From the November 2006 Roundel:
"More details are emerging on the Z2, BMW's apparent decision to downsize the next Z car stems from a sobering look at what happens to sports cars that bulk up overtime. Year after year, Mazda keeps the MX-5 Miata trim, small, and true to its roots - and sales remain soild. BMW's progression from the low-volume Z1 to Z3 to Z4 got heavier and more complex - and sales have been soft.
The next BMW Z car will likely be a showcase of BMW technology that will use a four - inch reduction in length along with composites and plastics to get the weight down from 2,900 pounds to 2,000 pounds, according to Raod & Track (November).
...the car would be the next stage in the Z roadster progression and not a stable - mate for the Z4; BMW reportably believes the market is not big enough for both. Plus, there's the very good chance that the Z2 would out - accelerate and out - handle the Z4. The Z2 would likely be cheaper..."
"More details are emerging on the Z2, BMW's apparent decision to downsize the next Z car stems from a sobering look at what happens to sports cars that bulk up overtime. Year after year, Mazda keeps the MX-5 Miata trim, small, and true to its roots - and sales remain soild. BMW's progression from the low-volume Z1 to Z3 to Z4 got heavier and more complex - and sales have been soft.
The next BMW Z car will likely be a showcase of BMW technology that will use a four - inch reduction in length along with composites and plastics to get the weight down from 2,900 pounds to 2,000 pounds, according to Raod & Track (November).
...the car would be the next stage in the Z roadster progression and not a stable - mate for the Z4; BMW reportably believes the market is not big enough for both. Plus, there's the very good chance that the Z2 would out - accelerate and out - handle the Z4. The Z2 would likely be cheaper..."