Car Review 2006 BMW M Roadster Review

Starting MSRP $51,300


Preview
Looks Fast, Goes Faster
The latest version of BMW's M Roadster gives this seductive ragtop racecar-like performance.
by Jim Gorzelany


Originally published 12/09/2005



BMW hasn't sold an M Roadster since the 2002 model year, when it was based on the former Z3 two-seat convertible. A new version, derived from the recently updated Z4, debuts in early 2006 as a midyear entry. Like every other BMW donning an M on the trunk lid, the M Roadster enhances performance and handling of the car on which it's based — already a quick, nimble and attractive little sports car. Both the Z4 and M Roadster are built at BMW's Spartanburg, S.C. plant.



While the latest M Roadster features a number of cosmetic tweaks that differentiate it from the Z4, including more aggressive front- and rear-end treatments, exclusive 18-inch wheels and four tailpipes, the most pronounced upgrade is under the long hood. Shared with the current M3 is a 3.2-liter V6 engine with dual overhead cams, variable valve timing and individual throttle controls for each cylinder, among other top-drawer technology. The engine generates 333 horsepower and is controlled with a Getrag six-speed manual transmission capable of taking the M Roadster from zero to 60 mph in just under five seconds. Top speed is electronically limited to a highly illegal 155 mph.

BMW's Servotronic electromechanical variable power-steering system and a speed-sensitive limited-slip differential lock improve the Z4's already stellar cornering abilities. Whether careening around a curve or traversing slippery pavement, the differential lock automatically transfers power to the rear wheel with the most traction. This system is designed to work with the latest version of BMW's Dynamic Stability Control system, in order to allow aggressive cornering without undue intervention while still preventing a loss of control in extreme handling situations.

For added safety and control, the M Roadster's heavy-duty compound braking system borrows an array of advancements from the current 3 Series sedan, including

• Brake Fade Compensation, which mitigates loss of braking power due to heat buildup during spirited driving;

• Brake Standby, which anticipates hard braking by automatically closing the brake pads against the brake rotors when the driver lifts off of the throttle;

• Brake Drying, which periodically brings the pads nearly in contact with the rotors, based on input from the car's rain-sensing windshield wipers, to keep the points of contact dry;

• Soft Stop, which is designed to help bring the car to a halt smoothly by automatically modulating brake force upon deceleration; and

• Startoff Assistant, which automatically keeps the car from rolling while in neutral and on an incline.

Interior flourishes unique to the M Roadster include a specific steering wheel, gearshift knob and door sills, as well as white-on-black illuminated instrumentation. The tachometer indicates the engine's current safe operating speed based on the engine-oil temperature; this recommended speed rises concurrently with the temperature of the oil (full throttle is indicated only when the oil is at the proper temperature).