It will be a very Happy New Year from Munich next January as BMW launch a revised Z4 Roadster range at the Detroit Show that will include an 'M' version powered by the company's 343hp straight six. The powerplant is mated to a six-speed manual gearbox and BMW M’s variable M differential.

Unlike the ‘standard’ Z4 that uses an electromechanical steering system, the new Z4 M Roadster uses a hydraulic power assistance system. The ‘standard’ car also uses Run-flat tyres as opposed to the M Roadster’s non-Run-Flat items - both features that M, as a separate division, believes give the car its own ‘M’ character. These features are reinforced by BMW M’s floating compound high-performance braking system, originally conceived for the BMW M3 CSL, resulting in a 62mph to zero stopping distance of just 34 metres.



Visually, the new Z4 M Roadster is differentiated from the ‘standard’ car by numerous details inside and out. From the front, the lower valance, large air intakes and dual styling lines on the bonnet clearly identify the M car while, at the rear, BMW M’s trademark quad-tailpipes and aerodynamic diffuser highlight the car’s potential. The M-styling is finished off with exclusive M double-spoke 18-inch alloy wheels with 225/45ZR18 tyres on the front and 255/40ZR18s on the rear.

The Z4 M Roadster is available in eight exterior colours, with three exclusive M colours – Sepang Bronze, Interlagos Blue and Imola Red.

Internally, the familiar Z4 interior is complemented by new leather finishes in Black, Imola Red, Light Sepang Bronze or Sepang Brown and trim strips in Hexagon Aluminium, Black Carbon Leather or Madeira Walnut wood. In front of the driver a bespoke BMW M instrument binnacle featuring a black background with white numerals and red needles helps keep the driver in touch with vital driving information.

Text: Classic Driver
Photos: BMW