BMW Z8: Difference between revisions
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{{Short description|Car model}} |
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{{Use dmy dates|date=June 2018}} |
{{Use dmy dates|date=June 2018}} |
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{{Infobox automobile |
{{Infobox automobile |
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| image = BMW Z8 (2009-05-20).JPG |
| image = BMW Z8 (2009-05-20).JPG |
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| name = BMW Z8 (E52) |
| name = BMW Z8 (E52) |
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| production = |
| production = 1998–2003<br>5,703 produced |
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| assembly = Germany: [[Munich]] |
| assembly = Germany: [[Munich]] |
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| class = [[Sports car]] ([[s-segment|S]]) |
| class = [[Sports car]] ([[s-segment|S]]) |
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| platform = |
| platform = |
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| layout = Longitudinally mounted front engine, [[rear-wheel drive]] |
| layout = Longitudinally mounted front engine, [[rear-wheel drive]] |
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| engine = 4.9 L ''[[BMW S62|S62]]'' V8<br>4.8 L ''[[BMW M62|M62]]'' V8 (Alpina version) |
| engine = 4.9 L ''[[BMW S62|S62]]'' V8<br />4.8 L ''[[BMW M62|M62]]'' V8 (Alpina version) |
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| transmission = 6-speed [[manual transmission|manual]]<br>5-speed [[automatic transmission|automatic]] (Alpina version) |
| transmission = 6-speed [[manual transmission|manual]]<br />5-speed [[automatic transmission|automatic]] (Alpina version) |
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| wheelbase = {{convert|98.6|in|mm|0|abbr=on}} |
| wheelbase = {{convert|98.6|in|mm|0|abbr=on}} |
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| length = {{convert|173.2|in|mm|0|abbr=on}} |
| length = {{convert|173.2|in|mm|0|abbr=on}} |
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| height = {{convert|51.9|in|mm|0|abbr=on}} |
| height = {{convert|51.9|in|mm|0|abbr=on}} |
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| weight = {{convert|3494|lb|abbr=on}}<ref> |
| weight = {{convert|3494|lb|abbr=on}}<ref> |
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{{cite web|url=http://media.caranddriver.com/files/aston-martin-db7-vs-bmw-z8-ferrari-360-spiderthe-princes-of-performance-2.pdf|title= |
{{cite web|url=http://media.caranddriver.com/files/aston-martin-db7-vs-bmw-z8-ferrari-360-spiderthe-princes-of-performance-2.pdf|title= Aston Martin DB7 vs. BMW Z8, Ferrari 360 Spider Comparison Test | work = Car and Driver }}</ref> |
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| model_years = 1999–2003 |
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| designer = [[Henrik Fisker]]<br>Scott Lempert (interior) |
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}} |
}} |
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The '''BMW Z8''' is a [[Roadster (automobile)|roadster]] produced by German automotive manufacturer [[BMW]] from |
The '''BMW Z8''' is a [[Roadster (automobile)|roadster]] produced by German automotive manufacturer [[BMW]] from 1998 to 2003. The Z8 was developed under the codename "E52" between 1993 and 1999, through the efforts of a design team led by [[Chris Bangle]] from 1993 to 1995.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.bmwz8.us/forum/bmw-z8-history-technical-info-pdf-movies/z8-history-29.html |title=Z8 History |publisher=Bmwz8.us |access-date=2018-08-25 |archive-date=6 February 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230206200259/http://www.bmwz8.us/forum/bmw-z8-history-technical-info-pdf-movies/z8-history-29.html |url-status=dead }}</ref> The exterior was designed by [[Henrik Fisker]] and the interior by Scott Lempert.<ref>The BMW Z8 birth book/coffee table book which was issued to every BMW Z8 owner</ref> |
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The Z8 originally was designed as a styling exercise intended to evoke and celebrate the 1956–1959 [[BMW 507]]. Prototypes were spotted testing between 1996 and 1999.<ref>http://www.bmwz8.us/pdf/1996_06_car.pdf</ref> A concept was later developed to preview the Z8, called the Z07 and was showcased in October 1997 at the [[Tokyo Motor Show#1997|Tokyo Motor Show]]. |
