Vehicle Description
Chassis No. WBAEJ13412AH61818
Unveiled as the Z07 concept at the 1997 Tokyo Motor Show, the BMW
Z8 emerged in an era when "retro-futurism" aesthetics had
captivated the automotive design industry. Where other nostalgic
designs of the late 1990s and early 2000s often bordered on kitsch,
chief designer Henrik Fisker managed to pay homage to BMW's classic
507 while keeping the Z8 thoroughly clean and modern. Its long hood
and short deck proportions echoed the sensual 507, while it's
low-slung, muscular stance created a profile that was at once
timeless and decidedly sporty. Fisker's vision extended seamlessly
into the Z8's cockpit, with a banjo-style steering wheel comprised
of steel spokes, a central instrument pod, brushed aluminum
switchgear, and a body-color panel running the full width of the
dashboard.
Beneath its sculpted aluminum bodywork rested the beating heart of
BMW's M division: the S62 4.9-liter V8 engine shared with the
contemporary E39 M5. Producing 394 horsepower and paired with a
precise six-speed manual transmission, this powertrain catapulted
the roadster from zero-to-60 mph in a just 4.5 seconds. The
engine's placement behind the centerline of the front wheels,
combined with the car's aluminum monocoque chassis and perfect
50:50 weight distribution, enabled the Z8 to deliver exceptional
sports car performance while still excelling as a capable grand
tourer.
The Z8 presented here, produced on 21 May 2002, is one of just 331
examples finished in the sophisticated combination of Black
exterior paint over a Crema and Black Nappa leather interior. Its
already compelling specification is complemented by a matching
black soft top, factory body-color removable hardtop, and 18-inch
split-spoke alloy wheels.
Originally delivered through Long Beach BMW, this Z8 has been
meticulously maintained throughout its life. The first owner
covered just over 1,100 miles in approximately three years before
the car passed to its second California-based owner in February
2005. Over the next 18 years, this caretaker ensured the Z8
received consistent attention from BMW of Sherman Oaks, with
accompanying service records on file. In January 2021, at 8,806
miles, the car benefited from over $6,300 in mechanical attention
at Rusnak BMW. This work included a new passenger-side window
regulator, front strut brace replacement, and the fitment of four
new Bridgestone Potenza tires.
Now showing just 9,389 miles, this low-mileage BMW Z8 presents an
exceptional opportunity to acquire a modern classic in immaculately
well-preserved condition. The original black paint remains in
spectacular condition, and the Crema leather interior has been
equally well maintained. It's evident that the previous owners have
been very gentle with the car, making it hard to find evidence of
it being over 20 years old. Factory VIN decals are in place on all
panels, along with other factory labels, decals, and finishes,
further attesting to its superb preservation.
This Z8 comes complete with an impressive array of factory
accessories, including the window sticker, original tool roll,
owner's manuals, first aid kit, battery tender, hardtop cover,
hardtop stand, and exterior car cover. Additionally, it is
accompanied by its factory Z8 fitted car cover, fender apron, wind
deflector, color-coded convertible top cover, factory color-coded
hard top in spectacular condition, original pouch for manuals
(including BMW Audiophile demonstration CD, owner's manual, service
contact manual, service and warranty manual, and GPS manual),
factory battery charger in pouch, factory accessory cup holder, two
keys with leather key cover, unused factory front license plate
bracket, and the factory BMW-labelled Motorola mobile phone that
connects in the center console.
The history file contains service invoices and maintenance receipts
dating back to the early 2000s, further documenting the mileage and
impeccably preserved condition of the car. Ready to deliver an
exhilarating open-top driving experience, this Z8 offers the
perfect blend of vintage-inspired design and world-class
performance from BMW's M division.
