2008 BMW Z4 M Roadster

My time in the Z4 M Roadster was equally divided between a swelteringly hot summer evening and an absolute downpour the following morning. The roadster was much more fun with the top down, but incredibly stable during the downpour.

I really enjoyed the 3.2-liter inline-six. This engine was also used in the last-generation BMW M3 and is still a joy on twisty roads. According to BMW, it will sprint from 0-60 mph in 4.9 seconds and the top speed is 155 mph. Not every car needs a V-8 to be fun, especially on public roads. The inline-six also offers a type of smoothness that makes the Z4 M fun when you aren't flogging it.

I frequently forget this car exists, which is a shame. It's a great choice for topless driving and offers a superb combination of comfort and performance. Perhaps a touch soft for an M car, but that's not really a problem with our broken roads.

Phil Floraday, Senior Online Editor