-quality fit and finish, ample storage for larger items, and a fully digital instrument cluster echo the design language of BMW’s 3- and 8-series. While the iDrive 7.0 system may not be the latest version, its blend of a 10.25-inch touchscreen and a rotary controller, along with physical shortcut buttons, remains user-friendly.
The transition to a fabric roof, replacing the previous hard-top, enhances the Z4’s practicality. It’s lighter, quicker to operate (about 10 seconds), reduces noise, and offers consistent luggage space with a fixed 265-liter boot.
Driving Dynamics:
Driving the Z4 is a breeze, whether the roof is up or down. The engine runs quietly during casual driving, providing comfort for long distances. However, the ride can feel a bit busy on rougher roads, somewhat undermining its comfort.
In terms of performance, the Z4 delivers ample speed, with the straight-six engine producing a pleasant burbly roar—albeit enhanced artificially through speakers, featuring synthetic pops in Sport mode that may quickly become monotonous. The throttle response is sharp, and while the automatic gearbox is well-tuned for spirited driving, it lacks the quick-shifting excitement of a dual-clutch system.
As for the manual transmission, it proves to be less than thrilling. The shift action is rubbery and notchy, with the pedals noticeably offset to the right. The six gears leave drivers cruising at higher RPMs than desired.
The M40i comes standard with adaptive dampers, upgraded brakes, and an electronically controlled locking differential, enhancing its dynamic capabilities. The interplay between the steering, dampers, and diff is crucial for the Z4’s handling. The car’s innovative damping system responds in real-time to various driving conditions, offering an engaging experience.
Despite this, the Z4 tends to lean more toward being a comfortable cruiser rather than an exhilarating sports car. While it may not evoke the same thrill as a Porsche Boxster, it excels in refinement and usability compared to the likes of the Audi TT Roadster and Mercedes SLC. The Handschalter Pack does provide a slight edge, but it ultimately doesn’t transform the driving experience as one might hope.
Conclusion:
In summary, while the 2024 BMW Z4 introduces interesting updates, including a manual gearbox, it still feels more suited for relaxed cruising rather than outright sports car performance. Its comfort and refinement are commendable, yet the lack of exhilarating feedback and thrilling dynamics leaves much to be desired for those seeking an adrenaline-pumping ride.
Source: Car
