I've had a Z8. BMW asked me if they could loan my car for the unveiling of the new Z4. They had a line up in the showroom of a Z3, Z4, the new Z4 and the Z8. It was a plan that back fired massively. People came in, saw the Z8 and made a beeline for it, ignoring the new Z4 totally!😄 Beautiful car, like no other BMW. The interior was 99% unique, with only the heated seat buttons coming from the 7 series.
@@DaleSteel It was probably the best investment I could've made. However, it coincided with splitting up with my ex, and the sale of it cleared all our debts and helped us move on. I still regret it deeply!
@@graemejohnson9025 I love when people say typical unreliable crap, the n55 is renowned for being reliable and the b58 is heading that way too doubt Toyota would use it if it was crap 🤦♂️
I was living in Munich in the 1990s, driving a TVR Griffith. I met a man who was working in the BMW design area and he told me that some of them had seen my car parked there and they were admiring some aspects of its shape. He said there was a new car under develoment that was influenced by mine! I suspect that the very rounded back end of the Z8 may be one of the influences from the Griffith.
Jonny Smith you nailed it, great opening sequence and perfect video for BMW fans. You have made me want to look at affordable BMW convertibles again. Thanks for your time and effort putting this video together.
I can't honestly say I'm won over by the interior but that body is something very special, particularly the rear with those curves and pin stripe lights 😗👌
Tony is bang on about the Z8. I am generally not a BMW fan (with a few exceptions) but i have loved the Z8 ever since I saw and heard one in BMW's Munich development workshop. I always thought the bones of this car could have made a brilliant Austin Healey, MG or Triumph sports car/GT. Awesome.
I have always loved the Z8, but it seems to have been forgotten by the majority of the world, spoken in hushed tones by those in the know! I saw one in the metal for the first time last year at Listers BMW in Lincoln where it was on display along with an Isetta. I’ve wanted one since I saw it on the big screen and I wanted one even more after I stood next to it… maybe one day. Thanks for another great video Jonny.
Just wonderfull car. The prices are on the up and unfortunately became unacessable to a lot of people. It is great how they haven't changed the design from the design to manufactured car. Johnny can you please do a video on some of the iconic Saab cars?
I remember when my parents picked up their Z3 around the same time the Z8 was released. Saw a few in showrooms and thought they looked amazing. You’re totally right that they started the retro design push. Still looks amazing now. I’d wouldn’t mind seeing more of that Samuri Z 👍🏼
I was living in Oxford, the BMW dealership there was on a main road and it had a Z8 sitting in the window for a quite a while. Every time I went past it I started daydreaming 😍
It’s a piece of art. Excellent video and insight into a very exclusive car! I’ve never owned a convertible but I appreciated the comment about the windows, soft tops just look wrong driving around with the windows up. Same with frameless doors like in the Impreza, open the windows before you open the door for the full effect!
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It is one of the coolest roadsters, for me it was love at first sight when I have seen it in a magazine. I have seen it as the first and last real one in Dubai in 2012. I made photos with it there, and people were staring at me, what is so big deal about it... Thank you for the great video! (again)
Johnny, I could feel every word you expressed about this amazing car. You have a wonderful way with words and the way you bring to life a car's character. This is why I love what you do. Love the channel. Thank you so much for the joy you bring us as we live vicariously through you. Cheers mate. 👍
Such a joy to see Jonny living cars. His explanation regarding "an attractive car" is very precise. Me as an engineer is looking on vehicles or even further on machines in the same way. Maybe Jonny has this view because he as engineer blood in his veins. Beauty has many ways to interpret.
What a great watch! I had a friend who owned one here in New Zealand in 2001. He always says he should never have sold it! I drove it twice. Loved it! Z8 does have front fog lights. You had them on whilst driving. Inboard of the four headlights in front body. Main low beams are outboard with, as you mentioned, the high beams in the grille. Always enjoy your 23:49 vids sir!