The Z8 originally was designed as a styling exercise intended to evoke and celebrate the 1956–1959 [[BMW 507]]. Prototypes were spotted testing between 1996 and 1999.<ref>{{cite magazine | url = http://www.bmwz8.us/pdf/1996_06_car.pdf | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20171223042554/http://www.bmwz8.us/pdf/1996_06_car.pdf | archive-date = 2017-12-23 | title = Z3's big brother breaks cover | magazine = [[Car (magazine)|Car]] | page = 15 | editor-first = Hilton | editor-last = Holloway | date = June 1996 | via = BMW Z8 US }}</ref> A concept was later developed to preview the Z8, called the Z07 and was showcased in October 1997 at the [[Tokyo Motor Show#1997|Tokyo Motor Show]]. |
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==Z07 Concept== |
==Z07 Concept== |
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The Z07 Concept had been based on the concurrently running E52 development programme. As a result, practical and regulatory considerations necessitated very few changes for the production model. Comparatively, the windshield of the series production Z8 was more upward, and the car had a larger front airdam. The Z8 hardtop differed from the Z07 in being a double-bubble form with a tapering |
The Z07 Concept had been based on the concurrently running E52 development programme. As a result, practical and regulatory considerations necessitated very few changes for the production model. Comparatively, the windshield of the series production Z8 was more upward, and the car had a larger front airdam. The Z8 hardtop differed from the Z07 in being a double-bubble form with a tapering fairing versus a single dome with a truncated convex rear.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.bmwblog.com/2015/05/20/flashback-bmw-z07-concept/|title=BMW Z07 Concept|date=2015-05-20|work=BMW BLOG|access-date=2018-08-13|language=en-US}}</ref> The Z07's exotic driver's side helmet fairing was never intended for production, in order to allow easy operation of the power soft top. |
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[[File:BMW 507.jpg|thumb|left|The Z07 was an homage to the iconic [[BMW 507]]]] |
[[File:BMW 507.jpg|thumb|left|The Z07 was an homage to the iconic [[BMW 507]]]] |
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The [[ |
The [[Automotive lighting#Side turn signals|side turn signal repeaters]] were integrated into the side vents in a fashion that rendered them invisible until activated. The vintage simplicity of the interior was preserved by hiding the modern equipment under retracting panels. Complex compound curves were made through the use of an expensive [[Gas metal arc welding|MIG-welded aluminium]] [[space frame]]. |
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{{ |
{{Clear}} |
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==Specifications and features== |
==Specifications and features== |
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[[File:BMW, Techno Classica 2018, Essen (IMG 8933).jpg|thumb|Unlike many BMW models, the only Z8 badging was on the interior of the car rather than at the rear]] |
[[File:BMW, Techno Classica 2018, Essen (IMG 8933).jpg|thumb|Unlike many BMW models, the only Z8 badging was on the interior of the car rather than at the rear]] |
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The Z8 cost US$128,000, had an all-aluminium chassis and body,<ref>{{cite |
The Z8 cost US$128,000, had an all-aluminium chassis and body,<ref>{{cite news |title=BMW's Z8: Structurally Shaky? |url=https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2006-01-18/bmws-z8-structurally-shaky-businessweek-business-news-stock-market-and-financial-advice |newspaper=Bloomberg |date=19 January 2006 |access-date=9 November 2019}}</ref> and used a {{convert|4941|cc|L cuin|1|abbr=on}} [[V8 engine]] which has a power output of {{convert|400|PS|kW hp|0|abbr=on}} at 6,600 rpm and {{convert|500|Nm|0|abbr=on}} of torque at 3,800 rpm. This engine, known internally as the [[BMW S62|S62]], was built by [[BMW Motorsport]] and was shared with the [[BMW M5#E39|E39 M5]] sports saloon. The engine is located behind the front axle in order to provide the car with a 50/50 weight distribution. The factory claimed a {{convert|0|-|100|km/h|mph|abbr=on}} acceleration time of 4.7 seconds; ''[[Motor Trend]]'' magazine achieved {{convert|0|-|96|km/h|mph|abbr=on}} in 4.2 seconds. ''[[Road & Track]]'' measured the car's lateral grip at 0.92. ''[[Car and Driver]]'' magazine also tested the car and found that it outperformed the contemporary benchmark [[Ferrari 360 Modena]] in three important performance categories: [[acceleration]], [[car handling|handling]], and [[braking]]. As with most BMW automobiles the top speed of the Z8 was electronically limited to {{convert|155.4|mph|km/h|0|abbr=on|order=flip}} with the delimited top speed amounting to an estimated {{cvt|180|mph|kph|0|abbr=on|order=flip}}. |
