The BMW Z4 SDrive 35iS - Better Than The Old Z4 M?

No car frustrated me more than my old Z4 M - it was punishingly stiff, and had a terrible gearbox. For the second generation Z4, BMW never made an ///M - the closest we got was the 35iS - so how good was it?
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[@Si1983h]

Don’t worry about the wind noise, we can’t hear it over that shirt.😉

[@comfywomfy]

HaHaHaHa

[@zzhughesd]

Gamiss look for one there. They're better still on wacky score

[@Marcus-jv7xq]

don't be homophobic!

[@Si1983h]

Who’s being homophobic?

[@azmike3572]

He names the shirt's company--"Claud Uglio".

[@DR_socal]

the bmw z4 e89 looks much better than any porsche. The long front end is signature roadster.

[@Jake-ie6bi]

Imo, one of the best looking BM’s of all time

[@TheSleathable]

E89 is a car that works fast or slow, roof up or down and that is a incredibly rare and overlooked thing.

[@SWatchik]

Do love the Z4 in general. I think the interior and exterior have aged fantastically well.

[@JayEmmOnCars]

BMW's prettiest cars for years

[@MadelnMachines]

It will certainly age better than the new one!

[@ogkhud]

@Nigel Phelps they are pretty sick in person

[@peterscheffer4521]

Lovely review. Got my Z4 35iS from 2011. Now 5 years and 175k kilometers on the odo. It's NOT a sportcar. It's a big powerful GT. I'll do fast corners, but with a bit of smoke :) My wife loves it for its comfort.... Happy wife.... :)

[@SirtubalotTX]

FBO and tune on that N54 might change your mind....

[@Kref3]

I own the 35i. I wanted to go for the 35iS, but it was not available with a manual transmission and that is what I wanted to have in a sporty car. Since it is not only the most sporty car I have ever owned (after a BWM E38 728i, an Opel Astra F Estate and an Audi 80 B3 1.6l), but actually the most sporty car I have ever driven (Never sat in a Porsche or something comparable), I have no real comparison, so I stick with liking it tremendously, even if there are sportier cars. I cannot miss what I do not know

[@chiawildy563]

The 35is is great combination of appearance and performance. That long nose look is timeless.

[@valicourt]

The e89 ages well. In my opinion it was a classic from the moment it came out. I’ll never sell mine. Instead I’ll bury it in a barn somewhere so in 50 years from now someone can have a wonderful barn find. The classic Z4

[@cartsunlimited7193]

Great video and review. Enjoyed your assessment of the car and your comparisons are very informative. Still undecided

[@Tracertme]

I bought one of these for my wife for driving around the coast and to the beach etc in the summer... it's a beautiful looking car gets loads of looks and pleasant remarks, and your right its a 7 tenths kind of car and therefore does the 85% of what you want all the time. But on that reflection if you rag most cars out to near their 10 tenths they normally start to fall apart somewhere... it's just a matter of how much.. . It reminds me a lot about the BMW 507 you can see the styling aspects so I got a little badge made for it which says heritage 507 and stuck it discreetly in the back window, its red with black top so named it Elvis and I think you know where that tribute is going..... if you watch the 507 restoration story by BMW. :-)

[@angiethomas9686]

I just bought a 2014 and I completely agree with your review. It’s perfect for daily use. Very luxurious and comfortable. It doesn’t feel too sporty except for the sound and of course can’t compare the handling to a Porsche at all, but it’s right for me.

[@mpc007]

At the other hand if you step in a similarly priced Boxster you'll be flat out disappointed by the measly quality of the interior, the lack of options, and the not so powerful stock engine choices. At least that happened to me when looking at 987 models.

[@stevenmiller4840]

I just bought one in this colour. Arrives in a couple of days. I'm 56 I want a bit of this and a bit of that. Maybe when I was younger I'd bought an e85m. I once had a Porsche 944 turbo but now this will suit me fine. It's horses for courses.

[@chrissydenham6668]

Your knowledge is vast, commentary sweet. JayEmm rockin the roads with all the cars he meets. Cheers

[@JayEmmOnCars]

Nice poem

[@ilduro2]

Jay, you are spot on with the Z4. Mine is a 35i which I have owned and used as a joy car for over ten years now. Personally, I found the suspension less comfy but the setup scarily soft at first. At higher speeds it would spill you all over the road more than your nerves can handle in traffic. I therefore had the regular chassis setup replaced with a KW V3 kit and tuned by an accomplished race driver. It made a world of difference, reinstating my trust in the car on winding country roads. The other issues I found were overall weight as a result of the many built-in creature comforts, and a lousy sound system ;-) I can do with the latter, especially when the top is down. In summary, it is not a car every driver may appreciate. It may polarise the interested driving world up to a point - as many roadsters would. But you when you like it, it feels like a wife with some odd habits - habits not quite awkward enough to get a divorce. And yes, she's a looker, too.

[@mpc007]

Interesting choice. Did you have the stock (non-m / non-m adaptive) suspension? I read a lot about people upgrading to KW V3. It seems a great choice to give the car the sharpness the looks and engine deserve.

[@ilduro2]

@@mpc007 The original setup was the stock suspension. Not my cup of tea when it comes to performance.

