2001 BMW Z8 | WBAEJ13421AH61146

Body Styles

The BMW Z8 is a two-door, two-seat roadster featuring a classic long-hood, short-deck silhouette inspired by the legendary BMW 507. Measuring approximately 4,400 mm in length and just under 1,800 mm in width, it sits low and wide with fluid proportions. The aluminum body panels, rounded fenders, and minimalist front grille evoke retro design cues, while the wraparound windshield and retractable soft top underscore its grand touring spirit. The low cowl and seating position place the driver close to the rear axle, amplifying the sensation of control and agility. With flush body lines and hidden technology, it remains one of BMW’s most sculpturally elegant creations.

Model Name Meaning (Manufacturer)

The designation “Z” in BMW nomenclature stands for “Zukunft,” which means “future” in German, symbolizing a forward-looking approach to design and innovation. The number “8” refers to the model’s place at the top of BMW’s roadster lineup, positioning it as the most luxurious and powerful open-top model of its era.

Body & Interior Colors and Rims

The Z8's exterior color palette featured timeless metallic shades like Titanium Silver, Topaz Blue, and Stratus Gray, alongside vibrant choices such as Bright Red and Black Sapphire Metallic. The finishes were deeply lustrous, emphasizing the hand-formed aluminum panels and the roadster's graceful surfacing. The rare Alpina Roadster V8 version was most often finished in Alpina Blue or Jet Black, with subtle Alpina striping on request.

Inside, the Z8 was upholstered in hand-stitched Nappa leather with contrasting dashboard elements, available in tones such as Black, Crema, Sport Red, and dual-color combinations like Crema/Black or Red/Black. Brushed aluminum was applied extensively to the console and steering column, while unique retro-modern elements—like the center-mounted instrument cluster—created a cabin aesthetic that was clean, analog, and deeply premium. Every detail was crafted to enhance the sense of exclusivity and homage.

The car sat on staggered 18-inch five-spoke forged alloy wheels with 8-inch fronts and 9.5-inch rears, finished in high-polish silver. These wheels added visual impact while providing excellent brake ventilation. The Alpina model wore exclusive 20-inch multi-spoke alloy wheels in signature silver or matte graphite, emphasizing comfort and visual drama over outright sharpness.

Top Expensive Options

• Hardtop with heated rear glass: $3,700
• BMW Individual Paint Finish: $4,000
• Red/Black Nappa Leather Interior: $2,800
• Matching Leather-Covered Roll Bars: $2,100
• 18" Forged Alloy Wheels with Custom Finish: $2,000
• Alpina Multi-Spoke 20" Wheels (Alpina only): $6,000
• BMW Premium Audio Package: $1,900
• BMW Cell Phone Integration (Early GSM): $1,200
• Rear Wind Deflector: $800
• Custom Fitted Luggage Set: $5,000

vs Competitors

In its era, the BMW Z8 competed with a broad range of luxury and performance icons, including the Ferrari 360 Spider, Mercedes-Benz SL600, and Porsche 911 Turbo (996). While the Ferrari boasted superior outright performance and the 911 Turbo delivered all-weather usability, the Z8 struck a rare balance of timeless design, analog engagement, and everyday elegance. The Mercedes offered more comfort and gadgets, but lacked the visceral charm of the BMW’s high-revving V8 and classic roadster ethos. The Z8’s rarity, connection to the legendary 507, and use of M-division mechanicals gave it a depth of character unmatched by more clinical rivals. Even today, it is viewed as an appreciating collector's item—more than a car, it's a statement.

Fun Fact

Every BMW Z8 was hand-built at a special facility in Munich, with aluminum spaceframes manufactured by hand at BMW’s Dingolfing plant. Despite its high performance, BMW included a 50-year parts guarantee for the Z8, a promise of long-term stewardship that underlined the brand’s belief in the car’s enduring value and classic status. Fittingly, the Z8 was also James Bond's car of choice in The World Is Not Enough, further cementing its cult status in automotive and cinematic history.