"Tossability"... Z4 vs Z3

[gmushial]

Drove an M5 this last weekend, and was impressive, especially in a steady-state corner - the grip was impressive, very impressive. But it entirely lacked the tuck-in rate that I'm so used to in a Z3... and I'm assuming most of this has to do with simple physics, ie, the huge weight difference between the two... I'm wondering for those that have spent time with both a Z3 and Z4: the 4 is heavier, and as such, how much of that quick tuck in is lost? Or does the stiffer body actually improve such?

[Knowthebattle]

I went from a 1.9 Z3 with a combined koni/H&R suspension to a 3.0 Z4. Yes it's faster, and handles just as well. I'm not a good example.

[gmushial]

I went from a 1.9 Z3 with a combined koni/H&R suspension to a 3.0 Z4. Yes it's faster, and handles just as well. I'm not a good example.

But at least you've spent time in both... did you get the 1.9 before the suspension upgrade? and the Z4 is still unmodified? I'd be curious about your comments: your "handles just as well" is that comparing the upgraded Z3 to the stock Z4?... if so: that would be most interesting... might decide me in favor of the 4 vs another 3... please pontificate (or at least share more of your observations) :-) thanks.

[Outrider]

I just saw the related post on the Z3 forum.

I've got a 2000 Z3 Coupe and a 2007 Z4 Coupe. Lucky am I to have such first world problems.

The things I've noticed as differences really aren't about "tossibility" per se. Both turn very, very well.

The Z4 steering is fidgety on the highway. It's an early generation of electrical steering and I don't think they did a great job sorting out the feedback system. It seems like it's always hunting for center. I have a VW wagon with electric steering that has no such problems.

The only time I'm aware of the Z3 running into steering issues is at full lock where it lets you know that it's hydraulic and that you've reached the stops. I consider that to be good, not bad.

My Z4 has the stock sports suspension option and the Z3 has what seems to be its original springs and shocks. I'd say that the Z4 is a little smoother suspension-wise. I'm not certain how the open diff on the Z4 plays into the equation, but the Z3 has LSD, IIRC.

So what do I notice?

I like the driving position in the Z3 better than the Z4. You sit up higher relative to the hood in front of you and, at least in my case, slightly farther forward of the rear wheels.

The visibility in the Z3 is much, much better than the visibility in the Z4. I have a self-inflicted wound here in that my Z4 is tinted just at the legal limit. The tint on the back window may soon come off because visibility out the back is so abysmal. The Z3 has similar tint, but dissimilar problems because the side and rear visibility is so much better than what the Z4 h to begin with.

Power. M52 vs N52. So 190 hp vs 255 hp. More importantly, though, is that both are tuned well for torque. If you decide to race them, at least in a straight line, expect the Z4 to lead the Z3. In safe highway conditions, my son (in the Z3) gave me (in the Z4) the opportunity to test this out by trying to zip past me as we were rejoining the highway from a dead stop. I was unable to resist the challenge of responding after being caught unaware. The Z4 is more the faster car than I the better driver.

[gmushial]

I just saw the related post on the Z3 forum.

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Many thanks - these were exactly the type of comments I was needing / looking for.