SOLD 2002 BMW Z8 Roadster

Homage to 507

Produced between 2000-2003, the sporting 6-speed manual version of the BMW Z8 was the spiritual successor to the legendary 507 of the late 1950’s. With aesthetics by famed automotive designer Henrik Fisker, this superbly proportioned German sports car had an MSRP of $130,000  when new, featuring small doors, curvaceous fenders, 507 inspired side louvers and an undeniably racy, low-slung stance that gives the car a unique aura of both classic and fresh. Because of its almost “concept car” feel in its design and the boutique aura that has followed the Z8 since its inception, it has dramatically outperformed contemporaries cars such as the Ferrari 360, Aston Martin DB7 Vantage Volante and Porsche 911 Cabriolet from the perspective of investment and value. Famously, the Z8 was showcased as James Bond’s car in the movie The World Is Not Enough, released just prior to the car hitting the market. 

Aesthetic beauty aside, the BMW Z8 is also known for its enviable acceleration, handling and braking prowess, a car notable as particularly exhilarating while behind the wheel. The Z8 has an all-aluminum chassis and body with forged independent suspension components and is powered by an M5 4.9 liter quad-cam V8 engine mounted behind the front axel for optimal weight distribution while delivering 400hp with a 0-60mph speed of 4.2 seconds. While the engine ramps up to 1000 rpm, one could be forgiven for thinking a wolf does not exist inside the car. But as you approach 3000 rpm, the wolf shows its teeth and the Z8’s character comes fully alive through sound and sheer pace of movement. Whether it functionally matters to the human eye or not, the Z8 utilizes neon exterior lighting with tail lights and turn signals powered by neon tubes that offer quicker activation than standard lighting systems, designed to keep pace with the cars blistering performance specs.

Every Z8 that BMW produced was shipped with a body line accentuating, color matching metal hard top that is easily removable with a built in rear defroster system. Essentially everything seen in the Z8 cabin is bespoke to the model, and it is done in a fashion that allows the car to remain an artistic masterpiece while providing unexpected comfort. The interior of the car is particularly well laid out with power windows and mirrors controlled by a single instrument while the center located instrument cluster is canted slightly towards the driver. The displacement of the gauges towards the middle of the dash offers a free, unimpeded view of the hood and oncoming road lending to a more visceral driving experience. Uniquely, the model type, Z8, is featured in the interior of the car in between the seats, whereas on other high end BMW’s the model is displayed on the rear of the car.

This particular Z8 Roadster was purchased new by its only private owner from Sterling BMW of Newport Beach on February 13th, 2002. The car was delivered in Titanium Silver paint over full black Nappa leather. The car has traveled a mere 3,811 miles and has always been garage kept in a climate controlled environment. This car comes with original books, window sticker, medical kit, tools, dealership brochures, BMW welcome package with CD, two keys and car phone. This BMW Z8 Roadster is a collector grade example given its low mileage, superb original condition and one owner from new history. Ready for daily driving as desired, recently fully serviced and fitted with new Pirelli run flat tires.