2006 BMW Z4 M Roadster Preview

Over the past few years, one might get the impression that BMW has been dissing the buying public. There was the Bangle-ized redesign of the 7 Series, which garnered a tremendous amount of negative attention and calls for a return to more conservative styling. BMW soldiered on unabated, and actually rolled out the tiered, bubble-butt look to other cars in its lineup. And then there’s iDrive, another BMW creation that resulted in more thumbs down than a nursing home bikini contest. Finally, the M line took a hit when the Z3 gave way to the Z4, and BMW seemed to be oblivious to the cries of new-car-buying enthusiasts. Well, friends, your words and tears have apparently made their way to Munich. The polarizing styling has been massaged to be more palatable, to the point that it’s mimicked by everyone from Hyundai to Lexus. IDrive still exists, though has been somewhat simplified for us, the ignorant masses. And car guys and gals will get their wish, as the M line will soon be bolstered by three new vehicles, one of which is the 2006 Z4 M Roadster, a 330-horsepower soft-top that aims to fulfill its duty as the Ultimate Driving Machine.

What it is

Based on the updated 2006 BMW Z4 convertible, the M Roadster is a two-passenger performance car for enthusiasts who not only like driving with the top down, but enjoy doing so quickly while in complete control. To that end, the 2006 M Roadster comes equipped with a 330-horsepower engine, a speed-sensitive locking differential, high-performance brakes, and advanced technology like Brake Drying, Brake Standby, and Brake Fade Compensation.

Why it matters

Calling your products the Ultimate Driving Machines requires constant innovation, cutting edge design, and unbeatable performance. If you can’t have all three, you should at least offer the best overall package, and that’s where the 2006 BMW M Roadster will likely shine. When it hits the market this spring, this little Bimmer, priced at nearly $52,000, will face stiff competition including the redesigned 2005 Chevrolet Corvette Convertible, a model that offers more power and space for a comparable price. In contrast, the M Roadster delivers its own brand of styling in a tight package, plenty of power for its diminutive size, and the cachet associated with upscale BMW brand. The Bavarian Motor Werks company thrives on a lineup of uniquely styled vehicles that engage the driver – the M Roadster should fit in quite well.

What’s under the hood

Power for the 2006 BMW Z4 M Roadster comes from a 3.2-liter, 24-valve, dual overhead cam, inline six-cylinder engine that generates 330 horsepower. Managing that output is a standard six-speed manual transmission or an optional six-speed Steptronic automatic with steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters. This powertrain allows the M Roadster to hit 60 mph in only 4.9 seconds, with an electronically-governed top speed of 155 mph.

What’s inside

BMW’s M cars are more about performance than luxury, so while the interiors are nicely appointed, the real focus is on the powertrain and the driving dynamics. Nevertheless, the $51,995 sticker price buys a two-passenger cabin with leather bucket seats, three distinct trim offerings, and M-specific items like the steering wheel, shift knob, and plated pearlescent chrome on dash buttons and door handles. Navigation and upgraded sound systems are available.

What it looks like

The 2006 BMW Z4 Roadster, on which the M is based, has been updated with a revised front fascia, new fog lights, and redesigned taillights. As a means of distinction, the 2006 M Roadster adds a front spoiler and larger air inlets, a more sculpted hood, and unique 18-inch alloy wheels. The rear perspective is enhanced with quad tailpipes and a diffuser.

What we think

With 330 horsepower on tap, countless safety and control features behind the scenes, contemporary styling, and a focus on satisfying the true driving enthusiast, the 2006 BMW Z4 M Roadster promises to be a real treat for those who enjoy clipping apexes on twisty mountain roads. However, in the area of value the M Roadster faces fierce competition with the 400-horsepower Chevy Corvette, and in the not-too-distant future, the Ford Mustang Shelby GT500 Convertible. Both are remarkable cars, yet, admittedly, neither bear the enviable BMW badge, and that fact alone may sway numerous buyers to the drop-top Bimmer.

When you can buy it

Priced at $51,995, the 2006 BMW Z4 M Roadster, more commonly known as simply the M Roadster, will arrive at your local dealer during the first half of 2006, just in time for some cool spring cruises and warm summer roadtrips.

Photos courtesy of BMW