MG Cyberster Vs BMW Z4: EV Innovation Faces Off Against Iconic Petrol Performance
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The arrival of the MG Cyberster has added a fresh spark to India’s premium convertible segment. Touted as the country’s first all-electric roadster, the Cyberster enters a space traditionally dominated by petrol-powered icons like the BMW Z4. With distinct powertrains, pricing strategies, and tech-loaded cabins, the two cars cater to the same aspirational lifestyle but offer radically different driving experiences. Here’s a comprehensive comparison of both performance machines to help you understand how they stack up on paper.
While both models are imported as Completely Built Units (CBUs), the Cyberster undercuts the Z4 by at least ₹17.9 lakh, giving it a clear edge in affordability for buyers seeking premium convertible excitement.
The electric roadster also benefits from a longer wheelbase of 2,689 mm — 219 mm more than the Z4’s — which could translate into improved cabin space and better ride comfort. Adding to its sporty appeal, the Cyberster features larger 20-inch wheels compared to the BMW’s 19-inch set.
The BMW Z4, on the other hand, carries forward its reputation for refined luxury and performance-oriented interiors. It comes with a 10.25-inch touchscreen powered by iDrive 7.0, a digital driver’s display, ambient lighting, GPS with 3D mapping, and powered front seats with memory function. Safety features include four airbags, traction control, dynamic stability control, and cornering brake control.
Both cars get a quick-folding fabric roof that can open or close in just 10 seconds, adding to their usability and drop-top appeal.
BMW’s Z4, in contrast, is powered by a 3.0-litre inline six-cylinder petrol engine. The M40i variant delivers 340 hp and 500 Nm of torque, with rear-wheel drive as standard. While exact 0–100 km/h times vary slightly across variants, the Z4 typically achieves it in around 4.5 seconds. It delivers the engaging sound and feel of a high-performance petrol sports car, which purists still admire.
Meanwhile, the BMW Z4 continues to be known for its excellent driving dynamics. With rear-wheel drive, a near-perfect balance, and years of refinement in suspension tuning, it offers a tried-and-tested roadster experience. The hydraulic steering and well-weighted chassis contribute to a driving feel that appeals to traditional sports car enthusiasts.
The BMW Z4, on the other hand, sticks to traditional performance cues with its petrol engine, refined interior, and driver-focused dynamics. It remains a benchmark for those who value the raw appeal of a petrol convertible.
Choosing between the two depends on what you prioritise — the future-forward silence of electric mobility or the visceral thrill of petrol-powered driving.
Pricing And Variants: MG Delivers A Cost Advantage
MG’s Cyberster comes in a single fully-loaded variant with introductory pricing of ₹74.99 lakh (ex-showroom) for fresh bookings. However, customers who had pre-reserved it can avail it for ₹72.49 lakh. The pricing positions it well below the BMW Z4 range, which starts at ₹92.9 lakh for the base M40i variant. Other Z4 options, including the Pure Impulse editions with automatic and manual gearboxes, go up to ₹97.9 lakh.While both models are imported as Completely Built Units (CBUs), the Cyberster undercuts the Z4 by at least ₹17.9 lakh, giving it a clear edge in affordability for buyers seeking premium convertible excitement.
Dimensions: More Space And Presence With Cyberster
In terms of size, the MG Cyberster stands longer and wider than the BMW Z4. Measuring 4,533 mm in length and 1,912 mm in width, it offers a more imposing road presence compared to the Z4’s 4,324 mm length and 1,864 mm width. It also sits slightly taller at 1,328 mm versus the Z4’s 1,304 mm.The electric roadster also benefits from a longer wheelbase of 2,689 mm — 219 mm more than the Z4’s — which could translate into improved cabin space and better ride comfort. Adding to its sporty appeal, the Cyberster features larger 20-inch wheels compared to the BMW’s 19-inch set.
Feature Comparison: Tech-Heavy Electric Vs Refined Luxury
The MG Cyberster makes a strong case for itself when it comes to tech and convenience. Its triple-screen setup includes a central infotainment screen positioned towards the driver, along with a digital instrument cluster and a secondary display. Features include wireless smartphone connectivity, dual-zone climate control, ventilated seats, wireless charging, and a premium Bose sound system. It also boasts 5G connectivity, a Snapdragon 8155 processor, and Level-2 Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS).The BMW Z4, on the other hand, carries forward its reputation for refined luxury and performance-oriented interiors. It comes with a 10.25-inch touchscreen powered by iDrive 7.0, a digital driver’s display, ambient lighting, GPS with 3D mapping, and powered front seats with memory function. Safety features include four airbags, traction control, dynamic stability control, and cornering brake control.
Both cars get a quick-folding fabric roof that can open or close in just 10 seconds, adding to their usability and drop-top appeal.
Powertrain: Electrified Acceleration Vs Turbocharged Muscle
The heart of the MG Cyberster is a 77 kWh battery paired with dual oil-cooled electric motors — one on each axle — delivering a total of 510 hp and 725 Nm of torque. With all-wheel drive and instant torque delivery, it can sprint from 0–100 km/h in just 3.2 seconds. The Cyberster also claims a range of up to 580 km on a single charge (CLTC cycle), making it both fast and practical for longer trips.BMW’s Z4, in contrast, is powered by a 3.0-litre inline six-cylinder petrol engine. The M40i variant delivers 340 hp and 500 Nm of torque, with rear-wheel drive as standard. While exact 0–100 km/h times vary slightly across variants, the Z4 typically achieves it in around 4.5 seconds. It delivers the engaging sound and feel of a high-performance petrol sports car, which purists still admire.
Ride And Handling: Balanced Engineering Vs Proven Dynamics
The MG Cyberster is engineered for high-speed stability, featuring a 50:50 weight distribution and a suspension setup comprising a front double-wishbone and a rear five-link independent design. The low-slung battery pack (just 110 mm thick) keeps the centre of gravity low, enhancing cornering confidence and agility.Meanwhile, the BMW Z4 continues to be known for its excellent driving dynamics. With rear-wheel drive, a near-perfect balance, and years of refinement in suspension tuning, it offers a tried-and-tested roadster experience. The hydraulic steering and well-weighted chassis contribute to a driving feel that appeals to traditional sports car enthusiasts.
Verdict: Style, Speed, Or Sustainability?
The MG Cyberster brings a new-age twist to the premium roadster category by offering electrifying performance, impressive tech, and a significantly lower price tag. It’s ideal for forward-looking buyers who want style and speed without emissions.The BMW Z4, on the other hand, sticks to traditional performance cues with its petrol engine, refined interior, and driver-focused dynamics. It remains a benchmark for those who value the raw appeal of a petrol convertible.
Choosing between the two depends on what you prioritise — the future-forward silence of electric mobility or the visceral thrill of petrol-powered driving.
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