The Auto Express team list their dream wheels for the warmer months
Allie’s pickBMW Z4 Mk1
THE BMW Z4 isn’t the most imaginative choice for summer fun, but like its Mazda MX-5 nemesis and indeed premium offerings of the time, such as the Audi TT Roadster and Mercedes SLK, there’s a good reason why it’s so popular.
The first-generation ‘E85’ Z4 has survived pretty well over the years and there are lots of examples to choose from. That means you can afford to be picky and patient, because the ideal specification of Z4 for you is out there somewhere. Coincidentally, I managed to convince my girlfriend to pick up one just last year. I knew the Z4’s chassis wasn’t as dynamic as the MX-5’s, but the Chris Bangle design (which has aged wonderfully, in my opinion) and classy cabin were big selling points for her. Instead of going for the 261bhp 3.0-litre, the 170bhp 2.2-litre seemed a better match with its straight six still providing a decent soundtrack with the roof down.
Look out for
Check for any water damage beneath the folding hood; drain holes can become clogged
and lead to the roof’s electric motor to fail. Also, the Z4’s ride is pretty firm
as standard, but excessive movement will be a result of corroded springs -
they’re not pricey to replace.
Where I’d drive it...
CONVERTIBLES in the UK don’t make sense for most of the year, but on that rare sunny day a trip to the North Yorkshire Moors is always a good idea, thanks to a roof that’s quick to fold down (and up). The roads are terrific and the scenery is even better. Just watch out for cyclists, ramblers and, of course, the sheep.
Chris’s pickAlfa Romeo Spider
THE wedge-shaped 916-series Alfa Romeo GTV and Spider looked stunning back in their heyday. And just a few weeks ago, when I parked next to a gleaming black roadster with lush red leather upholstery in a West Country service station, I knew I was looking at another future classic I’d soon wish I’d bought while I could still afford it.
The two-seat Alfa mostly came with a sonorous 3.0-litre V6 or in lighter and more agile 2.0-litre Twin Spark guise. While the more rigid GTV coupé model is a better sporting drive and is a lovely thing to look at, I’d definitely put up with the Spider’s more flexible body and less tenacious front-end grip in exchange for that glamorous roadster style.
Where I’d drive it...
