2003 BMW Z4 versus 2012 370Z

Troyz

Just a quick comparison since I recently owned a BMW Z4:
2003 BMW Z4 2.5 i6 versus 2012 370z (Both cars had the sports package and manual)

Acceleration: While the Z4 was much slower it was much smoother even up the red line. The 370Z feels coarse and unbalanced. The power in 370Z always makes me smile. I wished I got the 3.0 BMW but I don’t think it would have been able to touch the 370Z.

Braking: Both braked well. 370Z steering wheel shakes when light braking.

Routine Handling 30-50MPH: The Z4 wins. I think being narrow and more balanced it feels like a lighter car when it isn't. 370Z does not respond as quick to driver input.

Emergency Lane Change: 370Z feels heavier the way the steering wheel is set up. The Z4 is more responsive and seemed quicker. The Z4 wins from a drivers experience it just seemed more precise.

Stability Control: The Z4 has 3 modes, the 370Z has 2 (on or off).

Blind Spots: 370Z is the worst I ever driven. Z4 Wins with the tops up or down.

Clutch: All the time spent with Z4's picky clutch has made me love 370z's clutch.

Tranny: Toss up. While the Z4 wins seems to shift faster, the Syncro Rev in the 370Z almost feels like you’re in automatic.

Bling: 370z Touring with Navigation almost feels like an Infinity. 370Z is the clear winner. I get more compliments from guys in the 370Z while the Z4 seem to be liked more by the ladies. I see many women driving Z4 (typically autos). I haven’t seen many women driving a 370Z. This is truly a manly man’s car.

Reliability: I will never get a used BMW w/o a warranty again! I spent $1000’s of dollars for crap I never knew existed on a car. The BMW forum has tons of threads about steering issues and class actions lawsuits.