The BMW Z4 M doesn’t exist, but we think it should

More than two decades ago a team of BMW engineers began an after-hours project to transform its handsome but dynamically shaky Z3 roadster into a serious performance coupe – looks be damned!

What they created was the Z3 M Coupe, a car with the performance credentials to remain a cult classic to this day despite its controversial styling and unfortunate ‘clown shoe’ nickname.

First released in 2019, the current Z4 finds itself in a surprisingly similar position as the E37 Z3. It’s handsome, and well-liked by those wanting a pleasant roofless driving experience. But public perception deems it dynamically inferior to its non-identical twin from Japan, the Toyota Supra. That judgement is somewhat short sighted, but the solution that was found in 1998 could work again today.

Enter the BMW Z4 M Coupe – a shooting brake performance halo that could help elevate the entire roadster family and bring BMW’s M Division to its unhinged and brilliant best. We know from the execution of the current M3 and M4 that BMW’s designers are willing to take bold risks, so our stylistic vision shouldn’t be too far out of their comfort zone.

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With the Toyota Supra filling the swoopy coupe styling position already, BMW would need a divergent visual path to give the Z4 M its own unique positioning. Instead of a swooping roofline, Australian Calvin Luk’s design would be updated with a squared-off wagon rear end.

Along with the ‘bread van’ looks, BMW’s M division will give the Z4 a suitable nip’n’tuck with carbon fibre front lip, side skirts and rear diffuser. Quad exhaust tips anchor the rear bumper styling to drive home the point that the Z4 M should not be underestimated.

M boss Markus Flasch says that the Z4 M40i already offers M-car levels of performance, and a track test by German outlet Sport Auto confirmed that the roadster is two seconds a lap quicker around the Nordschleife than even the esteemed M2.

But there’s no reason to be content with that – time to aim higher Mr Flasch! To earn its full-fat M badge, the Z4 could gain the S58 drivetrain from the current M3/M4, lifting outputs by 90kW/150Nm to 375kW and 650Nm.

With a kerb weight around the 1500kg mark, the Z4 will appeal to those wanting a finer scalpel than that offered by the M3, but with more firepower than the M2 CS. In order to make the twin-turbo 3.0-litre straight six fit, an all-wheel xDrive layout is off the cards – but we doubt enthusiasts will be too displeased.

Read on to discover the finer details of how we’d make it all work.

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Along with the ‘bread van’ looks, BMW’s M division will give the Z4 a suitable nip’n’tuck with carbon fibre front lip, side skirts and rear diffuser.

Step 1: For the nutters

Being an altogether smaller, lighter, and nimbler package compared to the M3, and having more interior space than the M2, a Z4 M would be perfect for track day fans. Much like Porsche’s iconic Weissach package, BMW could offer a track-focused option that includes Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tyres, carbon-ceramic brakes, bucket seats, fire extinguisher, five-point racing harness and half cage straight from the factory.

Step 2: Lifestyle options

Track days not really your thing? No worries. Additional options would include roof racks for ski and bike gear. Due to the shooting brake styling the Z4 M will offer a skerrick of practicality. Paint it red and become the world’s fastest postie.

Step 3: The Japanese twin

A Z4 M would immediately open the door for a more focused GR version of the Toyota Supra. As with the original product planning, a joint endeavour will reduce costs and help give enthusiasts two compelling options in one go.

Step 4: That tracks

With extra power comes greater responsibility. Z4 M will have a wider track front and rear, along with extra tyre width, compared to M40i versions. Extra torsional rigidity of the hard roof should make the Z4 M a potent corner carving weapon.

Step 5: One last dance

Since the start of 2019 only two manual Z4s have been sold in Australia. However, the Venn diagram of buyers wanting a two-door M coupe and those desiring roadster chic styling are two different circles. As a result, three pedals could be back on the menu, alongside the conventional eight-speed auto.

Want to play fantasy product planner with us? Send your best ideas to MOTOR@aremedia.com.au