Rumors of a so-called Z2 roadster have been tumbling about the web for at least two years, but so far nothing has come of it. The latest report from AutoZeitung, however, is chock-full of specifics and has more of an air of authenticity to it than most rumors. Still, without official confirmation, it's speculation at best.
That speculation would lead us to believe that a range of four-cylinders, including a 120hp entry-level model and a 211hp turbocharged unit could be on the table for the smallest of BMW's roadsters. A target price of about 25,000 - at least 5,000 cheaper than the existing Z4 - would put it at the more affordable end of the spectrum, but still far from inexpensive. The soft-top car would be fairly light, however, and the parsimonious four-pots would be efficient, so the car would minimize running costs and road taxes in Europe and the UK, making an argument for ownership.
Performance from the spunky little engines would likely be sporting, but not fast: estimates put 0-62mph (0-100km/h) times around 7 seconds, and top speed at about 150mph (240km/h). Configuration would be as a two-seater with a 'weekender' luggage area, suitable for the compact luggage that accompanies overnight getaways.
Whether the car is eventually built or not, it won't likely see sales in the U.S. in the near term, as even the 1-series coupes on offer here are only available with the inline-six in naturally aspirated and twin-turbo form. Four-cylinder engines with turbochargers and direct injection could eventually see U.S. sale, but the first applications for them will likely be conservative 3-series sedans, not sports cars. The whole matter, for the U.S., anyway, is expected to hinge on the outcome of the U.S. presidential election and whether or not the EPA reverses its decision to bar California's emissions regulation waiver.
BMW already has a cabrio variant for its 1-series, and given that it's available with the snarling twin-turbo 3.0L six-cylinder, it would seriously outperform the prognosticated Z2, even with its back seats intact. How that aligns with plans for a new sub-Z4 roadster, especially with the all-new Z4 due out sometime in 2009, remains unclear, though as the car grows in size and price, it creates a natural space below within the lineup.
Reader Comments
Tue Sep 16 2008 5:33 PM
NoNameDenton says
Yay a new car from BMW, now a crossover thing, bring it to America with a gas turbo 4 and a diesel turbo 4.
Tue Sep 16 2008 6:26 PM
HECTOR says
Well, this was to be expected. After putting out the 1 series with a straight face BMW can put out any old charade of a chick-mobile and not bat an eyelash.
Is there any car company left, within reach of us mortals, that doesn't pander to the lowest common denominator?
Tue Sep 16 2008 8:52 PM
NoNameDenton says
Once again Hector, you never disappoint with making comments that are negative and are not accurate, thanks for being predicatable.
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