BMW Z8 (1999-03)
Overview: The **BMW Z8** (1999–2003) was a bold statement from BMW, blending retro aesthetics with cutting-edge engineering. It was designed as a modern homage to the **BMW 507**, a classic roadster from the 1950s. The Z8 was significant for several reasons:
- **Design & Heritage**: Styled by **Henrik Fisker**, the Z8 was a throwback to BMW’s golden era of roadsters, reinforcing the brand’s legacy in high-performance luxury cars.
- **Engineering Excellence**: It featured an **aluminum space frame**, ensuring lightweight agility and a perfect **50/50 weight distribution**, enhancing handling.
- **Performance**: Powered by a **4.9L V8 engine** from the **E39 M5**, the Z8 delivered **400 horsepower**, making it a serious contender in the sports car segment.
- **Limited Production & Exclusivity**: Only **5,703 units** were produced, making it a rare collector’s item.
- **Pop Culture & Prestige**: The Z8 gained fame as **James Bond’s car** in *The World Is Not Enough*, further cementing its status as an iconic BMW.
Despite its high price and niche appeal, the Z8 showcased BMW’s ability to blend heritage with innovation, influencing future designs and reinforcing its reputation for crafting timeless automobiles.
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Production Total: The **BMW Z8** had a total production run of **5,703 units** between **1998 and 2003**. This includes both the standard Z8 and the **Alpina Roadster V8**, which was a more refined grand tourer variant. The Z8 was designed to evoke the spirit of the **classic BMW 507**, blending retro styling with modern performance. It remains a highly collectible car today, with values continuing to rise.
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Price New: The **BMW Z8** was launched in **1999** with a price of approximately **£80,000** in the UK. This positioned it as a high-end luxury sports car, competing with models like the **Mercedes-Benz SL600** and **Porsche 911 Turbo** at the time. Today, the Z8 has become a highly sought-after collector’s car, with values often exceeding **£200,000** depending on condition and mileage.
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Rivals: In **1999**, the **BMW Z8** had several high-performance rivals, each with distinct pricing in the UK. Here’s a comparison of their new prices at the time:
**BMW Z8 (1999–2003)** - **Price:** **£80,000**
**Main Rivals & Their Prices in 1999**
- **Mercedes-Benz SL600 (R129)** – **£85,000–£90,000**
- **Porsche 911 Turbo (996)** – **£91,000–£95,000**
- **Aston Martin DB7 Vantage** – **£104,000**
- **Ferrari 360 Modena** – **£106,000–£110,000**
The **BMW Z8** was competitively priced, sitting below the **Ferrari 360 Modena** and **Aston Martin DB7 Vantage**, but slightly above the **Mercedes-Benz SL600**. It was positioned as a **luxury grand tourer with supercar performance**, making it a unique offering in the market.
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Sales: The **BMW Z8** was not a massive sales success in the traditional sense, but it has become a highly sought-after collector’s item over time. Initially, the Z8 received mixed reactions, and it took a while for enthusiasts to fully appreciate its design and performance. BMW produced **only 5,703 units**, making it a rare and exclusive model.
While it wasn’t a high-volume seller, the Z8’s value has **soared in the collector’s market**, with prices now significantly higher than its original showroom price. Its **retro-modern styling, powerful V8 engine, and James Bond association** have contributed to its lasting appeal.
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Recorded in UK 2025
As of 2025, there are approximately 56 BMW Z8 models currently licensed in the UK, with an additional **50 registered as SORN (Statutory Off Road Notification)** - How Many Left?](https://www.howmanyleft.co.uk/family/bmw_bmw_z8?make=bmw). These numbers fluctuate as vehicles are bought, sold, and restored. If you're looking for a specific breakdown, checking the **DVLA database** or **How Many Left** website might provide more precise figures.
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COMMON FAULTS
Please Note: Common Faults in Regularly Used Vehicles vs. Low-Mileage Stored Vehicles that have been used consistently over many years, accumulating approximately 10,000–12,000 miles annually, are more prone to common faults due to regular wear and tear. These issues typically arise from the natural aging of components subjected to frequent use, such as engine parts, suspension systems, brakes, and tires. In contrast, vehicles with low mileage that have been stored or preserved are likely to experience different types of issues. These vehicles are often better maintained to ensure their longevity and may avoid some of the typical wear-and-tear problems seen in regularly driven cars. However, they can still face unique challenges such as degradation of rubber seals, corrosion from prolonged inactivity, or fuel system issues caused by old or stagnant fuel.
The **BMW Z8** is a stunning and collectible roadster, but like any classic car, it has some common issues that owners should be aware of. Here are a few frequently reported faults:
**Structural & Body Issues**
- **Aluminum Chassis Weakness** – The Z8’s aluminum frame can develop **stress fractures**, particularly around the front suspension mounting points.
- **Soft-Top Wear** – The convertible roof can suffer from **fabric deterioration** and **seal leaks** over time.
**Electrical Problems**
- **Instrument Cluster Failures** – Some owners report **pixelation issues** or **gauge malfunctions** in the dashboard display.
