[zetaxi165]

My 335 was in the shop for more than a week. Went in with the dreaded fuel pump malfunction. Fuel pump was replaced but the problem persisted. So they changed a high pressure hose as well and it appears to be running fine.

They had provided me with a '07 Z4 2.5 as a loaner. That car was driven like I stole it.

I know comparing a Z4 and a 335 is like comparing apples and oranges but here are a few points:

Z4 - noisy lil machine. The 2.5 rumbled away pretty loudly (especially in sport mode). Felt like a bit of a ricer at times. The sheer loudness of the 2.5 reminded me of a souped up civic.

The z4 handled like it was on rails. While I think the 335 could hang with it (upto some extent), the Z4 was more confidence-inspiring. Its steering was light at low speeds and tightened up the faster one went. The 335 on the other hand is pretty heavy handed at slow speeds (especially upon start up) and considerably lighter at speed. The z4 was essentially a big go-kart.

The z4 got more looks than the 335 ever did. Of course being a soft top sports car helps. But seriously didnt think people would stare at a hairdresser's car this much. One of the reasons I bought the e92 is for its subtle styling but is it a little too subtle???

Finally the Z4 2.5 is a bit overrated. I got burned by quite a few hot hatches. And beyond 80mph it didn't accelerate too quick.

The 335 in comparison is just effortless. The steering feel might not be as good as a z4 but it is easier on you. Ride quality is brilliant especially considering that I have the 19" wheels with the sports package. And the sheer versatility of this car leaves me astounded. A gentle highway cruiser one minute and slip it into M or DS and you unleash a beast.

Taking the long route home tonight :rocks:

[danielt]

great comments. the 335 appears a totally different car when in standard drive mode compared to sports mode. Plus it seems to have a different exhaust note also in sport VS standard drive mode. Drop it down to M1 from a start and just give it the tiniest bit of right foot and it springs to life!!

[zetaxi165]

Wanted to add, the brakes on the 335 are a million times better than the Z4.

They are some of the most grabby brakes I have ever experienced.

[E90330iS]

Great comparison! The Z4s are one of the best handlers though!

[VIDoug]

Well ... when I go for a drive I choose between my 335i coupe or my Z4 3.0 sport roadster.

The 335i is a powerful, smooth, luxurious and fast cruiser. The massive torque is fabulous. My Z4 is a sports car. It's noisier, not as fast, finds its power after 4500 rpm. It's really nimble and out handles and out brakes the 600 lb. heavier coupe. It's more fun in the twisties.

At the end of the day, the 335i is a much better "all round" car and provides more value for the money.

You would have noticed a big power difference between the Z4 2.5 you drove and the Z4 3.0. The 3.0 does 0-60 in ~5.5 secs. ... so not too slow. Also I don't have any issue with the brakes.

[SapphireBlackG01]

Was this in the US?

Gonna go ahead and just assume this was in Dubai.

Regardless, the Z4 will run circles around any 3-Series on the right, tight track.

[zetaxi165]

Totally agree, the Z4 is better in the twisties. And I can see the appeal of it. And it is a great car in its own right.

And yes this was in Dubai.

And oh Yeah the engine fault light just came on today. So I guess the fuel pump aint working too well again. So back to the shop. I wonder what the loaner will be this time?

[AGIO_330i]

They have hatches in Dubai?

[teknochild]

z4 w/ n54

/drool

better yet, z4 w/ the new m3 v8 (it would totally fit! and the weight would be fine too)