September 13, 2005 The Frankfurt Motor Show began yesterday and despite months of previews and first glimpses of the production debuts and concept releases, there were still a few show cars we hadn’t seen. One of the highest profile surprises of the day was from BMW, which re-ignited a passion for closed-roof sportscars with its show-stopping Z4 Coupé Concept Car. Based around the architecture of the fast-paced BMW Roadster, the sleek and eye-catching two-seater delivers the first ever look at a fixed roof Z4.
With a steeply raked tailgate designed into the rear styling of the Roadster, the Z4 Coupé Concept Car adds a new dimension to motoring.
The bold, modern flame surface design language is extended even further with the fixed roof incorporating a dual dome reminiscent of traditional sportscars.
The flowing roofline accentuates the sporting look and character of the Coupé bringing the focus to the rear wheels and giving the car the appearance of a beast ready to spring into action at any moment. The centre of gravity moves much closer to the rear axle.
The large rear window sweeps deep into the tailgate accentuating the wheel arches and creating a powerful muscular impression.
As with the 6 Series, the large centrally mounted BMW badge serves as tailgate opener and handle. New lights and large exhaust pipes complete the transformation of the rear.
Low, fast and elegant, the BMW Z4 Coupé Concept Car is devoid of add-on aerodynamic aids, having a neatly fared-in rear spoiler moulded within the tailgate sheet metal.
A character line extends from the tailgate along the rear side windows merging into the sill line to reinforce the typically BMW Hofmeister Kick.
Under the long, flat wide bonnet, lies the latest generation VALVETRONIC equipped 3.0-litre magnesium alloy six-cylinder producing 195 kW at 6,650 rpm and 315 Nm of torque between 2,500 rpm and 4,000 rpm.
Powered by this new generation engine, which is the lightest and most powerful in its class, the Z4 Coupé Concept Car can move from rest to 100 km/h in just 5.7 seconds, with an electronically limited top speed of 250 km/h.
The Z4 Coupé Concept Car benefits from a shorter final drive compared with the Z4 Roadster for an even sharper on-road response.
By adding a roof and tailgate, the already strong stiff body becomes even more stable, allowing the Z4 Coupé Concept Car to deliver authentic sportscar handling and driving dynamics that will rate among the best in class.
Luggage capacity is not forgotten with a large, deep well able to swallow not one but two golf bags.
The BMW Z4 Coupé Concept Car is finished in a unique Glacier Silver colour that has a silky glossiness of sculpted aluminium.
At each corner, bespoke 19-inch diameter, 8-inch wide light aluminium wheels are deliberately finished in a darker shade to contrast with the exterior coachwork. The triple spoke design gives a three-dimensional visual effect.
Inside, the Z4 Coupé Concept Car features a contrasting theme rendered in an inviting, elegant and modern way to accentuate the dynamism of the exterior design.
Matt and glossy surfaces combine with exposed aluminium giving a technical feel; though the warm caramel leather trim softens the appearance.
The contrasts continue with glossy leather and woven leather highlights combining with silky Nubuk leather. Aluminium pedals and a left footrest feature unique hard-wearing leather inserts, accents repeated in the luggage compartment.
The BMW Z4 Coupé Concept Car addresses the needs of sporting drivers who enjoy a zesty blast all year round. By mixing a unique, breath-taking design, the latest in a long line of superlative BMW six cylinder in-line engines and the cool yet welcoming cabin, the imaginative BMW Z4 Coupé Concept Car is sure to be the talk of the Frankfurt Motor Show.
