BMW Z1

BMW Z1 retro car
BMW Z1
The BMW Z1 was first shown at the Frankfurt Motor Show in 1987. This small two seat roadster aided BMW in attaining patents such as, high intensity discharge lamps and integrated roll bar. The body of the car was made from innovative plastic and was designed to be extremely aerodynamic. The entire body could be removed. BMW suggested that owners could purchase a seconded set of body panels so they could change the color of there car when they wanted to. BMW claimed that the body could be completely replace in 40 minutes. The BMW Z1 had interesting electrically operated doors that dropped down into the body when opened. It was one of the first BMWs to have a multi-link type rear suspension.
 BMW Z1 side
 BMW Z1
 Produced from 1989 to 1991, only 8,000 BMW Z1 were made. Most of them (6,443 cars) sold in Germany. Even by today’s standards this cars styling aged very well and the body still looks modern. Because of low production numbers and the importance and significance of the new technologies featured in this BMW Z1, it has become a collectable model. One notable owner of this BMW Z1 was Top Gear presenter Jeremy Clarkson. This formula of a compact two-seat roadster would continue in the Z3 model that was launched in 1996. This is one of my favorite BMW models from this era.
 BMW Z1 in red
 BMW Z1
The engine (BMW M20B25) and transmission (5 Speed Manual, Getrag 260/5) were sourced from the 325i. It was a 2.5L SOHC 12 valve inline six-cylinder that produced 170 horsepower and 164 foot-pounds of torque. This BMW Z1 engine allowed a top speed of 144mph and a zero to 62 mph acceleration time of 9.0 seconds.
 BMW Z1 rear
 BMW Z1
 BMW Z1 review
 BMW Z1





BMW Z1 wheels

BMW Z1