Morgan Plus Four vs BMW Z4: Classic vs Contemporary Roadsters

The allure of open-top driving has captivated enthusiasts for generations, blending the thrill of wind-in-your-hair motoring with precise handling. In this showdown, we pit the Morgan Plus Four, a British icon rooted in tradition, against the BMW Z4 M40i, a German masterpiece of modern engineering. Both are rear-wheel-drive roadsters with manual transmissions, but they represent polar opposites: one evokes the golden age of sports cars, the other delivers high-tech precision. We’ll dissect their powertrains, on-road behavior, practicality, and ownership costs to crown the superior choice for today’s drivers.

Design and Build: Heritage Charm Meets Sleek Modernity

The Morgan Plus Four stands out with its unmistakable retro silhouette, featuring a long hood, wire wheels, and an aluminum body handcrafted over a wooden frame. Measuring just 3,830mm long—shorter than many city hatchbacks—its compact dimensions promise agility on twisty roads. At 1,044kg, the lightweight construction enhances every input, making it feel alive and responsive. The fabric roof folds manually, emphasizing its purist ethos, while side curtains offer rudimentary weather protection.

In contrast, the BMW Z4 embodies contemporary flair with sharp lines, a prominent kidney grille, and LED headlights. Stretching to 4,324mm, it’s larger and more imposing, weighing 1,550kg. Its electrically operated soft top deploys in seconds, paired with a premium fabric that insulates effectively. The Z4’s aerodynamic shape aids high-speed stability, but its bulkier stance sacrifices some of the Morgan’s nimble charm.

This table highlights the Morgan’s edge in agility, derived from its sub-tonne curb weight, while the BMW prioritizes presence and occupant space.

Powertrains: Turbo Efficiency and Raw Punch

Both cars share BMW DNA under the hood. The Plus Four employs the B48 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder, tuned to 255bhp and 350Nm. Paired with a six-speed manual, it rockets to 62mph in 5.2 seconds and tops out at 149mph. Long gearing keeps revs low—around 1,500rpm at 70mph—boosting efficiency to an impressive 47.8mpg in mixed testing, with a 484-mile range from its 46-liter tank.

The Z4 M40i ups the ante with a 3.0-liter inline-six turbo, unleashing 335bhp and 500Nm from just 1,600rpm. It shaves acceleration to 4.6 seconds to 62mph and reaches 155mph. However, thirstier at 32.3mpg (369-mile range), its 52-liter tank provides parity in touring capability. Torque overwhelms in-gear pulls, but the heavier mass tempers its power-to-weight advantage.

• Morgan Plus Four: Ideal for efficient, lightweight fun with surprising motorway economy.
• BMW Z4 M40i: Thrilling straight-line speed and low-end grunt for overtaking prowess.

Driving Dynamics: Pure Feel vs Refined Poise

Urban Maneuvering and Ride Comfort

Around town, the Z4 shines with superior isolation. Adaptive dampers in comfort mode smooth over potholes that unsettle the Morgan’s firmer setup. Powertrain vibes are muted, and visibility is aided by cameras. The Plus Four, however, transmits every road imperfection, rewarding skilled drivers with telepathic steering feedback but punishing novices with jittery progress.

Highway Cruising

On motorways, the Morgan’s efficiency impresses—60.5mpg at steady 60-70mph—but wind and tire roar intrude above 70mph, roof up or down. The BMW counters with hushed refinement, stable tracking, and effortless pace, though its fuel figures lag.

Twisty Roads and Handling

Here, the Morgan excels. Its low weight and direct steering enable point-and-shoot cornering, with neutral balance that invites playful rotation. Brakes are progressive, though lacking the Z4’s bite. The BMW grips tenaciously via sophisticated electronics, but feels heavier in transitions. Both manuals shift slickly, but the Morgan’s notchy action suits its character.

Interior Quality and Practicality

Morgan’s cabin blends vintage wood with modern touches like digital gauges. Seats are supportive but snug, with limited storage—no boot, just minimal cubbies. The Z4 offers a driver-focused cockpit with leather, infotainment, and 281 liters of boot space. Rear seats? Absent in both, prioritizing two-seater purity.

• Pros for Morgan: Authentic, customizable charm; lightweight simplicity.
• Cons for Morgan: Basic weatherproofing; tight for taller drivers.
• Pros for BMW: Luxurious tech; better insulation.
• Cons for BMW: Heavier feel dilutes engagement.

Pricing, Running Costs, and Value

Base Plus Four starts around £65,900, with our tester at £74,406 after options. BMW Z4 M40i undercuts at £63,230 tested, though loaded examples climb. Both incur £600 annual VED; Morgan’s lower CO2 aids company car tax. Resale favors Morgan’s exclusivity.

Insurance groups: Morgan mid-40s, BMW higher due to power. Servicing via BMW networks keeps costs reasonable for both.

Safety and Reliability

BMW Z4 earned five Euro NCAP stars (97% adult protection). Morgan lacks ratings, relying on structure over aids. Both feature ABS, stability control, and multiple airbags.

Which Roadster Wins?

For purists craving raw engagement and efficiency, the Morgan Plus Four triumphs on backroads. Daily drivers will prefer the BMW Z4 M40i‘s refinement and power. Budget? BMW offers more for less initially.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is the Morgan Plus Four more fuel-efficient than the BMW Z4?

Yes, real-world tests show 47.8mpg vs 32.3mpg, thanks to lighter weight.

Which has better performance?

BMW accelerates faster (4.6s vs 5.2s), but Morgan’s power-to-weight edges handling.

Are they practical for daily use?

BMW offers more space and comfort; Morgan suits enthusiasts over families.

What about build quality?

Morgan’s handcrafted; BMW’s factory precision with warranties.

Can I customize either?

Morgan excels in personalization; BMW via options packs.