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The Z8 used neon exterior lighting, the tail lights and turn indicators are powered by neon tubes that offer quicker activation than standard lightbulbs and are expected to last for the life of the vehicle. Due to the quirk in the [[ |
The Z8 used neon exterior lighting, the tail lights and turn indicators are powered by neon tubes that offer quicker activation than standard lightbulbs and are expected to last for the life of the vehicle. Due to the quirk in the [[Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards|US FMVSS regulations]], the turn signal indicators in the tail lights are entirely in red colour. |
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Every car was shipped with a colour-matching metal hardtop with a rear defroster. Unlike many contemporary hardtops, which are provided for practical rather than stylistic considerations, the hardtop of the Z8 was designed from the outset to complement the lines of the car's styling. |
Every car was shipped with a colour-matching metal hardtop with a rear defroster. Unlike many contemporary hardtops, which are provided for practical rather than stylistic considerations, the hardtop of the Z8 was designed from the outset to complement the lines of the car's styling. |
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In order to promote the Z8 to collectors and reinforce media speculation about the car's "instant classic" potential, BMW promised that a 50-year stockpile of spare parts would be maintained in order to support the Z8 fleet. Due to the limited volume of production, all elements of the car were constructed or finished by hand, thereby compounding the importance of ongoing manufacturer support for the type. The price and production process allowed BMW to offer customised options to interested buyers. A significant number of cars with bespoke paint and interior treatments were produced over the course of the four-year production run by BMW Individual, a division of BMW AG. |
In order to promote the Z8 to collectors and reinforce media speculation about the car's "instant classic" potential, BMW promised that a 50-year stockpile of spare parts would be maintained in order to support the Z8 fleet. Due to the limited volume of production, all elements of the car were constructed or finished by hand, thereby compounding the importance of ongoing manufacturer support for the type. The price and production process allowed BMW to offer customised options to interested buyers. A significant number of cars with bespoke paint and interior treatments were produced over the course of the four-year production run by BMW Individual, a division of BMW AG. |
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===Z8 Safety Car=== |
===Z8 Safety Car=== |
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A [[safety car]] variant of the Z8 was produced<ref>{{cite web|title=Z8 History|url=http://www.bmwz8.us/forum/showthread.php?t=29&p=660&viewfull=1#post660|website=bmwz8.us|access-date=31 August 2017|language=en}}</ref> |
A [[safety car]] variant of the Z8 was produced for use in the 2001 season of [[MotoGP]].<ref>{{cite web|title=Z8 History|url=http://www.bmwz8.us/forum/showthread.php?t=29&p=660&viewfull=1#post660|website=bmwz8.us|access-date=31 August 2017|language=en}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|title=BMW M MotoGP|url=https://www.bmw-m.com/en/fastlane/motogp.html|website=bmw-m.com|access-date=31 August 2017}}</ref> |
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{{clear}} |
