VH_Supra26
02-19-2009, 10:01 AM
by Alex Kaufmann
http://images.marken.auto-motor-und-sport.de/media/mdb/118665.jpg?r_498x333
If given the green light the Z2 could be on the streets by 2011
A new, entry-level roadster based on the 1-series and powered by a range of economical four-cylinder engines could be brewing at BMW. The company's board of directors are expected to make a decision on the car by the end of the year, and if it's approved it could be in production in time for the 2012 model year.
Rumors of a so-called Z2 roadster have been tumbling about the web for at least three years, but so far nothing has come of it. The latest report from AutoBild, however, provides a preview sketch of a possible design for the car but without official confirmation it's speculation at best.
That speculation would lead us to believe that a range of four-cylinders, including a 120hp (90kW) entry-level model and a 211hp (157kW) turbocharged unit could be on the table for the smallest of BMW's roadsters. A target price of about €25,000 - at least €5,000 cheaper than the existing Z4 - would put it at the more affordable end of the spectrum, but still far from inexpensive. The soft-top car would be fairly light, however, and the thrifty four-pots would be efficient. This combination would make it an ideal competitor for cars like the Mazda MX-5.
Performance from the punchy engines would likely be sporting, but not fast: estimates put 0-62mph (0-100km/h) times around 7 seconds, and top speed at about 150mph (240km/h). A high-performance variant with BMW’s 3.0L twin-turbocharged six is reportedly under consideration as is a hybrid model. Configuration would be as a two-seater with a 'weekender' luggage area, suitable for overnight getaways.
Whether the car is eventually built or not, it won't likely see sales in the U.S. in the near term, as even the 1-series coupes on offer here are only available with the inline-six in naturally aspirated and twin-turbo form. Four-cylinder engines with turbochargers and direct injection could eventually see U.S. sale, but the first applications for them will likely be conservative 3-series sedans, not sports cars.
All Content Copyright 2006-2008 Motor Authority
http://www.motorauthority.com/report-bmw-1-series-based-z2-roadster-in-the-works.html
http://images.marken.auto-motor-und-sport.de/media/mdb/118665.jpg?r_498x333
If given the green light the Z2 could be on the streets by 2011
A new, entry-level roadster based on the 1-series and powered by a range of economical four-cylinder engines could be brewing at BMW. The company's board of directors are expected to make a decision on the car by the end of the year, and if it's approved it could be in production in time for the 2012 model year.
Rumors of a so-called Z2 roadster have been tumbling about the web for at least three years, but so far nothing has come of it. The latest report from AutoBild, however, provides a preview sketch of a possible design for the car but without official confirmation it's speculation at best.
That speculation would lead us to believe that a range of four-cylinders, including a 120hp (90kW) entry-level model and a 211hp (157kW) turbocharged unit could be on the table for the smallest of BMW's roadsters. A target price of about €25,000 - at least €5,000 cheaper than the existing Z4 - would put it at the more affordable end of the spectrum, but still far from inexpensive. The soft-top car would be fairly light, however, and the thrifty four-pots would be efficient. This combination would make it an ideal competitor for cars like the Mazda MX-5.
Performance from the punchy engines would likely be sporting, but not fast: estimates put 0-62mph (0-100km/h) times around 7 seconds, and top speed at about 150mph (240km/h). A high-performance variant with BMW’s 3.0L twin-turbocharged six is reportedly under consideration as is a hybrid model. Configuration would be as a two-seater with a 'weekender' luggage area, suitable for overnight getaways.
Whether the car is eventually built or not, it won't likely see sales in the U.S. in the near term, as even the 1-series coupes on offer here are only available with the inline-six in naturally aspirated and twin-turbo form. Four-cylinder engines with turbochargers and direct injection could eventually see U.S. sale, but the first applications for them will likely be conservative 3-series sedans, not sports cars.
All Content Copyright 2006-2008 Motor Authority
http://www.motorauthority.com/report-bmw-1-series-based-z2-roadster-in-the-works.html