ot 48 L 2001 BMW Z8 Roadster
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Less Than 3000 built for US Market
Designer: Chris Bangle
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All Aluminum Chassis
Estimate: $40,000 - $65,000
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Collector Quality Preservation
Chassis Number: WBAEJ13421AH60305 Engine:4.9 Liter Aluminum V-8 6-speed manual transmission Power Assisted Four Wheel Hydraulic Disc Brakes Odometer: 8,950 Miles
The Model: When designers began designing the Z8, they had one building principal: to evoke memories of the BMW 507. That sporty Beemer from the late 60s featured a sporty stance, chrome side vents and a horizontal grille, and a V-8 engine, all traits that carried over to the design of the Z8. The younger, however, features an all-aluminum chassis and engine. That lightweight V-8 packed a punch, producing 400 HP and was positioned completely behind the front axle giving the car remarkable balance. Performance for the BMW, as measured by car mags of the time, would best the Ferrari 360 Modena in acceleration, handling and braking. At $128,000 to get it off the showroom floor though, it was only slightly more affordable than the Ferrari. The Car: The Titanium Silver paint shines like the day it left the factory a product of careful storage that only saw the roadster turn the clock to just over 8,000 miles. The factory supplied color-matched hardtop also still accompanies the car. The barley used black interior remains just as the BMW designers intended, clean and complete, making this a perfect candidate for the most discerning collectors. While the V-8 rarely gets out to stretch, the modern performer fires to life every time asked. While it would be tempting to grab this open-top performer and put it to the test on the back roads, but given the low miles and impeccable this BMW belongs in a proper collection, providing future generations a glimpse into the BMW legacy.
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