The 2024 Bmw Z4 M40i, especially when draped in Thundernight Metallic and equipped with the Handschalter six-speed manual transmission, is more than just a beautiful roadster; it’s a statement. Having recently spent time behind the wheel of this machine, experiencing the joy of open-top driving in the crisp fall air, one question persistently surfaces: why does the Z4 feel like the definitively superior sports car compared to its close relative, the Toyota GR Supra?
My affinity for the Z4 is not new. Since its 2020 launch, I’ve had the pleasure of experiencing it in both inline-six and four-cylinder guises. Previously, I even articulated why I found myself gravitating towards the BMW Z4 over the then-new Toyota Supra, a sentiment that time has only reinforced.
Interestingly, the initial buzz surrounding the shared platform, engines, and transmissions of the Supra and Z4 seems to have faded. Both cars have successfully carved out distinct identities in the market. Yet, revisiting the Z4 reaffirms my conviction: it holds a compelling edge over its Japanese counterpart. Here’s a deeper dive into why the 2024 BMW Z4 continues to reign supreme in this comparison.
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The Allure of a True BMW Engine Experience
The most fundamental reason to favor the 2024 BMW Z4 boils down to this: if you’re embracing BMW’s acclaimed B58 engine, why not opt for the complete BMW experience? Let’s be clear, the Toyota Supra is an exceptional sports car, visually striking and undeniably capable. However, at its core, it’s running BMW DNA.
The B58, a 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six, is a masterpiece of BMW engineering. In the Z4 M40i, it unleashes a potent 382 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque. Even with the engaging six-speed manual transmission, this roadster achieves 0 to 60 mph in the low four-second range – a testament to its raw power and refined delivery.
Another compelling advantage of the 2024 BMW Z4 is the continued availability of the 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, producing 255 hp and 295 lb-ft of torque. Notably, this engine option is no longer offered in the Supra for 2025. For purists who prioritize balanced chassis dynamics and optimal weight distribution over outright acceleration, the lighter four-cylinder Z4 is an ideal choice. It’s a shame that BMW doesn’t offer this configuration with a manual gearbox, but it remains a compelling entry point into the Z4 lineup.
The Convertible Edge and Enhanced Liveability of the 2024 BMW Z4
As driving enthusiasts mature, the allure of a convertible sports car becomes increasingly undeniable. This is another significant factor tilting the scales in favor of the 2024 BMW Z4 over the Supra. The sensation of lowering the top and immersing oneself in the open air is a unique and invigorating experience, especially on pleasant days.
Lowering the roof in the 2024 BMW Z4 also enhances the auditory experience, allowing a more direct appreciation of the B58 engine’s soundtrack. While some engine sounds are digitally augmented through the audio system, the unfiltered exhaust note becomes more prominent with the top down, amplifying the thrill of driving.
Beyond the open-top enjoyment, the 2024 BMW Z4 offers superior daily usability compared to the GR Supra, primarily due to its versatile drive modes. While the Supra provides a single, Toyota-tuned Sport mode, the Z4 offers a spectrum of driving experiences with Sport, Comfort, and Eco Pro modes. This range allows for greater adaptability, making the Z4 more refined and manageable for everyday driving scenarios. Furthermore, the Supra is known for considerable wind buffeting when the windows are down. The Z4 effectively eliminates this issue, even with the top retracted, contributing to a more comfortable and enjoyable ride.
While the base four-cylinder 2024 BMW Z4 aligns in price with the base inline-six Toyota Supra, opting for the Z4 M40i does represent a price increase compared to a fully-equipped Toyota GR Supra Premium. Factoring in BMW’s often pricey optional packages, the Z4 can become a more substantial investment. The BMW badge carries a premium, but ultimately, with the 2024 BMW Z4, you are arguably getting a more complete and compelling sports car experience for your money, especially when considering its unique blend of performance, open-top driving pleasure, and everyday practicality.
