Drivers Log.(News)

2006 BMW Z4 M coupe

Date in fleet: May 19-June 2 As-tested price: $54,470 Powertrain: 3.2-liter I6; rwd, six-speed manual Output: 330 hp @ 7900 rpm, 262 lb-ft @ 4900 rpm Curb weight: 3230 lbs Fuel economy (EPA combined/AW observed): 18.82/18.54 mpg

MORRISON: Forget about the polarizing looks (I personally like the design). Five minutes behind the M Coupe's wheel and you'll be reaching for your wallet, even if it's empty. Ever wonder what a smaller, lighter M3 would be like? With the M3's screaming six-cylinder and sublime suspension working through a nine-inch-shorter wheelbase, the M Coupe rotates through corners like a full-size slot car.

The car also weighs about 200 pounds less than the M3, while maintaining virtually the same nearly 50:50 weight distribution. It sounds outstanding on paper and is even better in the sheetmetal. I'd opt for this roof rather than the M Roadster's convertible top: This car feels stiffer and a bit more responsive. Compared to the rest of BMW's lineup, the M Coupe stands out as the driver's car.

The price isn't cheap, but neither is it outrageous. I wonder how many prospective Porsche Cayman S buyers would be lured over to Munich's side of the Force. The Cayman is a great piece of work, and I think most would agree it wins the styling battle. But the base Porsche costs about $9,000 more than a base M Coupe and has substantially less power, though it weighs nearly 300 pounds less. So performance should be similar.

RAYNAL: This is one stout little scooter. From the revvy six to the race-car handling, it is a joy to blast around in. The Z3 was not a great roadster, but I have always liked the Z4's looks a lot better. The M version translates well to coupe form. It seems a natural.

This car has one of the sweetest sixes in automobiledom. The suspension is firmer than your standard Z4, but is in no way too harsh, even on rough pavement. The steering feels sublime, the car's balance near perfect, and the grip is out of sight. And no iDrive! Now that's ...