- **Headlight & Taillight Problems** – The **exterior lighting system** can develop faults, leading to **intermittent failures**.
**Engine & Cooling System**
- **S62 Engine Issues** – The **4.9L V8** is generally reliable but can suffer from **VANOS system failures**, leading to **rough idling and power loss**.
- **Cooling System Weaknesses** – **Radiator leaks** and **water pump failures** are common, requiring periodic checks.
**Fuel & Propulsion System**
- **Fuel Pump Failures** – Some Z8s experience **fuel delivery issues**, causing **starting problems or hesitation**.
Despite these faults, the **BMW Z8 remains a highly desirable collector’s car**, and many of these issues can be managed with proper maintenance.
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Generations/Trim Levels
The **BMW Z8** was a **single-generation** model, produced between **1999 and 2003**, with only one major variant—the **Alpina Roadster V8**.
### **Generations & Variants**
- **BMW Z8 (1999–2003)** – The standard Z8, featuring a **4.9L S62 V8** from the **E39 M5**, paired with a **6-speed manual transmission**.
- **Alpina Roadster V8 (2003)** – A grand touring-focused version with a **4.8L M62 V8**, producing **375 bhp**, and a **5-speed automatic transmission** for a smoother ride.
The **Z8 was designed as a tribute to the classic BMW 507**, blending retro styling with modern performance. It remains one of BMW’s most collectible models today - autoevolution](https://www.autoevolution.com/bmw/z8/).
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Engine/s
The **BMW Z8** was equipped with two different engines during its production run:
**Standard BMW Z8 (1999–2003)**
- **Engine:** **4.9L S62 V8** (from the E39 M5)
- **Power:** **400 bhp (294 kW) @ 6600 rpm**
- **Torque:** **500 Nm (369 lb-ft) @ 3800 rpm**
- **Aspiration:** **Naturally aspirated**
- **Transmission:** **6-speed manual**
**Alpina Roadster V8 (2003)**
- **Engine:** **4.8L M62 V8**
- **Power:** **375 bhp (280 kW) @ 5800 rpm**
- **Torque:** **520 Nm (384 lb-ft) @ 3800 rpm**
- **Aspiration:** **Naturally aspirated**
- **Transmission:** **5-speed automatic**
The **S62 V8** in the standard Z8 was a high-revving, performance-focused engine, while the **M62 V8** in the Alpina Roadster was tuned for a smoother, grand touring experience.
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Performance
The **BMW Z8** was a high-performance roadster, blending retro styling with modern engineering. Here are its key performance figures:
**BMW Z8 (1999–2003)**
- **Engine:** 4.9L S62 V8 (from the E39 M5)
- **Power:** **400 bhp (294 kW) @ 6600 rpm**
- **Torque:** **500 Nm (369 lb-ft) @ 3800 rpm**
- **0–60 mph:** **4.5 seconds**
- **Quarter Mile:** **12.8 seconds @ 111.6 mph**
- **Top Speed:** **155 mph (250 km/h)**
The **Z8** was praised for its **balanced handling, precise steering, and strong acceleration**, making it a true driver’s car. It remains one of BMW’s most iconic models.
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Rivals
The **BMW Z8** had several high-performance rivals in the early 2000s, each offering distinct driving characteristics. Here’s how they compared:
**BMW Z8 (1999–2003)**
- **Engine:** 4.9L S62 V8
- **Power:** **400 bhp**
- **Torque:** **500 Nm (369 lb-ft)**
- **0–60 mph:** **4.5 seconds**
- **Quarter Mile:** **12.8 seconds @ 111.6 mph**
- **Top Speed:** **155 mph (250 km/h)**
**Main Rivals & Their Performance**
**Mercedes-Benz SL55 AMG (2002–2008)**
- **Engine:** 5.4L supercharged V8
- **Power:** **493 bhp**
- **Torque:** **700 Nm (516 lb-ft)**
- **0–60 mph:** **4.5 seconds**
- **Top Speed:** **155 mph (250 km/h)**
**Porsche 911 Turbo (996) (2000–2005)**
- **Engine:** 3.6L twin-turbo flat-six
- **Power:** **414 bhp**
- **Torque:** **563 Nm (416 lb-ft)**
- **0–60 mph:** **4.2 seconds**
- **Top Speed:** **189 mph (304 km/h)**
**Aston Martin DB7 Vantage (1999–2003)**
- **Engine:** 5.9L V12
- **Power:** **420 bhp**
- **Torque:** **540 Nm (398 lb-ft)**
- **0–60 mph:** **5.0 seconds**
- **Top Speed:** **186 mph (299 km/h)**
The **BMW Z8** was a strong competitor, offering **sharp handling, a high-revving V8, and retro styling**, but rivals like the **Porsche 911 Turbo** and **Aston Martin DB7 Vantage** had higher top speeds.
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Designer/Dimensions
The **BMW Z8** was designed by **Henrik Fisker**, with its interior crafted by **Scott Lempert**. It was developed under the leadership of **Chris Bangle** between **1993 and 1995**, with the goal of evoking the spirit of the classic **BMW 507**.