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With production of the Z8 completed by November 2002, the Z8 was replaced by the [[Alpina Burkard Bovensiepen|Alpina]] Roadster V8 in 2003.<ref name="Car and Driver" /> The Alpina was a departure from the hard-edged sporting focus of the original car, and elements of grand touring intent were evident throughout this final iteration. Instead of the original 6-speed manual and 4.9 L ([[BMW S62|S62]]) engine featured in original Z8, the Alpina came only with an automatic transmission, utilising a 5-speed [[BMW Steptronic]] transmission mated to a 4.8 L Alpina-tuned [[BMW M62]] V8 engine from the Alpina E39 B10 V8 S. In order to complete the car's transition from a sports car to a refined grand tourer, a softer suspension setting was used. The standard Z8's [[run-flat tyres]] on {{convert|18|in|cm|abbr=on}} wheels were discarded in favor of conventional tyres with softer sidewalls mounted on {{convert|20|in|cm|abbr=on}} Alpina wheels.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.topgear.com/car-news/classic/lets-all-stare-gorgeous-z8-alpina-roadster|title=Let's all stare at this gorgeous Z8 Alpina Roadster|date=2018-05-23|work=Top Gear|access-date=2018-08-13|language=en}}</ref> A new softer grade of Nappa leather replaced the Z8's less supple specification, and special Alpina gauges were fitted on the dash board cluster. An Alpina steering wheel with three solid spokes replaced the original, which could not be retrofitted with shift paddles for the automatic transmission. Gear selection was displayed in an Alpina-specific display mounted in front of the steering wheel. |
With production of the Z8 completed by November 2002, the Z8 was replaced by the [[Alpina Burkard Bovensiepen|Alpina]] Roadster V8 in 2003.<ref name="Car and Driver" /> The Alpina was a departure from the hard-edged sporting focus of the original car, and elements of grand touring intent were evident throughout this final iteration. Instead of the original 6-speed manual and 4.9 L ([[BMW S62|S62]]) engine featured in original Z8, the Alpina came only with an automatic transmission, utilising a 5-speed [[BMW Steptronic]] transmission mated to a 4.8 L Alpina-tuned [[BMW M62]] V8 engine from the Alpina E39 B10 V8 S. In order to complete the car's transition from a sports car to a refined grand tourer, a softer suspension setting was used. The standard Z8's [[run-flat tyres]] on {{convert|18|in|cm|abbr=on}} wheels were discarded in favor of conventional tyres with softer sidewalls mounted on {{convert|20|in|cm|abbr=on}} Alpina wheels.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.topgear.com/car-news/classic/lets-all-stare-gorgeous-z8-alpina-roadster|title=Let's all stare at this gorgeous Z8 Alpina Roadster|date=2018-05-23|work=Top Gear|access-date=2018-08-13|language=en}}</ref> A new softer grade of Nappa leather replaced the Z8's less supple specification, and special Alpina gauges were fitted on the dash board cluster. An Alpina steering wheel with three solid spokes replaced the original, which could not be retrofitted with shift paddles for the automatic transmission. Gear selection was displayed in an Alpina-specific display mounted in front of the steering wheel. |
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Performance and power output of the Alpina roadster V8 differed from that of the standard car in that the peak power was reduced to {{Convert|280|kW|PS hp|0||abbr=on}}, while peak torque was raised to {{convert| |
Performance and power output of the Alpina roadster V8 differed from that of the standard car in that the peak power was reduced to {{Convert|280|kW|PS hp|0||abbr=on}}, while peak torque was raised to {{convert|520|Nm|lbft|0|abbr=on}}; this torque was available at significantly lower rpm than the original in order to enable more relaxed cruising.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.bmwblog.com/2017/08/28/alpina-z8-roadster-asking-244900-come-home/|title=Alpina Z8 Roadster Is Asking for $244,900 to Come Home with You|date=2017-08-28|work=BMW BLOG|access-date=2018-08-13|language=en-US}}{{Dead link|date=September 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot |fix-attempted=yes }}</ref> Curiously, the electronically limited top speed was officially raised to {{convert|260|km/h|mph|abbr=on|}}.<ref name="Car and Driver">{{cite web|last=Hutton|first=Ray|title=BMW Alpina Roadster V-8|url=http://www.caranddriver.com/reviews/bmw-alpina-roadster-v-8-first-drive-review|work=Car and Driver|date=February 2003|access-date=16 March 2012}}</ref> |
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Production of the Roadster V8 amounted to 555 units, 450 of which were exported to the U.S. market and only eight to the UK.<ref>{{cite web|last=Buckley|first=Martin|title=BMW Aplina Roadster V8|url=http://www.evo.co.uk/carreviews/evocarreviews/32925/bmw_aplina_roadster_v8.html|work=Evo| |
