3.0 Z4 Coupe VS Z4 M Coupe

[enjybenjy]

Hi
Has anyone actually driven these back to back? If so, what is the real world difference between the two - does the M give you much more over the 3.0 Sport (M suspension, seats etc)?
Any experiences would be welcomed

Benj

[StuB]

I think this has been well covered in the press around launch time and there are some significant differences, the M posessing and M diff (LSD), none-electric steering and the S54 motor. Price, running cost and re-sale will also factor into the equation, but too early to see what might happen.

Trackdemon has a 3.0 a loves it, which is as good a testament to how good this car is for me (his previous car being an NSX).

I've been in an MZ4 coupe and subjectively (not back to back) the specimen I went in felt as quick as the owners (Gyrock's) CSL. Others here have the M and love it to bits too. Doctor D's M was also in Evo with some choice enhancements making a significant improvements.

[Jason_W]

I can only give you an idea of the differences between the Roadsters, although there will be many similarities. The main benefits of the Z4M are in the steering, ride and chuckability departments which are drasticly improved in the first two areas with the third being a case of getting used to the slippy diff before you gain confidence and become a 'driving God'...

The DSC is quicker to disengage on the M, rather than going through the whole cycle on the 3.0 and the car generally behaves much better on bumpy roads with it turned off. The sport button definitlely makes a difference on the M, whereas with the 3.0 I always felt it was more for show, however, the CDV on the M seems to make much harder work of changing gears than it did in the 3.0 which was easier.

I think the M is a lot more yobby than the 3.0 and consequently you have to grab it by the scruff of the neck to get the best out of it, which is probably why it hasn't had the best of reviews given that it doesn't handle as well as a Boxster but it does have a fantastic engine and excellent stoppers.

[enjybenjy]

OK thanks, so from a Lotus, I'd understand the M more than the 3.0?

[Jason_W]

I don't know how to answer that as neither car will handle as well as a Lotus, irrespective of which model you're transitioning from but if it's outright pace you're after, then the M would be the better choice.