Seven years after launching, production of the E89-generation BMW Z4 is said to have come to an end.
While BMW has yet to make an official announcement, German publication Bimmer Today claims that the final Z4 rolled off the production line on August 22. The final unit built was an sDrive35is model finished in Valencia Orange Metallic, one of the most eye-catching colors available for the sports car.
Although the Z4 was never offered as an M model, its performance-focused variants have proven to be a match for BMW’s closest rivals. In sDrive35is form, the car’s twin-turbocharged straight six engine delivers a healthy 335 hp and 369 lb-ft of torque and is coupled to the same seven-speed dual clutch ‘box as the M3. Zero to 62 mph (100 km/h) flies by in just 4.5 seconds.
With both the Mercedes-Benz SLC and Porsche Boxster receiving updates, BMW has turned its attention to the Z4’s successor, tentatively known as the Z5.
While details about the Z5 are murky, it comes from the marque’s ongoing collaboration with Toyota which will also spawn a successor to the legendary Supra. The Z5 may utilize a hybrid powertrain and in all probability, incorporate a selection of lightweight materials including carbon fiber and aluminum.
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