[Paul330d]

Every September, my dealer organises a Test Drive Weekend when his 'favourite customers' are invited to come along and take the wheel of some of BMW's more exotic models.

This year, we had the choice of the M5, M6, 535d, Z4M, 330xd & 745d. We could only choose 2, however, and as I had driven the M5 & M6 last year, I thought I would go for the 535d & the Z4M cabriolet.

The 535d with Step was, frankly, a disappointment. It felt slightly more comfortable than my 330d, but I definitely couldn't feel the extra hp from the second turbo. Mid-range pick-up was down on the stock 330d and certainly way off my remapped 330d, despite very similar power on paper.

Then I tried the Z4M. Geez, even the noise gave me goosebumps, and the acceleration was just awesome. It felt like driving a go-kart with a V8 strapped on the back. The power band was huge compared to the diesels I'm used to, but the manual gear change was nasty: heavy and lumpy.

If I could afford a toy (for the Z4 is not what I would call a real-world car), then I would definitely consider the Z4M. The press seem to think that the Cayman is even better, however...

[BMW320i]

looks like u enjoyd ur day Paul, its good 2 b a loyal customer 2 a certain dealer eh??

hmmmmm, i dont know about the 5er d, i only drove my father's 530i n i really liked it alot

about the Z4M, i wish i could put my hands on one of these (either rodster or coupe), everyone says the power is unbelievable!!!!!
one of my friends wanted 2 buy the Z4M, but they only bring the M coupe here (dont know y), so she'z peobably buying the caymann S...