LIKE many BMWs of late, the Z4 roadster polarised opinions when it was launched with its complex but tantalising ‘flame-surface’ design language, questionable run-flat tyres and electric steering. Many believed the Z4 to be a hairdresser’s trade-up of the old Z3. Roll out the Z4 coupe, a stiffer, harder-edged stablemate which is arguably sexier, certainly tougher, and cheaper than its soft-top twin. With a hatch-style rear opening and decent boot space, the Z4 coupe is also more of a ‘pocket grand tourer’ than the storage-compromising Roadster. Of course, sharing the same DNA unfortunately means sharing the same bad genes too.

BMW Z3 Coupe
Released: 1998
Ended: 2002
Family Tree: Z4Sold only in M guise in Australia and powered by the revered 236kW 3.2-litre inline six-cylinder from the E36 M3 Coupe and Z3 Roadster, the Z3 coupe was available in various overseas markets with a 144kW 2.8-litre six from 1998 to 2000 and a 172kW 3.0-litre from 2000 to 2002. Like the Z4 coupe of today, the Z3 coupe was a stiffer, better-handling, driver-focused two-seater than its fabric-roofed sibling. Despite its quirky looks (nicknamed a ‘bread van’ and ‘munster mobile’) the Z3 coupe – especially in M form – had a narrow, but hardcore following.
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