NEW:BMW Retractable-Top Roadster - Nope It Is NOT A Z4

Earlier photos of another camouflaged roadster prototype have sparked quite a debate with the spy-community as to whether the model were seeing here is the next generation Z4, or a totally new roadster dubbed, by most, as the Z9 -though it could be called Z6.

Pictures of the prototype that were sent in January were taken in Munich, and had a fabric roof, while the one were seeing here has a solid retractable hardtop. If its really the Z9 (or Z6 if you prefer) then we have a future successor to the retro-styled BMW Z8 and a possible competitor to the Mercedes SL.

Still, spies, analysts and other experts are still confused as to which model this is. Both sides have strong points, even though the camouflaged roadster that were seeing is obviously much larger than the Z4.

Some sources are still saying that the next-generation Z4 will be doing a bit of growing up to make room for an entry-level 1-series-based roadster dubbed Z2.

On the other hand, noticing the side window covers and the folding metal roof, were very sure that were seeing the Z9, as we highly doubt that the next-gen Z4 will be fitted with an electric hard-top.

In addition, unnamed industry sources attending the Chicago Auto Show today have all but confirmed that this is NO Z4!

Were still uncertain about the name, but we are sure that BMW will be giving the SL a run for its money! `

NARunner - 2/7/2007 4:48:24 PM

0 Boost

photos are a repost

mstangpny07 - 2/7/2007 5:10:55 PM

0 Boost

anything else new?

009, search before you post.

hkaudi - 2/8/2007 3:16:56 AM

+1 Boost

Typical of Autospies repost :P

S4cabriofoxone - 2/7/2007 7:01:16 PM

+1 Boost

I said it before- NOT a Z4. That thing can fit a V10. SL competitor.

M53R - 2/8/2007 6:45:18 AM

+2 Boost

X-ray goggles anyone?

TimE - 2/8/2007 3:36:27 PM

+1 Boost

It's a new Z4 (development code E89)! Coming in 2009. With N54 3.0L turbo engine (the one from 335i), Z4M will feature V8 from upcoming M3. Both metal & canvas roof undergoing the tests now - and the test results will be a base for a decision which roof goes makes into production.


New Z8 is coming in 2011/12 - with more engine choices, not just one like previus Z8.
Z8 final design is not even chosen yet, but the chassis & drivetrain development is already in progress.

AdmiralT20 - 2/8/2007 7:33:28 PM

+1 Boost

+1. I keep telling people the same. Z8 replacement design is yet to be approved.
It is the Z4 with the N54 engine

S4cabriofoxone - 2/8/2007 9:56:48 PM

+1 Boost

Ahh... that makes sense. The Z4 will have a (much) longer hood to accomodate the engine.

But won't that compromise the weight and handling of the car? It doesn't look very TT/Boxster-sized.

And do they really need that gargantuan of an engine in their entry-level roadster? The TT RS will be making do with a turbocharged inline five (350-400hp).

AdmiralT20 - 2/8/2007 10:34:33 PM

+1 Boost

The N54 engine I believe is lighter than the S54 engine in the current Z4M.
The N54 is out of Aluminium block while the S54 I believe is cast from an Iron block. So in that regards, I doubt if the N54 will negate handling, but will rather reduce the nose-heaviness.
Well, do they need a bigger powerplant- I think so, if you consider what the competition is up to.

TimE - 2/9/2007 5:53:05 AM

+1 Boost

1. Upcoming V8 M engine is also a very light engine for its size!

2. Z4 won't be an entry roadster anymore: smaller Z2 is coming! Just like E92/3 3er coupe / cabrio are not to be entry coupe / cabrio anymore with 1er/2er coupe / cabrio coming. Same thing happened with X5 when X3 was introduced. See: BMW are moving existing models up-market to make space for new entry models. Natural progression.


PS: do not be fooled by the size of prototype in the spy pics. Its proportions make the prototype looking bigger than it really is. Also plastic cladding (camo) is very voluminous - to hide all the curves & creases.

E89 is a 100% looker - not controversial like E85 Z4. Yet it looks very modern , futuristic & extremely dynamic - all that without controversy!