[@s.godbur3589]

I'm going to get some KW V3. (28i)

[@cameron1975williams]

Nice backdrop to your opening piece-to-camera. The barbwire was a particularly nice touch ;-)

[@mpc007]

I'm looking into one of these. As you say I was kinda unpleasantly surprised when looking at one in the showroom that the cabin doesn't at all feel much more roomy than an E85 one (which I had until last year). Currently driving an '08 TTS as inbetweener but that's really A LOT more spacious than both the E85 and E89. Of course that's only half of the story, as soon as the driving starts you know which one you want ;) EDIT: Last week finally managed to do a testdrive on a 35iS. Your review definitely is on point about the driving characteristics. It feels like a much larger car than both my old E85 and current TTS (which has some suspension upgrades, so the ride is quite hard but takes corners amazingly) and beats those cars easily on comfort. But, that comes at a price and as soon as you take quick slalom in comfort mode (with adaptive suspension in normal) its feels a bit heavy, distant, and cumbersome. The engine is still great however, very powerful and fluent and compared to my TTS is ages better in department of turbo lag and sound quality. And, the 35iS has the Sport+ mode (don't say Sport mode is fine, its not if you want some pace). This tightens everything quite a bit and while it won't become a Z4M you really cannot do a good verdict in a testdrive without also trying this mode with the adaptive m suspension. Its still no Z4M, but its way better than the regular settings on a quick and twisty road. If you need even more, i guess a mechanical slip diff, great tyres, and some extra's in the bushings / sway bar department carries it the last part to bridge the gap.

[@scanspeak00]

Really informative review. I've been considering this model for years. They are really good value right now.

[@WanderingFriar]

I am from a Z4M and bought a 10k mile 2015 35iS and not looked back. I LOVE IT! A different car as you say but Oh soo good! Fast AF too and a real headturner. Even if you weren't looking, it made sure you heard it with that glorious sounding engind and pops and crackles when it changes down (I increased this in MHD flash) thoroughly enjoy this beast. Will be keeping this one!

[@lukamilas8648]

I have a 2015 35is on order, 10k miles too. Still have yours?

[@HenleyBailey]

Didn't know about MHD Flash, thanks for mentioning it as it looks like fun 8)

[@marcuscopley131]

Great review and fast show reference, which was nice😂

[@JayEmmOnCars]

I do my best ;)

[@NoResultsReturned]

I’m new to your channel. It’s 3:30am on Friday night, bit tipsy. Own a Z4M Roadster and have done for about 7 years. Last 2 and bit years it’s been SORN and my other half has been encouraging me to give it a serious detailing and pass it on to a new owner. 06 plate 49k miles, every extra except cupholders. It was my dream car for years.. I saved forever and love it.. but they seem to be appreciating in value (??) and I’m a tad undecided. I youtubed Z4M and it autoplayed here after a couple. Don’t mean to be rude but I’ve driven the 35iS (and like it for what it is), but not familiar with your channel and thought it was going to be a BS wash over, ie blah blah turbos, hard top, blah blah, but was pleasantly surprised. You clearly know your cars sir and I was nodding pretty much all of video. Your critique behind the wheel was excellent. You clearly aimed the video at those who have actually driven the cars you were comparing it to, and it shows. Sorry for the rant. That was a really good watch. Subscribed! Odd you have an Evora. Not comparable, but I’ve got that same 3.5l 2GR-FE lump in a mk3 Toyota Mr2 Roadster as a Black Mirror track toy (pushing 325bhp 1048kg all in). Different box (5 speed e153), but nicely savage! :) EDIT: Seen you have an Evora 400. R1900 supercharger? V Nice!

[@JayEmmOnCars]

Glad you enjoyed it, thanks for subscribing. The 400 has a 1740 Edelbrock charger with a clever chargecooling system built in

[@alangardiner872]

3,30 am on Fri night...is 03.30 am Saturday morning you dick.

[@Dav37D]

Great review.... now I want one!

[@istvanbartha7985]

I've got a Z4 e89 with the 2.5 liter straight six....with some remapping it's very amusing. Last car was a Z4 e85 2.5 liter. The "new" one is a little quicker and much more comfortable. Also it's less nervous in high speeds. However...the old Z4 was a "rawer" car...no fuzz and no refinement....Before that I had a MB SLK 320. That car was very comfortable...maybe not that sporty...but also very fun to travel with. I also had a jag e-type V12 before these cars, and it was super-quick ( especially with fuel injection)...but it broke down all the time and the quality was nowhere near a BMW or MB. I will probably buy a boxster in the future, just to tick that box on my bucket list. However, the engine is difficult to get to and parts are expensive, so I have hesitated so far.

[@john_c1]

Great video. Thank you for pointing out some aspects of this car that made me see it differently- like the boxster comparison. Can you please tell me what is the specific model of the OZ alloys? Thank you

[@xiaozhuyou7817]

Today, when I am leaving a car park,saw a nice Evora parked. Immediately I find a car space and try to have a look. Never seen one in life. The owner is very nice and kind. We talked a lot. And guess who he is, he is the owner of this 35iS. Wow. The world is small. Amazing. I guess Jayem did a good job to introduce the Evora. Finally he bought one.

