The new BMW Z4 Coupe was developed as an 'unofficial' special project by BMW's design team during the development process of the Z4 Roadster. Once the Coupe got the green light for production in 2005, it was then a relatively simple task to integrate it with the underpinnings of the new Roadster. The Z4's dynamic chassis and unique engine technology combine successfully with the new Coupe package. The addition of the Coupe's exceptionally rigid body shell ensures that the new fixed-head offers unsurpassed levels of traction and agility for the 'ultimate' driving experience. 

- High-performance GT with hatch-style boot.
- Precise and agile handling thanks to a body torsional rigidity of 32,000Nm/degree.
- 3.0-litre engine in the Z4 3.0si Coupe is the lightest volume-production six-cylinder engine in the world. Manufactured from magnesium-alloy.
- Z4 M Coupe features the 3.2-litre multi-award winning engine and BMW M's Variable M differential.
- Braking system and suspension components from the M3 CSL are standard in the Z4 M Coupe.

*From the summer of 2003, BMW has launched brand-new derivatives of 1 Series, 3 Series Saloon, 3 Series Touring, 5 Series Saloon, 5 Series Touring, 6 Series Coupe, 6 Series Convertible and X3


Design

"The new BMW Z4 Coupe is best described as a Pocket GT," said Adrian van Hooydonk, Head of BMW Brand Design. "The Z4 Coupe should be considered as a fully fledged GT car that has been shrink-wrapped around two people. It represents the smallest possible package that can accommodate the occupants and enough luggage for a long journey while still retaining the strong, muscular stance of the cutting-edge Z4 Roadster."

"The Coupe was actually designed at the same time as the original Z4 Roadster in the late 1990s, but BMW's hugely successful launch of new models in recent years left some of the more niche models on the drawing board. My design team and I pushed for this car and now my dream has come true. Designing the two Z4 models simultaneously ensured that both share a common design theme and a cohesive design language," he concluded.


Front, back and sides

From the front, the only visual difference from the Roadster is the 'double bubble' contoured roof. This serves as an aerodynamic aid as well as offering additional headroom to taller occupants. The side view is identical to the profile of the Roadster from the front bumper back to the A-pillar and for the full length of the car below the shoulder line. Above this, the gently sloping Coupe roofline culminates at the rear of the car with a subtle aerodynamic lip spoiler.

From the rear, the Coupe shares the same new rear lamp clusters as those introduced on the Roadster in early 2006. Light conductor rods are fitted, which illuminate a split-second earlier than conventional bulbs. The light units sit on each side of the large clamshell hatchback lid that covers the 340-litre boot - easily enough to stow the luggage for a weekend away. 

BMW Motorsport's Z4 M Coupe takes the Pocket GT design and adds a distinctive sporting edge. A lower front valance with large air intakes dominates the frontal view. The power bulge in the bonnet, created by two sharp front-to-rear crease lines, also highlights the potential of the high-performance M variant. From the rear, similar high performance traits are exhibited. BMW M's trademark four exhaust tailpipes protrude from an aerodynamic rear diffuser that ensures the car stays firmly planted on the road. In profile, the Z4 M Coupe shares the lightweight five-spoke alloy wheel design with the Roadster and they clearly display the M3 CSL braking system behind (only on the M derivative).


High-performance Drivetrain

The launch of the new Z4 Coupe offers UK customers a new BMW engine / model definition. It is the first time that a roadster-based Coupe has been offered with a 3.0-litre engine alongside the high-performance M Coupe derivative.

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