Throw out the comparisons to the future E90 M3 - it will be a completely different animal.

After looking at the BMWUSA.COM website, I know understanding BMW's pricing strategy a little better. They are simply pushing the Z4 into a different price category. There is a $6500 difference from the '06 Z4 3.0i ($35,600) to the new mid-year model Z4 3.0si ($42,100). The only differences between the 2 cars - the new 255 HP engine, aluminum trim std., DSP, leather, and a trip computer.

Oh well - I'm waiting for the M Coupe ($49,100) before I do any serious shopping. But in this price range, I have to start thinking Z06.