[@rjwassenaar7511]

I have the 2016 E89 28i in sapphire black metallic with red leather interior and I LOVE IT. It really is the most perfect car: good looking and luxurious on the inside, very sexy and agressive on the outside, and all possible options, like parking sensors rear and front, a marvellous pop-up screen that does almost EVERYTHING, great blue-tooth connection, and USB-connection, and even a hard-disk to store all my favorite music on. It really is the best all-round sexy toy you can have, IMHO. I drove a porsche cayman before and I loved it (although the interior was more spartan), a ferrari (which was too agressive for my taste) and even an Aston Martin (the interior is sooo clinical). This BMW hit everything on the right note. I am not too overly careful with it like I was with my Ferrari, and it is such a better Grand Tourer than the previous Cayman. I JUST LOVE it. There are simply NO downside. And even if you want to mention the boot-space as a down-side, you can order a set of bags that are specifically designed to fit perfecty under the cover when the roof is down and that maximizes all the luggage you need. I went from Holland to Italy in the car once with my partner an we could easily carry what we needed. My advice: LOOK AT THE CAR IRL and take a test-drive for a fw days and you will be smitten also, I am sure. And the quality is soo great.

[@s.godbur3589]

I've got a pearlescent white 28i with no run flats. Transforms it. Got stainless exhaust to on plus larger intercooler.

[@AceITH007]

I have the Z4M Coupe and judging by this vid, my car looks to be a lot more fun and this just has no soul to it. You can’t beat a proper “M” car that’s for sure, especially a straight 6.

[@jamieswain4888]

I have a z4m roadster and agree. A 2 seater roadster is not meant to be a cruiser, it's supposed to be a thrilling drive and the z4m certainly is.

[@billtinney6503]

CapitalC ...Fellow ///M Coupe owner and it's an absolute joy. 3 pedals and a naturally aspirated I6 ftw. The S drive is trash.

[@AceITH007]

Bill Tinney All the right ingredients in a sexy package. What more could you ask for really.

[@guybrushthreepwood3002]

I've got a standard coupe, and it's still better. E89 is just dull. Envious of your M's though

[@garypermanent9724]

I think your shirt matches up with the newer car better. A black T shirt would be appropriate for my z4m coupe. Raucous, sinister, hard to drive smoothly- everything a weekend fun car should be!

[@ddbocast]

There's no doubt about it the 35iS is a forgotten gem. Had one of these for the last 18 months. 7 years old but drives like new. On the basis of "bang for your buck" there seems to be little to beat it. Very well equipped. Roof is lowered at every opportunity. The drive train is simply fantastic. The engine just pulls, pulls, pulls and once the revs reach 3500 the sound is simply sublime. Yes, the handling is not quite up to Boxster standards but the engine and gearbox are better in my opinion. It's a car you invent reasons to drive. If you want a great value convertible and are independently minded then you won't regret buying one of these!

[@ddbocast]

So my 35is is now for sale. I love it to bits but just don't use it enough. I've not spent time remapping the engine or tweaking the suspension - that's not my thing. All the sale details are on my website - tinyurl.com/bmwz4-35is-forsale. I'm based in Surrey so drop me a line if you're interested.

[@visionist7]

@@ddbocast very nice spec. All it's missing is the DVD changer in the glovebox. Fun Fact: you can load the entire Lord Of The Rings extended trilogy DVD set into the changer (two discs per film) and enjoy them on the anamorphic 2:35 screen. What's more, those DVDs had 6.1 audio - rare for DVDs - which perfectly matches the car's Professional speaker package placement with the centre rear surround channel. Wish I was in the UK now.

[@Michael-4]

Seen one for sale in that colour with a black roof. Looked amazing.

[@dafaqking]

If you equip the 35i or 35is with proper coilovers and get a professional to adjust the vehicle, you will see very tight cornering abilities! All of the E89s OEM suspensions are just comfy and feel unpleasant in fast corners. More camber on the front axle is needed to get rid of the massive OEM understeer. Furthermore, the suspensions really needs to be stiffer. KW coilovers will work miracles.

[@future62]

Reminds me of my G37S. Stock suspension was terrible. Coilovers made it absolutely brilliant on the street

[@boguszn1978]

Plus proper sway bars and ATB diff and you are king of the road.

[@charlespace8055]

Proper coilovers, good tires and 500hp tune make this my sleeper 'M' killer. All the while with the top down.

[@jacopovalentino]

Just about any car can corner better with a suspension job. Real challenge is to keep a decent ride.

[@bambamson238]

Speaking of warm it is 30 damn degrees today.

[@MichaelSeeds]

I love your videos. In all honesty I'd rather watch them than the new top gear.

[@jayaybe1]

Yep! No contest ; - )

[@EpiKSquaDv2]

I own a 2015 Z4 35i and you pretty much hit the nail on the head about everything. The Z4 is mainly a luxury GT car that happens to be somewhat tight around corners. I test drove a new Boxster S before I got it, and realized the Z4 makes a better daily driver. If you're just looking for a weekend or track car then the Boxster is definitely the way to go. Winters and long and snowy here so my hardtop is up most of the time and that was another factor, because I personally hate the look of the Boxster with the roof up.

[@bar1ton1]

K. Bhattman yeah. New Z4 is an old mans car.

[@thepericlesof8449]

Same here. It always puts a smile on my face even when pottering around. Perfect car

[@papatorr3669]

K. I'm surprised you didn't pick the Audi TT Quatro given your "winters and long and snowy...factor."

[@EpiKSquaDv2]

Actually my father owned a TTS. I liked it but hated the exterior styling of the roadster version. It was faster and accelerated harder than my Z4; was more reliable too. Thing absolutely mowed through snow. But I prefer my Z4 so I can rip mad skidz too.

