2007 BMW Z4 M Coupe Preview

Written By: MyRide.com
Reprinted under license.

When personality outweighs appearance

Introduction

A few years back, BMW offered a funky coupe version of its M convertible, with both models being based on the popular Z3. It was a unique ride that offered a bit more functionality than its drop-topped sibling, as well as an added splash of individuality. Then came the M's demise, coinciding with the launch of the all-new Z4, and that groovy hardtop was gone. Until now, that is, because the coupe is back. For 2007, there will be regular and extra-strength versions available, the latter being the Z4 M Coupe. Along with its unique styling, BMW's newest hardtop delivers 343 horsepower, a five second 0-62 mph time, 18-inch alloy wheels, and an assortment of M-specific updates.

How Much It Costs

There's no word on pricing yet, but BMW has confirmed that the 2007 Z4 M Coupe will be built at the company's Spartanburg, South Carolina facility.

What It Is

With the release of the 2006 Porsche Cayman S, a hardtop Boxster with nearly 300 horsepower, BMW needed something other than the 3 Series Coupe to compete. Hence, the 2007 Z4 M Coupe was created, filling the void created when the Z3 Coupe had its last curtain call in 2002. Back then, BMW's two-passenger two-door attracted a niche crowd, one that has since longed for the return of its niche product. It's also a suitable alternative to the Z4 M Roadster, for those who desire a fixed roof.

What's Under the Hood

Under the hood of the 2007 BMW Z4 M coupe is a 3.2-liter, inline six-cylinder engine cranking out 343 horsepower and 269 lb.-ft. of torque, pushing this ride to 62 mph in five seconds and hitting an electronically-governed 155 mph. The standard transmission is a six-speed manual. Behind the scenes, the 2006 BMW Z4 M Coupe will likely offer the same nifty technology announced for the 2007 Z4 M Roadster. That includes a floating compound performance brake system, like that in the M3's Competition Package, to provide excellent stopping power; Brake Drying; Brake Standby; Brake Fade Compensation; and Start-Off Assistant, a system designed to hold the M Coupe still when the brakes are released on an incline. The high-performance suspension found on the M Roadster has been specifically tuned for application on the Coupe. All of this adds up to an amazing machine, considering BMW's claim that the 2007 Z4 M Coupe outran the M3 and Z4 M Roadster during testing on the famous Nurburgring race track.

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