Production of the Roadster V8 amounted to 555 units, 450 of which were exported to the U.S. market and only eight to the UK.<ref>{{cite web|last=Buckley|first=Martin|title=BMW Aplina Roadster V8 | url = http://www.evo.co.uk/carreviews/evocarreviews/32925/bmw_aplina_roadster_v8.html|work=Evo| date = January 2003 | archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20120805003436/http://www.evo.co.uk/carreviews/evocarreviews/32925/bmw_aplina_roadster_v8.html|archive-date=5 August 2012|url-status=dead}}</ref> In the United States, this special edition of the Z8 was sold directly through BMW dealerships, marking a first for Alpina, whose cars had never been sold through retail channels in the U.S. |
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{{Clear}} |
{{Clear}} |
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==Bertone Birusa== |
==Bertone Birusa== |
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[[File:Bertone Birusa 2003 1.jpg|thumb|[[Bertone Birusa]] concept]] |
[[File:Bertone Birusa 2003 1.jpg|thumb|[[Bertone Birusa]] concept]] |
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Unveiled at the [[Geneva Motor Show#2003|2003 Geneva Motor Show]], the [[Bertone Birusa|Birusa]] is a futuristically styled concept car conceived and developed by [[Gruppo Bertone|Bertone]]. Based on the Z8, it shares the 4.9 L [[V8 engine]] from the donor car generating {{Convert|400|PS|kW hp|0|abbr=on}} mated to a 6-speed manual transmission and has carbon fibre [[ |
Unveiled at the [[Geneva Motor Show#2003|2003 Geneva Motor Show]], the [[Bertone Birusa|Birusa]] is a futuristically styled concept car conceived and developed by [[Gruppo Bertone|Bertone]]. Based on the Z8, it shares the 4.9 L [[V8 engine]] from the donor car generating {{Convert|400|PS|kW hp|0|abbr=on}} mated to a 6-speed manual transmission and has carbon fibre [[gull-wing door]]s.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.diseno-art.com/encyclopedia/concept_cars/bertone_birusa.html|title= Concept Cars: Bertone Birusa | work = Diseno-Art | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20191231142107/http://www.diseno-art.com/encyclopedia/concept_cars/bertone_birusa.html | archive-date=2019-12-31}}</ref> It also has a variety of innovative technological features including a sunroof that filters UV light, multilingual voice control and a night vision system.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.motor1.com/news/180973/concept-we-forgot-bertone-birusa/|title=2003 Bertone Birusa: Concept We Forgot|work=Motor1.com|access-date=2018-11-01|language=en}}</ref> |
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==Production== |
==Production== |
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==In popular culture== |
==In popular culture== |
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[[File:The World Is Not Enough - BMW Z8.jpg|thumb|The BMW Z8 featured in the James Bond film ''[[The World Is Not Enough]]'']] |
[[File:The World Is Not Enough - BMW Z8.jpg|thumb|The BMW Z8 featured in the James Bond film ''[[The World Is Not Enough]]'']] |
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The Z8 was showcased as [[James Bond|James Bond's]] car in the film ''[[The World Is Not Enough]]'' released in November 1999, from scenes shot in early April 1999. In the film, it is driven by Bond for his mission in [[Azerbaijan]] until it is sliced in half by a helicopter equipped with cutting saws.<ref>{{cite web|title=Annual Report 2000 |url=http://www.bmwgroup.com/publikationen/e/2002/pdf/01_BMW_GeBe2000_en.pdf |work=BMW |access-date=16 March 2012 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130620064718/http://www.bmwgroup.com/publikationen/e/2002/pdf/01_BMW_GeBe2000_en.pdf |archive-date=20 June 2013 }}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.azer.com/aiweb/categories/magazine/73_folder/73_articles/73_bond.html |title=7.3 007-The World Is Not Enough |publisher=Azer.com |date=1942-09-25 |access-date=2018-08-25}}</ref> The vehicle is equipped with surface to air missiles that is mostly activated through the car's steering wheel used as a targeting display, and can also be remote controlled through the use of the vehicle's keychain. This was the final BMW car to appear in the James Bond franchise as its 3 |