[@thepericlesof8449]

What troubled you on your Z4? I just got mine a month ago. Was under the impression that it's a reliable car

[@pereldh5741]

I’d go for the Z4M Coupe anytime, with the Eibach Pro springs. Better comfort & looks too.

[@bakhteria]

Jay, good to c u test driving other cars. I have both a evora and a z4 like toe one ur driving here but the citrus package. Ur review is spot on. Z4 never gives me the cornering confidence of evora but in sport mode the paddle shifts work so much better with the dual clutch.

[@JayEmmOnCars]

It is a great gearbox for sure

[@MrCrrispy]

That color is awesome!!

[@bretthughes1563]

I was never really a fan of BMW, always thought them to be overpriced for what they are. Then I drove one a these belonging to a friend. I ended up buying it. Not a true out and out sports car I thought, perhaps more of a GT? But what fun with it's Michelin Pilot Supersports that I ended putting on it, and more engaging with the roof down. It was a bit disconcerting at first, as I thought the front suspension would rise to much when accelerating at full throttle part way around a bend. Couldn't help thinking that it was upsetting the front geometry to much, but the front end never seemed to loose grip In those circumstances. Always puts a smile on my face.

[@rockinginafreeworld3256]

Don’t worry about the wind noise . I have a cold so cannot smell anything.

[@bambychoi9366]

I like it - I really do. But looking at the used market, I’d struggle to buy one of these over the older, slower, less refined Honda S2000.

[@macrichardson7440]

Beautiful car,,,,,,,,, the shirt burnt my eyes. Had to pause video to get my sunglasses.

[@peterscheffer4521]

194.750 km on the clock and still loving it :)

[@nathangregory_]

Try driving that Z4-M class in Los Angeles. Punishing you say? Quad triple that over here. But I still love it.

[@beetuber6114]

Z4m is nowhere near as harsh in ride quality as you state. You are probably not used to the chassis stiffness. i think you suit a convertible.

[@andrewmitchell2313]

Funky credits..... think I’ve seen that colour scheme somewhere before.....

[@MultiFireblade1000]

This Z4 works very well with the The 2.5 wheel spacers, sports suspension, an ECU remap to unlock the 400hps. with a rear wing and front splitter and It then becomes the Monster BMW shouldve made in the first place. Similar to the Z4 GT3 SERIES.

[@JayEmmOnCars]

It would have been nice to see a factory effort, with that E92 M3 V8, would have been epic

[@deonli8014]

I just brought a z4m and it’s been amazing.

[@ianedmonds9191]

I've been driving a 2.5si for a year and i'm really tempted by a z4m. Such a good car. Worst still I have the money in a bank account. Really tempted but now they look like investments propositions. It's now or never for one. And driving one for 30,000 miles would be a big financial loss. It sucks. Luv and Peace.

[@ianedmonds9191]

Edited: Missed and 'a'

[@lj86johnson24]

I recently bought a Boxster 986 3.2S. Originally I was considering a Z4, but couldn't believe I could get a 986 for around 30% less than the Z4 35i. I think you're absolutely spot on to say they are totally different beasts and comparing to the Boxster is utterly pointless. As you said, the comparison to the SLK (which i've owned) is much fairer. Before I purchased my 986 I had it independently inspected by a guy who is a Porsche specialist. When I mentioned to him that I had been considering the Z4, he pulled a disapproving expression. I probed a little and he said the chassis isn't strong enough and that if you put one up on the jack points, it will flex enough that the door often wont open. To the trained eye, he said you can see the whole car bend a little. If you're looking for a no-frills thoroughbred sports car experience, and are willing to take the possible expense of maintaining an older car, go for a Boxster all day long. If you want more comfort and luxury with all the mod-cons, go for an SLK or a Z4. This review is spot on, they should be considered totally separate categories.

[@future62]

What kind of lighting is that at the end of the video? That is a very good sunlight simulator.

[@bomthebass]

I just bought the exact same one, same colour! Love it. Goes like shit of a hot stick. Got a 2.7 Boxter too and the Z is much quicker

[@antonn.9223]

Steve How does it feel to sit in a brothel

[@gambanteinodal1246]

Very good review! I think many car journalists, youtubers and influensers misunderstand the concept of the roadster. I myself an owner of a 2015 Mercedes-Benz SLK55 AMG think that is sad... You could perhaps do an episode where you define the roadster and the sportscar. I see my car as a GT with a folding top but not a sportscar even though it has performance to match a few. What is your take on the roadster vs the sportscar? Happy New Year! P.S. If you are in Sweden - shout out if you want to test a SLK55 AMG (R172) with all the AMG packages and an open exhaust.

[@mpc007]

The Roadster is not a GT either.

[@tobythomas5079]

The old z4m had issues with bump-steer at the rear from the lower trailing arm bushings moving around and causing changes in dynamic toe, there is a correction kit for that. Slap a set of Ohlins DFV at a road biased setting and it might give it the compliance it didnt have from factory?

[@AudiophilMD]

Good review. I own the E89 28i and it is definitely fun in the corners with the manual box and a 5 second to sixty in the straights. I have driven many other BMWs (no E85) but the E89 has been the most fun. I think the Boxster / E85 is like my MINI. Very fun and precise but may be too harsh for public roads. I would still take the E89 and it's metal roof over a Boxster or Cayman. The BMW E89 looks like a super model next to the Porsches.

