Faster than the Porsche Carrera, but less expensive than the Boxster. No wonder BMW officials were smiling during the preview of their new Z4 M Coupe on Tuesday. The hardtop version of the Z4 roadster will make an impressive 343 horsepower with its 3.2-liter in-line six. The motor is mated to a six-speed manual gearbox driving the rear wheels. While final prices haven't been announced, TheCarConnection.com was told to expect something under $55,000. Meanwhile, a base version of the Z4 coupe will share the roadster's conventional powertrain, while a 400-horsepower race-ready version will also be launched later this year.
Rolls Reaches Ahead with 101EX Coupe
2006 Rolls-Royce 101EX |
More compact and rakish than the massive Phantom, the 101EX concept could become the next entry into the expanding Rolls-Royce lineup. CEO Ian Robertson left the question unanswered during the automaker's Geneva Motor Show preview. The automaker has already confirmed plans to build the Corniche convertible, and trial production is getting underway, according to Robertson. The 101EX seems a good fit as Rolls seeks to broaden its appeal. The show car was a striking two-tone, with its chromed hood and dark blue fenders and door panels. Like the flagship Phantom, the two-door concept is based around an aluminum space frame, but it is shorter and lower, with a higher beltline. Under that shining hood sits a 6.75-liter V-12 engine. Inside, the 101EX features some intriguing touches, including a "starlight headliner," into which hundreds of LEDs have been woven. At the touch of a button the lights can be dimmed from bright "to a gentle glow," noted Robertson.
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