Test drove a 35

[csmith319]

Drove a 35 yesterday - had a good thrash in it, was on the 18" split rims. My opinion:

- Fast, but not 'oh my god' so
- Interior very very nice, but there were a couple of squeaks around from the centre console
- It had some odd handling traits at high speed (90ish) changing lanes (felt a bit 'floaty' - wasn't sure what the car was really doing under me)
- Very slight soft throttle at high speed (dealer said yes, all 35's (135, 335) are like that due to the large turbo
- Roof was superb (Yes, I agree it takes boot space away), stowed very quickly (even though its supposed to be twice as long as the old Z4)
- Ride was better than my wife's 3 series!
- Dealer said (without any promting) that he would 'do a deal' if I wanted one
- The torque from the ngine meant that there was always performance, but I never felt like I knew where the engine was without looking at the revcounter, the feeling is the same throughout the whole rev range
- Very, very secure handling

In summary, I thought it was a great car - much better than say an SLK, but not for me I think.

 

[Andy]

Good review.. interesting points.

Out of interest, have you ever driven an /M? Wondered if you thought that was "oh my god" fast..

 

[Wondermike]

Yep a good review, interesting that you say it isn't hugely fast, because in reality it has pretty huge straight line speed, 0-100 in 12 secs is awesomely fast (supercars excepted). Usually turbo engines have a good kick to them as well. Hmmm, might have to arrange a good thrashing of one.

 

[csmith319]

For me it the was the power delivery, not necessarily the actual performance. Cars that have made me think they're were 'oh my god fast' were an M5 (current version) and a 911 C4S (996 with the power kit) - but I think they were much more because of the immediacy of the delivery rather than the actual performance (although that of course was a factor).

The 35 engine gave this overwhelming sensation of a broad power band that didn't really relent, but didn't rise into a peak - so yes, it was notably faster than my 3.0Si, but didn't feel quite as exciting in the process. Some will prefer that, and I can appreciate that perspective. There isn't really a discernable 'kick' because of the 2 turbos I think - so just usable power all the time.

Maybe I should rephrase - "Very fast, but doesn't necessarily feel as fast as it is".

Have I driven a Z4M - no, but I really want to - it's likely to be what I upgrade to unless a house move overrides car playing, which is looking more and more likely at the moment. But actually, I tend to keep my cars for a long time, so I've only had my Z4 for 6 months so I can see myself with it for another 4 years or so in reality.

 

[sniry]

nice review, thanks.
reading review after review i am starting to think my next car wont be the new Z4. driving a 08 3.0si at the moment, i wanted a roadster sports car with power (money wasnt the question, where i come from the 3.0si is a 125000 $ car which you get for little less in selfe import, could find an M in the same price or bit more) but tought 265 HP would be enough to start with (my first proper sport car..).
i fall in love with bimmers, but for the next car it couldnt be the Z4 which is based on 3 series and reviews are not so supportive in the "real sports car" method. i think if it will be a bimmer it must be M3 coupe for me. for a tow seater there is no other way in those prices than going for cayman or boxster S.

 

[sammyz]

I drove the 35i last month at a BMW day at Oulton Park. I'd tend to agree with you. On the road I was underwhelmed by the engine and the DCT gearbox. Interestingly, my mate drove it also and he has a 335i convert M sport so it was interesting for him as it was the same engine. He felt it was slightly better handling than his 335i but didn't feel any quicker.

However, coming from the Z4M most other mainstream sports cars will seem either a little dull or not particularly faster.We drove an M3 while we were there and while it was good it didn't really shock me with it's extra speed.

I do think it's a great package with stunning looks, great interior and performance to satisfy 90% of people. I would like to drive a 23i manual to see if the lighter car turns out to be the better buy.