[@JayEmmOnCars]

The Boxster rides pretty well

[@AudiophilMD]

Interesting, I know my E89 in sport plus mode is quite harsh. The same can be said for my MINI. I guess the Boxster is precise with a smooth ride and that is why it is so sought-after.

[@platinumlook]

I have to agree the E89 is a truly beautiful timeless design, in and out. It’s drives more than decently enough, if not an out and out so called ‘driver’s car’. But at some stage you enjoy having a car that just makes you constantly want to look at it as much as drive it. I don’t believe you can have a direct comparison with Boxters, Merc SLKs, Z4Ms Etc. Each car has its merits and drawbacks. If you love cars, their designs, mechanics, dynamics and ‘characters’ then nearly all cars are of interest.

[@drumnbass8]

Best colour, I have an M135i of the same generation in the same shade

[@1970boggy]

Great Video Sir Nice car but 😂 Another Lotus for me along with an M2 CS for the everyday stuff

[@thomastalks3841]

New to your channel! Great video! I bought a E85 Z4 a couple of weeks ago for summer, I love your shots & angles! great video!

[@JayEmmOnCars]

Thanks Thomas, welcome to the channel

[@robertbaldwin177]

I have a previous gen E86 3.0si Coupe, the engine down from the Z4M engine. Still kicks out 265hp and 0-60 in 5.6 but that also has a pretty harsh ride, although great fun in the twisties. I keep seeing the newer model and I try hard to like it but the rear lets it down IMO. The original Z4 Coupe, whether M or not, still looks amazing from the rear / side, ignoring the Angry Bird Pig front end. Fact you get best of both worlds with removal lid a real bonus on the newer gen but still, I'll stick to the hardtop older Coupe for now, it's 'proper'!

[@harjitsingh-lc6cu]

i have a 2003 3l z4 which is so visceral and raucous. feels more powerful than my other car amg c 63

[@elvispresley8561]

750hp with tdo 4 turbos at $1200 if you fit yourself a massive upgrade, will blow supercars away, the N54 a rock solid engine with just a few upgrades.

[@frederiklefevre4723]

E85 z4 was a sports car, so was the Boxster. This is more of a Grand Tourer, half way towards a 6 series.

[@JohnSmith-dw3hc]

That was a great review. I currently have the E89 30i (which I love, by-the-way). Actually, I like it so much that am going to buy a 2016 35iS... Like you said, it's not a go-cart like some other sports cars, but you can get in this car and drive literally 1,000 miles, get out, and your body doesn't hurt at all; anywhere; knees, back, etc.. It feels like you have been driving a 4,500 lb 1979 Oldsmobile. The closest thing I can compare the Z4 to (from personal experience) is my old Twin-Turbo Mitsubishi 3000GT VR-4; which also had a great combination of acceleration, speed, handling, nice looking interior, and comfort. I wonder if this SDrive35iS BMW twin turbo engine is as bullet-proof as the 3.0L in my VR-4?? I take care of my engines, but love to push them to their recommended limits.

[@antonn.9223]

I’ve done some research and I’m buying a 30i since the N52 engine is way more reliable than the N54. Ofcourse the N54 has won ”The Engine of the Year” award freaking 5 times in a row but it still has its problems and 30i is going to be way easier for you, but if you have the love to take care of it, go for the 35iS. Also please tell your BMW that I love it :)

[@peterscheffer4521]

Engine will need new bobines, injectors and fuelpump anwhere upwards fron 80kkm. But driving it, and not expecting a sportscar, is just wonderful. Driving the Alps, the Provence, the Pyrenees, Black Forrest....just lovely. My wife loves it. And you know what they say....happy wife..... :)

[@Johnnygga]

i have an e85 Z4 3.0i 6-speed manual and it’s way more fun than those newer ones. the M is a jump beyond that and it’s a diamond in the rough

[@raidacaipo]

How would u know if u only had a 3.0i?

[@Johnnygga]

@@raidacaipo I’ve driven them too. They’re easier to live with but you’re giving up the fun part.

[@chrisgriff901]

I drove an e89 28i and a gt86 back to back today. GT86 had WAY better handling (steering better and it stuck like glue apart from the playful back end) and sounded nicer to my ears (though not as much grunt to the noise as the zed). The 86 felt like getting on a roller-coaster but the interior is so drab, jayemm was right when he said you really have to commit to wanting a drivers car with it cos you can get so much more for you money. I'd say the e89 was about 80% as fun as the gt86. Steering was lacking in feedback, however it had much more power. The drop top definitely adds to the fun. The e89 is much more comfortable and has a much nicer interior. It would definitely be the easier car to live with. Verdict: Gt86 for weekend toy if you can deal with or prefer not having a drop top. E89 if you want a daily driver that still puts a smile on your face (I'll be getting the zed!)

[@BFGbmw]

I owned both simultaneously. Z4m is a true driver’s car, e89 is a bmw-badged slk. I still miss my z4m, and yet disappointed by whole e89 generation.

[@jimbo3682]

Good video

[@Darkeiser.7]

Well. I know a guy who builds n54 motors. His shop is near Birmingham, AL The most power I've seen him get out of an n54 was 1200 hp to the crank. Imagine that in a Z4 35i!! It wouldn't be just be better than the z4m it would blow it away.