**Dimensions**
- **Wheelbase:** **2,504 mm (98.6 in)**
- **Length:** **4,399 mm (173.2 in)**
- **Width:** **1,829 mm (72 in)**
- **Height:** **1,318 mm (51.9 in)**
- **Curb Weight:** **1,585 kg (3,494 lb)**
The **Z8** was built with an **aluminum space frame**, ensuring a lightweight yet rigid structure for **optimal handling and performance**.
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Spares/Specialists NI
If you're looking for **BMW Z8 spares** in the **UK and Ireland**, here are a few places to check out:
**Online Retailers**
- [EU Spares](https://www.euspares.co.uk/original-parts/bmw/z8) – Offers **OE original parts** for the BMW Z8, including **filters, brakes, suspension, and electrics**.
- [AutoPartsPro](https://www.autopartspro.co.uk/bmw-z8-carparts) – Specializes in **original BMW Z8 spares**, covering **engine components, bodywork, and electrical parts**.
**Specialist Dealers & Forums**
- **BMW Enthusiast Clubs** – Many **BMW owners’ clubs** have dedicated forums where members buy, sell, and trade parts.
- **Classic Car Specialists** – Some **independent BMW specialists** stock rare Z8 components.
**Local Scrap Yards & Breakers**
- **BMW-Specific Breakers** – Some **BMW dismantlers** may have Z8 parts available.
- **General Classic Car Breakers** – Occasionally, Z8 parts turn up in **high-end vehicle salvage yards**.
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Specialists NI
There are several **specialist BMW garage services** available in **Northern Ireland**. Here are a few options:
**Independent BMW Specialists**
- **[Car Clinique](https://carcliniquebmwspecialist.co.uk/contact-us/)** – Located in **Hillsborough**, County Down, offering **BMW and Mini servicing**.
- **[Railway Auto Spares](https://www.railwayautospares.com/)** – Based in **Ballynahinch**, specializing in **BMW servicing, repairs, diagnostics, and MOT prep**.
- **[McEvoy Motors](https://www.mcevoymotors.com/index.php/31/)** – Located in **Carryduff**, near Belfast, offering **BMW servicing, diagnostics, and repairs**.
**BMW-Approved Dealerships**
- **[The Country Garage](https://www.countrygaragebmw.co.uk/)** – An **authorized BMW & MINI dealer** in **Ballymena**, offering **new and used BMWs, servicing, and maintenance**.
- **[Bavarian BMW](https://www.agnewcars.com/bmw/servicing-maintenance/)** – A **BMW-approved service center** in **Belfast**, providing **official BMW servicing and maintenance**.
**German Car Specialists**
- **[German Motorworks](https://germanmotorworks.co.uk/ecu-tuning-remapping-northern-ireland)** – Located in **Banbridge**, specializing in **BMW, Mercedes, Audi, and Volkswagen repairs**.
- **[PJS Auto Engineering](http://www.pjsautoengineering.co.uk/bmw-specialist-northern-ireland.html)** – Based in **Bellaghy**, offering **BMW diagnostics, servicing, and repairs**.
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Racing
The **BMW Z8** was not officially developed for racing, but it did have some motorsport connections. While it was primarily designed as a **luxury roadster**, its **4.9L S62 V8 engine**—borrowed from the **E39 M5**—gave it serious performance potential.
However, BMW never entered the Z8 into **factory-backed racing series**, and it was not homologated for competition. That said, some **private owners and enthusiasts** have modified Z8s for track use, and a few have appeared in **club racing events**.
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Valuation
In **2025**, the value of a **BMW Z8** in the UK varies depending on **condition, mileage, and rarity**. Here’s a general price range based on recent market data:
Lowest recorded sale:** Around **£68,726** for models in fair condition.
Average market value:** Approximately **£157,743** for well-maintained examples.
Highest recorded sale:** Up to **£396,737** for rare or pristine-condition models.
If you're looking to buy or sell one, checking **AutoTrader UK** or **Hagerty UK** might provide more precise valuations.
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Clubs NI
There are **BMW owners' clubs** in **Northern Ireland**, offering events, meet-ups, and support for BMW enthusiasts. Here are a few options:
**BMW Clubs in Northern Ireland**
- **[BMW Club Ulster Section](https://www.bmwclubulstersection.com/)** – A dedicated BMW motorcycle club that organizes **ride-outs, social events, and tours** across Northern Ireland.
- **[BMW Car Club GB – Ireland Region](https://bmwcarclubgb.uk/regions/ireland/)** – Covers both **Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland**, hosting **track days, car shows, and BMW-related events**.
- **[The BMW Club Northern Section](https://sites.google.com/site/bmwclubnorthernsection/)** – A club focused on **BMW motorcycles**, offering **regular meetings, ride-outs, and social gatherings**.
These clubs provide a great way to **connect with fellow BMW enthusiasts**, whether you're into **motorcycles or cars**.
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