2004 BMW Z4 3.0i Road Test

Trembling? Well maybe that's going a bit too far as my top-of-the-line Z4's 3.0-liter inline-six was only capable of zero to

The Z4's 225-hp can send it from 0 to 100 km/h in 6.3 seconds, but with its low ride and drop top it feels faster. (Photo: Rob Rothwell, Canadian Auto Press)

100 km/h (0-62-mph) in 6.3 seconds, but being so close to the ground with the air rushing through my hair made it feel so much faster than the 745Li I just recently tested, even though it's not. Its engine makes 225-horsepower at 5,900-rpm and 214 pounds-per-foot of torque at a modest 3,500-rpm, which is not particularly impressive next to a 350Z Roadster, for instance, but the power is adequate enough especially considering the Z4's svelte curb weight of 1,360 kg (2,998 lbs). The inline-6 is smooth though, and features BMW's double-VANOS variable valve timing technology, which translated means soul stirring torque throughout the rev range. Anyone familiar with the refined, athletic characteristics of modern, inline 6-cylinder Bimmer powerplants will understand firsthand the sensory pleasures they

BMW's outstanding 6-speed manual transmission was never vague or indecisive in its actuation. (Photo: Rob Rothwell, Canadian Auto Press)

can evoke, revving smoothly without constriction, all the while producing a spine tingling exhaust note.

My Sapphire Black tester featured BMW's outstanding 6-speed manual transmission, fortunately. Although not comprising the shortest throws in the industry, its shifter was never vague or indecisive in its actuation. Each gear clicked into place with a sharply focused notch that never left me confused about whether the cog was fully engaged or not. In typical BMW fashion, the roadster's drivetrain was tight, developing no unnecessary driveline slap or clunk. That sense of mechanical precision extended to the clutch as well. Its operation, though long in pedal travel, was smooth and progressive, requiring moderate effort to pump. Engagement came late in the pedal's release, but not unexpectedly so.