[@scanspeak00]

Hi Jayemm. In regards to the harsh ride in your old Z4 M, I wonder if that could have been improved. Do you recall the size of your wheels are whether you had run flats?

[@JayEmmOnCars]

18, non run flat

[@thescrammer5526]

So if you don't want a true analog sports car like the E85/86 Z4M with an 8K rpm naturally aspirated engine and 6 speed manual - buy the Z4 SDrive 35iS, cruise in "drive", and be comfy to your heart's content.

[@JayEmmOnCars]

Basically, yep

[@Fee.1]

Right, buy what you want to drive/can most enjoy/makes sense for you instead of buying what you deeply appreciate but will rarely get to drive/doesnt work with your roads etc .Novel idea right?

[@Dirk_Taggesell]

@@Fee.1 What?

[@future62]

@@Dirk_Taggesell Pick the right tool for the job. I don't go on the track or drive recklessly down back roads... just the highway, neighborhood streets and road trips with my wife. This sounds way better for that than the Z4M. Being a car guy doesn't have to mean driving the stiffest, loudest, rawest thing possible.

[@MadelnMachines]

I'd like to see you try the new one. From what you describe this car sounds like a nice relaxing car to cruise around in. That would be nice enough a lot of the time. However, I need more so when I want to trash it I have an amazing exhilarating time. Would your opinion change much with a few modifications like suspension etc? The way you describe it sounds like its more a car for an older gent or business man. I guess MX-5 / Boxster would be better for me. A car with a split personality disorder. I don't tend to like cars that feel big and wide either on narrow roads. The 981 Boxster felt pretty wide and big to me.

[@kip8790]

I love my Z4MC, I’m not sure how you get frustrated with it, I don’t find it stiff in the slightest. My 130i suspension is way more stiff. Daily drive my coupe without any problems. You sure yours didn’t have stiffer springs fitted?

[@trustgtr33]

u gotta to love inline sixes..

[@minityper]

The e89 is pure art.

[@chrisogrady28]

I’d love a video on the 135i convertible, pretty much the same engine as this but more cabin space. I’m heavily considering one. I “need” a fun 2+2 RWD manual convertible, was looking at 997 cabs to begin with but might take a bit more saving up for a nice one.

[@JayEmmOnCars]

I love the 135i. My step mother used to have a vert. Consider also the 335i

[@chrisogrady28]

JayEmm on Cars your step mother sounds like a badass, yeah I’ve looked at 335 but the whole hardtop situation puts me off, more weight and more boot intrusion. I’d put up with that for an E93 M3’s engine though if I find some more cashola

[@JayEmmOnCars]

Consider also a 645i vert, hugely underrated cars. Bigger than a 135 of course but twice the car

[@chrisogrady28]

JayEmm on Cars oh yes, very much considered, especially having that body retractable rear window, and the buttresses of the soft top are so cool. It’s just very hard to find a manual 6 cab, might have to tell my local dealer to keep an eye out for me.

[@JayEmmOnCars]

Get an auto. I tried to find a manual too when I bought my coupe. There were only two and the owners both told me it wasnt a great box. That V8 is built for an auto

[@CarToneHK]

My brother has a 23i and it is every bit the cruiser as this is, however, since it's slower, it doesn't fall apart as much when you're pushing it Though my money would go to a Z4M with some aftermarket coilovers with the dampers soften up

[@Si1983h]

車臣 My money would either go on an e85 3.0si with non run flats fitted or an Alpina roadster (quicker and smoother than an M).

[@tigercat418]

Si1983h i would go for natural badge very smooth

[@jamieswain4888]

Si1983h the alpina is not quicker than the z4m at all 😂😂 it's also very ugly and dated. No lsd either. The z4m is a much better car.

[@Si1983h]

Jamie Swain the Z4m is a better track car than the Alpina but the Alpina is better as a daily drive, as is the 3.0si. And according to book specs, the Alpina is quicker (4.7 0-60 for the Alpina vs 5.0 0-60 for the M). A good friend of mine is a luxury used car dealer, he’s had both in his inventory at the same time so we’ve had the chance to compare them. I love the Z4m but I couldn’t live with one as my daily drive, I could an Alpina though. And I know which one is most exclusive.🙂 The one I’m actually going to buy is the 3.0si, it’s the sweet spot in the range for performance vs price, and when you get rid of the horrid run flats, they’re surprisingly comfortable and less skittish.

[@Si1983h]

desertdetroiter yes, I’ve had a couple and sold my last one because I’ve got severe arthritis (I can’t walk without sticks now) but I’ve got to have another... I drove one recently and managed to get in and out easily enough with the top down... which is how I’d always drive it.

[@ItsTheNada]

I'm a very happy owner of a Z4M and I hope to keep it for as long as I possibly can. BUT... there is one critical mod that one must get to truly enjoy their Z4M. And that... is another car. Commuting day in and day out, made me begin to hate my M. I picked up a B5 S4 to commute in and now LOVE my M. The S4 is supple, fun, a little squishy at times, but truly enjoyable. It's like a bottle of Pino that both my wife and I can pick up and enjoy any time. The M is a hairy bottle of whiskey. You look at the bottle and admire it, but you kinda don't want to touch it during the work week. I like the feeling of getting out of the S4 and into the M and back. Keeps me appreciating both cars. More importantly, it keeps me loving that M.

