BMW Z4 Vs. Porsche 718 Boxster

BMW Z4 (G29) Vs Porsche 718 Boxster (982) Differences

For 2025, the BMW Z4 is still available, while 2024 will be the last year in which a combustion-powered Porsche 718 will be available. Come 2025, the Porsche 718 goes fully electric. While it is true that the base-model 2025 BMW Z4 starts at $54,050 that’s the four-cylinder variant. But the Z4 M40i that costs $$66,450, is what you really want since it has the venerable, B58 straight-six engine that also powers the GR Supra.

By comparison, the Porsche 718 Boxster starts at $74,900, and yes, for the money, you are getting the base, four-cylinder 2.0-liter boxer engine, which is down on power compared to the BMW’s inline-six unit. The range-topping Porsche 718 Boxster GTS 4.0 and the Spyder RS will set you back $101,800 and $164,200 respectively, which is a steep price for getting a six-cylinder Boxster when compared to the Z4. So we’re essentially comparing the top-of-the-line Z4 with the base-model Boxster. While it’s not an apples-to-apples comparison, these two models are closest when it comes to price, separated by just under $8,500.

Performance comparison: BMW Z4 M40i (G29) Vs Porsche 718 Boxster (982)

It doesn’t take long to see that on paper, the BMW Z4 packs more bang for the buck. Its potent B58 engine produces more power and torque than the 718 Boxster’s smaller flat-four. That said, the 718 has the advantage when it comes to lightness and balance, so even on paper, the two German convertibles are closer than expected.

In terms of platform, the BMW Z4 is underpinned by the Bavarian company’s Cluster Architecture (CLAR) platform, and more specifically, the CLAR Linie Klein, which is a variant of the modular platform, specifically developed for more compact models that feature a front-mounted, longitudinal engine configuration. In the Z4’s case, the platform was developed with some input from Toyota, as it also underpins the GR Supra.

The Porsche 718 Boxster is underpinned by the MMB platform, which is also of a modular design. Officially, it is a Volkswagen platform, but it is specifically developed for rear-engine and mid-engine models. This, of course, means Porsche’s sports cars like the 718 and 911 models. The platform was first introduced in 2016 for the Porsche 982, and a version of it also underpins the Porsche 911 Type-992. The unique thing about this platform is that it can accommodate a hybrid powertrain as seen by Porsche’s new T-Hybrid powertrain.

With these cars, it’s worth talking about how good they are as platforms to build upon. While both produce enough power, there are those looking to extract extra performance. In this regard, the B58 engine in the BMW Z4 is known to be a very popular platform to build upon. Then, there is the matter of BMW underreporting its output figures and the B58 inline-six is no exception.

On the other hand, AutoTopNL showed, a base-model Porsche 718 that shows great gains with the most basic mods. It really comes down to whether you are a Porsche person or you are simply looking for a fun Roadster that packs serious power and benefits from great aftermarket support. If you belong in the second camp, the Z4 will definitely deliver.