With the much rumored Z2 changing to the UKL front wheel drive platform, apparently BMW executives are considering re-thinking their entire roadster strategy. According to BMW based insider Scott26, that means the return of the Z3.
According to the source, the Z2 would move to the small front wheel drive platform of the UKL (home of the upcoming new MINI and front wheel drive 1 Series) while the Z3 would be based on the rwd 1 and 3 series platform. More specifically it would be aligned with the forthcoming F20 platform. Confused yet? There’s more. BMW could then move the Z4 further up-market to better compete with the Mercedes SL. The new Z5 (as it would be called) could then grow larger and more luxurious.
Here’s why this is great news for BF readers. Theoretically this would allow BMW to make the Z3 the small, lightweight agile roadster so many of us have been clamoring for. Imagine a current Z4 with less weight, size, a fabric top and just as powerful.
Oh and the Z2 we’ve been talking about for well over a year? It could become the Z1 with the move to a smaller front wheel drive platform. Interesting times…
Source: GCF
Author: Staff
Source: http://www.bimmerfile.com/2011/05/31/the-z3-to-return/