[@JayEmmOnCars]

I think that's a very good policy

[@rdinty]

I feel exactly same way. 2007 z4m owner. Toyota 4runner during the week

[@al-maskari5463]

Thank you bro Dose anyone know about BMW Z4 2012 v6 turbocharger Any common problem with this car?

[@flybobbie1449]

I'm on my 2nd set of Goodyear F1, can recommend them. But no matter what tyres, can feel a bit unstable on rough roads with it's wooden steering. And manual box a bit notchy, would love to try an auto.

[@flybobbie1449]

My manual box has improved a lot using Redline MT-LV gear box oil.

[@visionist7]

@@flybobbie1449 I tried a 23i with the manual and found it very direct and an easy shift. My 35i had the DCT though

[@flybobbie1449]

I just changed the front wish bones to E90 wish bones, what a difference. I think it's changed the front camber.

[@robertparkphotography2451]

You have to put it in Sport + . Mine is very stiff in sport + with no traction control. If you leave it in the the standard mode it is a boat. Sport + with traction control off is very aggressive in the shifting. You did ZERO justice to it. While it is nothing like my NSX it is surprising in the most aggressive modes. With a performance flash it can be a beastly tourer.

[@chugo145]

Nice vid. i would disagree on the 35iS as better than the old Z4M. from the vid, the car does not have soul. It was summed up well when Jay sad - pull a button; then the car up shifts or down shift.. BMW should be the ultimate driving machines, not the ultimate POSH machines.

[@adrianhazzard6665]

Very much for the TT/SLK driver. I’d personally got for a 981 Cayman S.

[@madhupuvvada5125]

Got a choice 306hp 18in v 340hp 19in. Is there much in it?

[@bwdrives]

I would have one of these in a heartbeat but the N54 scares me a bit, need to accumulate more of an "oh shit" fund

[@STRENGTH444]

I'd take this over a boxter... Comfy when you need it to be, fast when you want it to. Plus itl beat a boxter of the same price in a straight line, which lets be honest is the only time youll ever be against a porsche on the roads. Very tunable

[@JC-po3xu]

I love Porsche but took my Z4 over a Boxster because it's sexier hardtop up or down.

[@mpc007]

This looks like the car that can bridge the gap from an E85 to a 981 Boxster (pricewise).

[@taiko2253]

I still dont understand why BMW made the gear shift pedals that way.... left is down / right is up anyday!

[@irou95]

I have e85, and I like the soft top better as it opens faster and the car feels lighter, plus those e89's are still quite expensive even if most of them are 10 years old already

[@Zeld322]

Big fan of my e85 as well, lovely all rounder especially in 3 litre form!

[@chawenhalo0089]

Funny reading the inevitable Porschists comments "I'd rather a Boxter or Cayman". Lol. The Z4M is a pure sports, punishing as a daily but with bags of character and very competent in the right hands. OEM suspension was a little misguided (too soft and not enough "civilian geometry") as it was a sports car that wanted GT credentials (but was not so good at that) but also was a little porky for a sports car. Still a hell of a lot more fun and much faster that a Cayman. Good accurate video, thanks.

[@Eastcoastcarclub]

I don’t think I’ve ever heard anyone call the Z4Ms suspension too soft

[@s4ms0n1t3]

Seeing as you've had both jay...e46 m3 or z4m? as an m3 owner I can say it's not as crashy and hard as your describing the z4m to be.

[@JayEmmOnCars]

If I had to have one of my two back, it would be the Z4

[@Neofolis]

I'd buy the SLK or SLC now, if it was a daily driver. In fact, that may be my next car. The BMW is still not quite as refined and the Porsche is better as a weekend car.

[@Jessicorn81]

Boxster for me all day ..lovely car that BM though

[@JB-F10-M5]

I have been working for some time trying too convince my wife that it’s her idea to have one of these as her next car😉. But I also have to convince her that I don’t want her to have one of them because only then will she insist I have to get her one 😂👍🏽

[@PenCrisis]

You're also driving a nodded z4 jay. I drove one that was stock with OEM run flats and the drive quality was not fun. Very stiff and bumpy ride and felt like there were no dampers. Of course this can be fixed with better tires and some coilovers but a stock z4 is not a luxurious ride. Boxster is a much better roadster or even a miata.

[@Techathy]

EDIT: Let's make a little more sense! The OE wheels and tyres are criminally bad for ride quality. As Jay drove the car the only changes were 18" wheels with non-RFT tyres. I've experimented with 19" wheels and tyres with stiffer sidewalls but that doesn't really make the car any faster point to point and just makes it less comfortable. In this setup is nearly as fast round a track as it is riding on 19" wheels and MPSS tyres. The difference is the 19" setup can't deal with falling to bits road surfaces nearly as well. The penalty is that the car starts to feel like you're getting close to the limits well before it runs out of grip.

[@visionist7]

@@Techathy I was actually considering going for seventeens on mine. Ultrac Sessantas I was planning to fit. Then O gave up and sold it. Well, gave it away more than sold it.

