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The original was posted on /r/cars by /u/Dazzling-Rooster2103 on 2025-06-06 18:38:30+00:00.
From Instagram @TheThrottlehouse @KarstonC:
"When it comes to memorable cars, BMW’s full-fat M products have an incredibly high mission success rate. I’ll never forget the riotous M4 CSL, or the elegance of the M8 Competition, or the highly-desirable M2 CS (F87). And somehow, this semi-skimmed Z4 M40i earns its place amongst them by fun factor alone.
There’s no doubt the previously mentioned M cars are ‘fun’, but it’s of a sinister flavour. In contrast, the Z4 M40i strikes a joyous sweet spot between performance and engagement. Open-top, short wheelbase, power to the rear, manual, and a B58 engine up front – lovely.
By now the B58 needs no introduction. The turbocharged 3.0 inline 6 cylinder is BMW’s bread and butter, and it’s no surprise that it’s such a good companion to the Z4. It delivers peak torque (369 lb-ft) from as low as 1,800 rpm, and hits peak horsepower (382 hp) all the way up to its 6.5k redline. It gives you usable torque down low, and encourages you to rev it all the way out – the best of both worlds.
The 6-speed still retains BMW’s characteristically long throws, but instead of its usual partners in crime - vagueness and mushyness - it’s now more direct and mechanical. A recipe for manual elite satisfaction. Gears aren’t ridiculously tall either. Second gear tops out at ~95kph (59mph), meaning you get to enjoy more than just a single gear change before law-breaking speeds.
The short wheelbase is a big part of the Z4’s playfulness. Loads of front-end grip and a seating position so close to the rear axle means you get to enjoy the rotation of the chassis even more clearly. Interesting stat - the Z4 has an EVEN shorter wheelbase (by 106mm) than the GR86/BRZ.
I really enjoyed my time with the Z4. It’s an understated looking roadster that’s aging well, with a good interior full of physical buttons. My only few gripes were the lack of steering feel (typical BMW), a rather busy ride even in comfort mode, and the $82k CAD starting price ($96k as tested). In fact, 2026 sees a price jump to $87k starting. That makes it over $20k more expensive than GR Supra; quite a premium for a badge upgrade and the privilege of no roof."
https://www.instagram.com/p/DKkY_-YuTDI