The Z8 was showcased as [[James Bond|James Bond's]] car in the film ''[[The World Is Not Enough]]'' released in November 1999, from scenes shot in early April 1999. In the film, it is driven by Bond for his mission in [[Azerbaijan]] until it is sliced in half by a helicopter equipped with cutting saws.<ref>{{cite web|title=Annual Report 2000 |url=http://www.bmwgroup.com/publikationen/e/2002/pdf/01_BMW_GeBe2000_en.pdf |work=BMW |access-date=16 March 2012 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130620064718/http://www.bmwgroup.com/publikationen/e/2002/pdf/01_BMW_GeBe2000_en.pdf |archive-date=20 June 2013 }}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.azer.com/aiweb/categories/magazine/73_folder/73_articles/73_bond.html |title=7.3 007-The World Is Not Enough |publisher=Azer.com |date=1942-09-25 |access-date=2018-08-25}}</ref> The vehicle is equipped with surface to air missiles that is mostly activated through the car's steering wheel used as a targeting display, and can also be remote controlled through the use of the vehicle's keychain. This was the final BMW car to appear in the James Bond franchise as its 3-year film deal with BMW expired. It later reappeared in the James Bond video games ''[[007 Racing]]'' and ''[[Agent Under Fire]]'', the latter of which featured the car on the cover. |
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==U.S. sales== |
==U.S. sales== |
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==References== |
==References== |
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{{reflist|30em}} |
{{reflist|30em}} |
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==External links== |
==External links== |
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*{{Commons category-inline|BMW Z8|BMW Z8 (E52)}} |
*{{Commons category-inline|BMW Z8|BMW Z8 (E52)}} |
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{{BMW cars: 1980s to 2000s}} |
{{BMW cars: 1980s to 2000s}} |
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{{DEFAULTSORT:Bmw Z8}} |
{{DEFAULTSORT:Bmw Z8}} |
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[[Category:BMW vehicles|Z8]] |
[[Category:BMW vehicles|Z8]] |
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[[Category:Cars introduced in 2000]] |
[[Category:Cars introduced in 2000]] |
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[[Category: |
[[Category:Cars discontinued in 2003]] |
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[[Category:Roadsters]] |
[[Category:Roadsters]] |
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[[Category:Rear-wheel-drive vehicles]] |
[[Category:Rear-wheel-drive vehicles]] |
Latest revision as of 20:04, 12 August 2024
BMW Z8 (E52) | |
---|---|
Overview | |
Production | 1998–2003 5,703 produced |
Model years | 1999–2003 |
Assembly | Germany: Munich |
Designer | Henrik Fisker Scott Lempert (interior) |
Body and chassis | |
Class | Sports car (S) |
Body style | 2-door roadster |
Layout | Longitudinally mounted front engine, rear-wheel drive |
Powertrain | |
Engine | 4.9 L S62 V8 4.8 L M62 V8 (Alpina version) |
Transmission | 6-speed manual 5-speed automatic (Alpina version) |
Dimensions | |
Wheelbase | 98.6 in (2,504 mm) |
Length | 173.2 in (4,399 mm) |
Width | 72 in (1,829 mm) |
Height | 51.9 in (1,318 mm) |
Curb weight | 3,494 lb (1,585 kg)[1] |
The BMW Z8 is a roadster produced by German automotive manufacturer BMW from 1998 to 2003. The Z8 was developed under the codename "E52" between 1993 and 1999, through the efforts of a design team led by Chris Bangle from 1993 to 1995.[2] The exterior was designed by Henrik Fisker and the interior by Scott Lempert.[3]
The Z8 originally was designed as a styling exercise intended to evoke and celebrate the 1956–1959 BMW 507. Prototypes were spotted testing between 1996 and 1999.[4] A concept was later developed to preview the Z8, called the Z07 and was showcased in October 1997 at the Tokyo Motor Show.
Z07 Concept
[edit]The Z07 Concept had been based on the concurrently running E52 development programme. As a result, practical and regulatory considerations necessitated very few changes for the production model. Comparatively, the windshield of the series production Z8 was more upward, and the car had a larger front airdam. The Z8 hardtop differed from the Z07 in being a double-bubble form with a tapering fairing versus a single dome with a truncated convex rear.[5] The Z07's exotic driver's side helmet fairing was never intended for production, in order to allow easy operation of the power soft top.
The side turn signal repeaters were integrated into the side vents in a fashion that rendered them invisible until activated. The vintage simplicity of the interior was preserved by hiding the modern equipment under retracting panels. Complex compound curves were made through the use of an expensive MIG-welded aluminium space frame.