[@i_read_bad_reviews]

These are stupid beautiful

[@spencerh1813]

Gotta weigh in on this as a Z4 M owner, 335i owner, and former Cayman S owner. The new Z4 is a luxury sports car. Not a sports car. The Z4 M is not a daily driver. I would never daily that car. It’s to hard, stiff, and demanding. But for a canyon carver or a track day car it is impossible to beat for the price. The Cayman S was a tight handling car. But it’s not a raw sports car. Very refined. I think Richard Hammond’s comparison did a very good job. If you want a good daily driver get a 335i or an M3 (e36/e46/e92/F30) or a Z4 35is only if you want a drop top daily with two seats. 335i e92 does the same but with 5 seats. The only BMW that is more raw than the Z4 M (analog, great connection, responsive and demanding) is an S54 Z3 M Coupe. Or you could get an older 964 or 993 Porsche 911. The Z3 and Z4 M’s were BMW’s last “true” sports cars and the Porsche 964 and 993’s were their last “true” sports cars. Just remember Colin Chapman from Lotus, “Simplify, then add lightness”. You can’t make a heavy design a light one. No matter how hard you try!

[@Whiponized]

Used to have one!

[@markbutler9291]

FYI if the cars giving 370BHP on a dyno, it has a stage one ECU map

[@sheilamorrison1954]

Its not. Apart from the dyno probably reading a little high, N54 are notorioius for putting 350-360 down bog standard. Mine did.

[@user-1500HP]

It needs stiffer springs and ARB's to make it handle and feel like a real sports car in the bends.

[@peterscheffer4521]

Not a sportscar. Buy something different.

[@inflatable2]

How did you know? I own a BMW E89 Z4 30i.. It's my daily.. :P I have it running on OEM 19" runflats that are pretty stiff as well, but still bearable enough.. Also find the (last) natural aspirated 3.0L inline 6 with 258 HP plenty fast enough, the 35is must be a beast.. Did not opt for that because even 258HP can hardly ever be used to it's fullest for long with all these speed limits around.. If I lived in Germany with limitless autobahns I would get the more powerful turbo version as well probably.. But it's also just kind of cool to be driving the last ever made NA i-6 (N52) from BMW.. And yes, they sound awesome, even stock..

[@Techathy]

As Jay drove the car the only changes to it since delivery have been the wheels and tyres. The feeling of stiffness comes from.a lack of flexibility in the tyre sidewall & the weight of the wheels. Put lighter wheels and non-RFT tyres on, especially 18" rpms, and you realise how soft the car really is. The engine is actually happy to be driven as a low-revving unit, what you notice more than the 375~383bhp at 6000 rpm is that 40mph in 7th (around 1200rpm) when you get on the throttle it accelerates briskly.

[@inflatable2]

375~385bhp? A stock 35is produces 335bhp, so I presume this one is chipped..? About the comfort, I'm fine with the OEM 296 19" rims and Bridgestone RFT tires (225/255) for now.. I might change to regular tires when these are worn, but changing the rims as well is not worth it for me I think.. I'm also not a fan of non-OEM wheels on cars like this.. The 296's were the most expensive rims you could get on the E89 Z4 and mine are still as good as new.. I like the OEM 18" 325M's as well, so if I'm ever changing the rims I'll probably pick those as a replacement (and then sell the 296's).. No idea about their weight..

[@Techathy]

On the stock map mine, the car reviewed, kicks out around 320whp, this is on two different dynos, so either this car has the most efficient gearbox & diff known to man or it's producing north of 370 bhp. Looks wise the BMW wheels are nice, however none of the options are especially strong and they're not light weight either. The BMW specs for the wheel weight seem to be plucked out of thin air. The 295 weigh 3kg more than BMW's book weight, this makes one of those OZ rear wheels with tyre & TPMS sensor a touch lighter than a bare front 295 wheel.

[@TheNiters]

They advertise it as 340hp, but it puts out more in practice when you smash it. In any gear other than first and S / S+, it has an overboost features when and full throttle, that increases the max boost pressure for up to 7 seconds, this is not accounted for in the 340hp.

[@inflatable2]

I thought the overboost function was part of the HP gain of the iS over the regular 35i? I wonder how much my 30i NA puts out in reality, BMW rates it at 258 HP..

[@davidmorrow4195]

As a Z4M car owner they are very different and depends on what you want. Hard top convertible, automatic, hundreds of pounds heavier, no high rpm NA engine, soft, guess which one we are talking about.

[@WSKRBSCT]

Go easy there. The E89 35is is just over 100 lbs heavier than the E85 M Coupe, which cannot retract its top, gives up over 100 ft-lbs of torque at peak (much, much more down low - so don't get caught sleeping ;) ), and much more easily and economically tunable engine than the S52. And, the only time it is an automatic is when it is left in that mode. With respect to the soft part, I would agree somewhat. I think the choice of wheel and tires played a big part in his assessment. Pretty sure those are 18" which have more sidewall than the 19" that can be spec'd and the Eagle F1 Asymmetric is no Pilot Sport 4 S, not even close. But, that would explain the slop he was feeling (daily driving an Evora does not help, either). It is also possible that the driver kept run flats on his car - that makes a huge difference. RFTs on any BMW I have had practically knock your fillings out - even the Dunlop Direzza ZII Star Specs and Bridgestone RE-11s I have put on those cars were more compliant and handled worlds better. Heck, BMW's RFTs are a much harsher ride than my Elise with Yoko Advan Neova AD07s.

[@nikolaucznaum4312]

When you are scrubbed up and shiny, one thing is for sure. Everyone else is looking at the Z4, also those who pretend they are not looking