RoyArcher said:
scm said:
RoyArcher said:
Narrowed it down (I think) to either a BMW 35is or F-Type 3.0 v6 'S'.
First thing to decide is whether you want to look like a lot of other cars on the road, or you want something a bit special, and rare.
Bit of both really.
Obviously the F-Type is special, but on the flip side the 35is is pretty rare too.
You pose a good question to choose between the two. Obviously you're on an F Type forum so there's not going to be many votes for the Z4, regardless of the car, but as an Ex Z4 (earlier model 3.0s) I know the BMW product and it's good..
Both have good 6 cylinder engines, plenty of power, similar levels of comfort. Neither are designed for the twisty roads, but a good compromise between cruiser and fun sports car. Both are rare and both distinctive.
Ultimately I chose the F Type over the Z4 and would not go back for many reasons
A supercharged engine just feels better than turbo and the sound of the F is awesome, especially in S with active exhaust and earlier model years. It does appear a class above the mainstream marques, it looks more exotic than it actually is and the general public love it and comment whereas they don't like generally BMW's (or Mercs, Audi, Porsche, etc.). You see the difference as an owner at junctions where drivers let you out, cars pull in a lane on the motorway to let you by and passers by comment favourable. No white van man negative comments and gestures
So the downside is that the F is not the same build quality as the Z4 (panel gaps, rattles, etc.) and it's reliability is not so good. Personally never had any real issues, but some have.
I suppose your decision will come down to if the few more hp on the iS over S is worth the money or you want a real change of car.
Test a few and see how you feel
