2002 BMW Z8 Roadster

2002 BMW Z8 Roadster

In 1956, BMW released the 507, a stunning two-seat Roadster that delivered exhilarating performance, luxury, and rarity, which remains one of the most coveted BMW models ever produced. At the 1997 Tokyo Auto Show, BMW displayed a stylish retro-inspired concept car, the Z07. The Henrik Fisker-designed concept was initially intended to merely exist as a sole concept, however the incredible reception and overwhelmingly positive acclaim spurred the decision to put it into limited serial production in 1999.

The resulting Z8 remained remarkably faithful to the Z07 concept, with the 507-like twin-nostril front grille and distinctive front-wing vents. A period-style interior had been one of the Z07's most remarked upon features, and that too made it into the Z8, including a banjo-style steering wheel. The sleek and taught bodywork was all wrought in aluminum, as was the space-frame chassis. The 4,941cc V8 engine was aluminum as well, a 400-horsepower power-plant that motivates this lithe roadster to 60mph in a scant 4.2 seconds. Needless to say, the Z8 was fitted with all the luxury appointments befitting a flagship model: traction control, stability control, front and side air bags, GPS navigation, climate control and power operation of the seats, steering wheel and convertible top.

Along with being a stunning, hand built limited-production roadster, BMW further enhanced the Z8's appeal to collectors by announcing that a 50-year stockpile of Z8 parts would be maintained. Despite a hefty launch price, initial demand was so high that a bidding war broke out, with many Z8s selling for well in excess of MSRP. By the time production ceased in 2003, 5,703 of these fabulous cars had been built.

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