The world of sports cars is always exciting, and recently, I found myself in a fortunate yet challenging position. As a car enthusiast, receiving an invitation to order the new Toyota GR86 was thrilling. I promptly put down a deposit, securing my place in line for this highly anticipated vehicle.
However, this invitation arrived after a period where I had already explored other options due to the perceived scarcity of the GR86. Thinking I had missed the initial allocation, I began looking at the used sports car market. My search led me to seriously consider a Subaru BRZ, but ultimately, I made a purchase that has brought me immense joy: a 2008 BMW Z4 Coupe.
BMW Z4 Coupe parked outdoors
The Z4 Coupe, with its distinctive long hood and fastback roofline, shares some fundamental similarities with the GR86. Both are front-engined, rear-wheel-drive sports cars designed to deliver an engaging and analogue driving experience. They are also both relatively rare in their own right. While the GR86 is just entering the market with limited availability, the Z4 Coupe was produced in limited numbers, with only 2,189 units sold in the UK, making it a fairly exclusive vehicle.
Having embraced Z4 Coupe ownership and genuinely believing a new GR86 was out of reach, the Toyota invitation came as a complete surprise. The dilemma now is significant. While the dream of owning both is tempting, practicality dictates otherwise. The Z4 Coupe currently serves as my enjoyable weekend car, but neither it nor the GR86 are ideally suited as our primary, everyday vehicle.
This situation has left me genuinely torn. Both cars offer compelling experiences and cater to the sports car aficionado in different ways.
I recently had the opportunity to test drive a GR86, which provided a glimpse into its capabilities. The responsiveness of the steering and throttle was immediately noticeable, and it certainly felt more eager than the BRZ I had previously tested. However, the test drive route itself was limited, consisting mainly of motorway and slower roads. To truly appreciate the GR86, and to make a fair comparison against my Z4 Coupe, a proper run on challenging B-roads is essential.
Toyota GR86 dealership test drive
Interestingly, when considering the running costs, the GR86 and Z4 Coupe are surprisingly similar on paper. Insurance costs are comparable, with the GR86 being marginally more expensive. Road tax is definitively lower for the newer GR86. However, somewhat unexpectedly, servicing costs for the BMW Z4 Coupe appear to be more affordable. This was an initial surprise, given the expectation that a newer car like the GR86 would have lower maintenance costs. Of course, the GR86 benefits from a comprehensive 10-year warranty, which adds a layer of long-term security.
The primary difference in running costs comes down to a contingency fund I’ve allocated for potential maintenance on the Z4 Coupe, given its age as a now 15-year-old vehicle. Excluding this anticipated maintenance, the day-to-day running costs are remarkably close.
Furthermore, the Z4 Coupe has likely reached the bottom of its depreciation curve and is increasingly being recognized as a modern classic, potentially appreciating in value over time. The GR86, on the other hand, is a new vehicle and its depreciation trajectory is yet to be fully determined, although initial market trends suggest it may also hold its value well, or even appreciate in the short term due to demand.
As you can see, the decision is complex, with numerous factors to weigh. The pressure from Toyota to finalize the GR86 order adds another layer of urgency.
My immediate priority is to avoid missing out on the GR86 opportunity. However, I also need to consider the implications of potentially canceling the order later if I decide to retain my Z4 Coupe. Understanding Toyota’s cancellation policies, particularly regarding deposit refunds for cash purchases, is crucial in making an informed decision.
For now, I am deeply enjoying my Z4 Coupe, a car that offers a blend of classic sports car aesthetics and engaging driving dynamics. The allure of a new GR86 is undeniable, but the charm and character of the Z4 Coupe are equally compelling, making this a truly difficult, yet enviable, automotive dilemma.
