The athletic potential of the BMW Z4 (G29) isn't just measured in tenths of a second, but primarily in driving pleasure. However, it's clear that the powers-that-be in Munich never fully unleashed the roadster. The top-tier Z4 M40i model consistently offered "only" 335 horsepower (hp) throughout its lifespan. Despite persistent rumors of a high-performance version featuring the S58 M-series six-cylinder engine and a wider track, fans ultimately waited in vain for a halo model above the M40i. While the "Edition Pure Impulse" did introduce a Z4 M40i with a manual transmission, its focus was undeniably on driving enjoyment rather than achieving faster lap times.
What can be extracted from the BMW Z4 with relatively manageable effort is now demonstrated not by BMW M GmbH, but by the Toyota GR Supra Final Edition. In a *Sport Auto* "Supertest," Christian Gebhardt piloted the G29-based sports coupe around the Nürburgring Nordschleife in just 7 minutes, 38.75 seconds. Just like in the Z4 M40i, the Supra utilizes BMW's 3.0-liter B58 inline-six engine. However, in the Final Edition, it's allowed to flex its muscles with a substantial 435 hp and 421 lb-ft of torque.
Christian Gebhardt had previously achieved a lap time of 7 minutes, 55.41 seconds with the BMW Z4 M40i, even before its official unveiling, when it was still partially covered in camouflage wrap. Compared to the Toyota GR Supra tested now, the Z4 at that time was not only lacking nearly 100 hp, a more potent braking system, and the sharper KW suspension setup found in the Final Edition, but also comparably aggressive tires. While the Z4 ran its lap on Michelin Pilot Super Sport tires, the sharper A90 wore Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2s. Without a doubt: with comparable ingredients, a reissue of the unforgettable BMW Z4 M Roadster would have been an extremely interesting proposition.
View Price on AmazonRegardless of potential performance upgrades, the Supra also consistently serves as a reminder of how good a G29-based BMW Z4 Coupe could look. With significant effort, such a project can be realized, as impressively demonstrated by the "Toyota Zupra" conversion celebrated at SEMA.
Current designs of a BMW Z4 in "Neue Klasse" styling offer a glimpse into how sharp a G29 successor could appear in the coming years. Unfortunately, there are no indications of such plans yet.
The following video shows the Z4 M40i's onboard lap from 2018:
Source: bimmertoday.de
