A small, two-door convertible is always going to a bit of a special car. After all, it takes a bold individual to buy one - you're conceding practicality and everyday liveability, while also inevitably inviting judgement from other road users and bystanders.

But perhaps, it's the inherent impracticality and different-ness of a roadster that defines its appeal. This is precisely what sets it apart from the mass of other cars on the road, and makes it something rather special.


The new BMW Z4, then. How special is it?

The good news

We've already driven this exact Z4 M40i model, and the overall impressions are good.

Without wanting to repeat ourselves too much, it's a car that excels in many areas. It looks good and will attract stares everywhere you go. The cabin is high-class and high-tech. And on the road, it delivers plenty of power, while also having outstanding road-handling capabilities.


We have gripes with the car (the steering wheel is too thick, the engine arguably too powerful and it's not particularly light), but overall it's a stellar roadster package with plenty of appeal.

The important questions

The more pertinent question, then, should be this - if you're in the market for a sub-$400,000, small, two-door sportscar, should you buy the Z4?


Admittedly, the Z4 doesn't have the same badge clout as the Porsche 718 Boxster. It's arguably too powerful, so you can't wring it out the same way you can a Mazda MX-5. And it also doesn't have the aural drama of a Jaguar F-TYPE.

What other options do you have? Audi TT? No longer sold in Singapore. Mercedes-Benz SLC? Meh, that's a mighty underwhelming roadster. Toyota Supra? Haven't driven it yet. And you know the whole hoo-ha about both being effectively the same car. 


If you wanted something wholeheartedly unique and special, something that truly encapsulates the philosophy of lightness and sporty delight, we'd recommend the Alpine A110 in a heartbeat.

Who's loving you?

So, does that mean you shouldn't buy a Z4? No, we're not saying that.


See, the Z4 still has its particular kind of appeal. It's got the BMW badge recognition without saying 'poor man's 911' (Boxster, looking at you). It's got more than twice the power of the MX-5. It's a ton more refined and sensible to drive daily than an F-TYPE. And, has anyone actually heard about the Alpine?

So, as you can see, it's easy to understand why people will still be drawn to the Z4. It's a highly competent car that is much more well-rounded than its competitors. Yes, perhaps it doesn't sparkle in any one specific way, and may be lacking in that elusive 'specialness'. But, compared to the competition, it's arguably the best all-around package.


And perhaps, most importantly, there's no denying that sitting behind the wheel of the Z4 driving down Shenton Way with people shooting glances our way made us feel quite special. It's precisely this ability to make you feel special that defines a roadster, no?