Specifications and features
[edit]The Z8 cost US$128,000, had an all-aluminium chassis and body,[6] and used a 4,941 cc (4.9 L; 301.5 cu in) V8 engine which has a power output of 400 PS (294 kW; 395 hp) at 6,600 rpm and 500 N⋅m (369 lbf⋅ft) of torque at 3,800 rpm. This engine, known internally as the S62, was built by BMW Motorsport and was shared with the E39 M5 sports saloon. The engine is located behind the front axle in order to provide the car with a 50/50 weight distribution. The factory claimed a 0–100 km/h (0–62 mph) acceleration time of 4.7 seconds; Motor Trend magazine achieved 0–96 km/h (0–60 mph) in 4.2 seconds. Road & Track measured the car's lateral grip at 0.92. Car and Driver magazine also tested the car and found that it outperformed the contemporary benchmark Ferrari 360 Modena in three important performance categories: acceleration, handling, and braking. As with most BMW automobiles the top speed of the Z8 was electronically limited to 250 km/h (155.4 mph) with the delimited top speed amounting to an estimated 290 km/h (180 mph).
The Z8 used neon exterior lighting, the tail lights and turn indicators are powered by neon tubes that offer quicker activation than standard lightbulbs and are expected to last for the life of the vehicle. Due to the quirk in the US FMVSS regulations, the turn signal indicators in the tail lights are entirely in red colour.
Every car was shipped with a colour-matching metal hardtop with a rear defroster. Unlike many contemporary hardtops, which are provided for practical rather than stylistic considerations, the hardtop of the Z8 was designed from the outset to complement the lines of the car's styling.
In order to keep the interior uncluttered, a number of functions were integrated into multifunction controls. For example, the power windows and mirrors were controlled by a single instrument. Also, the centre-mounted instrument cluster was canted slightly toward the driver. The displacement of gauges to the middle of the dashboard was intended to offer an unimpeded view of the hood and the road ahead.
In order to promote the Z8 to collectors and reinforce media speculation about the car's "instant classic" potential, BMW promised that a 50-year stockpile of spare parts would be maintained in order to support the Z8 fleet. Due to the limited volume of production, all elements of the car were constructed or finished by hand, thereby compounding the importance of ongoing manufacturer support for the type. The price and production process allowed BMW to offer customised options to interested buyers. A significant number of cars with bespoke paint and interior treatments were produced over the course of the four-year production run by BMW Individual, a division of BMW AG.
Z8 Safety Car
[edit]A safety car variant of the Z8 was produced for use in the 2001 season of MotoGP.[7][8]
Alpina Roadster V8
[edit]With production of the Z8 completed by November 2002, the Z8 was replaced by the Alpina Roadster V8 in 2003.[9] The Alpina was a departure from the hard-edged sporting focus of the original car, and elements of grand touring intent were evident throughout this final iteration. Instead of the original 6-speed manual and 4.9 L (S62) engine featured in original Z8, the Alpina came only with an automatic transmission, utilising a 5-speed BMW Steptronic transmission mated to a 4.8 L Alpina-tuned BMW M62 V8 engine from the Alpina E39 B10 V8 S. In order to complete the car's transition from a sports car to a refined grand tourer, a softer suspension setting was used. The standard Z8's run-flat tyres on 18 in (46 cm) wheels were discarded in favor of conventional tyres with softer sidewalls mounted on 20 in (51 cm) Alpina wheels.[10] A new softer grade of Nappa leather replaced the Z8's less supple specification, and special Alpina gauges were fitted on the dash board cluster. An Alpina steering wheel with three solid spokes replaced the original, which could not be retrofitted with shift paddles for the automatic transmission. Gear selection was displayed in an Alpina-specific display mounted in front of the steering wheel.
Performance and power output of the Alpina roadster V8 differed from that of the standard car in that the peak power was reduced to 280 kW (381 PS; 375 hp), while peak torque was raised to 520 N⋅m (384 lb⋅ft); this torque was available at significantly lower rpm than the original in order to enable more relaxed cruising.[11] Curiously, the electronically limited top speed was officially raised to 260 km/h (160 mph).[9]
Production of the Roadster V8 amounted to 555 units, 450 of which were exported to the U.S. market and only eight to the UK.[12] In the United States, this special edition of the Z8 was sold directly through BMW dealerships, marking a first for Alpina, whose cars had never been sold through retail channels in the U.S.
Bertone Birusa
[edit]Unveiled at the 2003 Geneva Motor Show, the Birusa is a futuristically styled concept car conceived and developed by Bertone. Based on the Z8, it shares the 4.9 L V8 engine from the donor car generating 400 PS (294 kW; 395 hp) mated to a 6-speed manual transmission and has carbon fibre gull-wing doors.[13] It also has a variety of innovative technological features including a sunroof that filters UV light, multilingual voice control and a night vision system.[14]
Production
[edit]The Z8's spaceframe was produced in the Dingolfing Plant[15] and the car was hand-finished in Munich.[16] A total of 5,703 Z8s were built: 3,160 for the world market and 2,543 for the North American market.[17]
In popular culture
[edit]The Z8 was showcased as James Bond's car in the film The World Is Not Enough released in November 1999, from scenes shot in early April 1999. In the film, it is driven by Bond for his mission in Azerbaijan until it is sliced in half by a helicopter equipped with cutting saws.[18][19] The vehicle is equipped with surface to air missiles that is mostly activated through the car's steering wheel used as a targeting display, and can also be remote controlled through the use of the vehicle's keychain. This was the final BMW car to appear in the James Bond franchise as its 3-year film deal with BMW expired. It later reappeared in the James Bond video games 007 Racing and Agent Under Fire, the latter of which featured the car on the cover.
U.S. sales
[edit]Calendar year | U.S. sales |
---|---|
2000[20] | 317 |
2001[21] | 970 |
2002 | 524 |
2003[22] | 439 |
2004[22] | 110 |
2005 | 17 |
2006 | 5 |
References
[edit]- ^ "Aston Martin DB7 vs. BMW Z8, Ferrari 360 Spider Comparison Test" (PDF). Car and Driver.
- ^ "Z8 History". Bmwz8.us. Archived from the original on 6 February 2023. Retrieved 25 August 2018.
- ^ The BMW Z8 birth book/coffee table book which was issued to every BMW Z8 owner
- ^ Holloway, Hilton, ed. (June 1996). "Z3's big brother breaks cover" (PDF). Car. p. 15. Archived from the original (PDF) on 23 December 2017 – via BMW Z8 US.
- ^ "BMW Z07 Concept". BMW BLOG. 20 May 2015. Retrieved 13 August 2018.
- ^ "BMW's Z8: Structurally Shaky?". Bloomberg. 19 January 2006. Retrieved 9 November 2019.
- ^ "Z8 History". bmwz8.us. Retrieved 31 August 2017.
- ^ "BMW M MotoGP". bmw-m.com. Retrieved 31 August 2017.
- ^ a b Hutton, Ray (February 2003). "BMW Alpina Roadster V-8". Car and Driver. Retrieved 16 March 2012.
- ^ "Let's all stare at this gorgeous Z8 Alpina Roadster". Top Gear. 23 May 2018. Retrieved 13 August 2018.
- ^ "Alpina Z8 Roadster Is Asking for $244,900 to Come Home with You". BMW BLOG. 28 August 2017. Retrieved 13 August 2018.[permanent dead link ]
- ^ Buckley, Martin (January 2003). "BMW Aplina Roadster V8". Evo. Archived from the original on 5 August 2012.
- ^ "Concept Cars: Bertone Birusa". Diseno-Art. Archived from the original on 31 December 2019.
- ^ "2003 Bertone Birusa: Concept We Forgot". Motor1.com. Retrieved 1 November 2018.
- ^ "Produktion Z8". BMW. Archived from the original on 8 July 2003. Retrieved 29 December 2017.
- ^ "BMW Group Plant Munich History". www.bmwgroup-plants.com. Retrieved 29 December 2017.
- ^ BMW Z8 Club e.V.
- ^ "Annual Report 2000" (PDF). BMW. Archived from the original (PDF) on 20 June 2013. Retrieved 16 March 2012.
- ^ "7.3 007-The World Is Not Enough". Azer.com. 25 September 1942. Retrieved 25 August 2018.
- ^ "2001 BMW Z8 Reviews by Cars.com Experts and Consumers". Cars.com. Retrieved 25 July 2009.
- ^ "2002 BMW Z8 Summary". Cars.com. Retrieved 25 July 2009.
- ^ a b "BMW Group Shatters All Past Annual Sales Records in 2004". Theautochannel.com. 17 November 2004. Retrieved 25 July 2009.
External links
[edit]- Media related to BMW Z8 (E52) at Wikimedia Commons