Thanks for the trip down memory lane Jonny. I was on the press launch of the Z8 in Pasadena, and was really happy to be in the last group as it had rained every day up until then. So much for "It never rains in Southern California!" The LHD-only Z8 was designed by BMW in Munich and their Los Angeles-based DesignWorks subsidiary, with the US the primary market for this car. In all 5,703 cars were built between 1998 and 2003. Production of the Alpina Roadster V8 version began in early 2003 soon after the standard Z8 was discontinued. Just 555 were built, with 450 destined for the US market and just eight for the UK. I drove the car on behalf of a coiple of US publications at a small event in Buchloe in 2003. This was the time when BMW was helping Alpina to enter the US market officially through the official BMW dealer network. As US consumer law mandated that any product offered by a manufacturer must be offered to every official dealer, this created a problem for Alpina whose total production capability at the time was under 800 cars a year. It eventually led to a revision of the manufacturing system with Alpina models produced on the BMW production lines, and the interiors and engines fitted to the cars at Buchloe. Back then US customers for high-end roadsters overwhelmingly preferred automatic transmissions, and BMW had received many requests for an automatic Z8. However, the high-revving 4.9 litre S62 V8 shared with the M5 was not compatible with any automatic gearbox in BMW's line-up so it was decided that the limited edition Roadster V8 would use the Alpina-tuned 4.8 litre M62 V8 from the Alpina E39 B10 V8 S, coupled to the Alpina-modified five-speed Steptronic auto. Ironically, within a year the SMG-only V10-powered E60 M5 hit the market and US customers complained there was no manual! Since then we have seen more and more demand for manual cars amongst enthusiasts all over the world, with Porsche in particular catering to that request with their manual option Carrera, GT4 and GT3 models. While the Alpina Roadster V8 had only 381hp at 5,800rpm compared to the 400hp at 6,600rpm of the Z8, it compensated by having 519Nm torque compared to 500Nm for the Z8 at the same 3,800rpm. The V8 Roadster’s electronic gearbox programming is unique in that it blips the throttle very slightly to bring engine revs up to match the incoming lower gear and smoothen the downshift for you. This is normal on clutchless manual systems, but it was the first time we encountered this on an automatic gearbox. While today's automatics do this, bear in mind that this feature did not exist on any other luxury or sports car back in 2003. Having just five forward ratios in the automatic versus six in the manual Z8, the Alpina took 5.2 sec to reach 60mph versus 4.6 sec for the Z8. This was the first time in history that an Alpina car was slower than the BMW it was based on. While the Z8 is electronically limited to 155mph according to the German OE manufacturer's 'gentleman's agreement', as an independent manufacturer, Alpina has no top speed restriction. The Roadster V8 is still electronically limited to 161mph, but for aerodynamic stability reasons as Alpina did not want to add spoilers that would ruin the cars pure shape. The 20-inch multi-spoke Alpina alloys complement the cars looks nicely. Alpina only uses Michelin tyres, and while the Pilot Sport 255/35ZR20 front tyres are off-the-shelf, the 285/30ZR20 rears are unique to this car. The carefully calibrated springs and dampers are softer in bounce than the Z8 ones and lower ride height by 15mm. The US version uses stock Z8 front springs to comply with headlamp height rules. Despite the uprated suspension and the huge rubber footprints, even at low speeds around town, the suspension tuning achieves a near perfect balance between ride and handling. The Z8 was a very under-rated car two decades ago, and the slowly rising prices today are an indication that the excellence of its design and construction materials and techniques are finally being recognised.
Terrific installment, thank you. One of the most outstanding elements of the Z8 was the build quality. At the time, BMW's new Rolls Royce Phantom VII shared aluminum hydroforming and construction techniques the Z8 had already employed. No other BMW at that time - or ever since - has ever been built in this manner. Another mark of genius from BMW was to hide any sort of nascent electronics technologies. The interior controls were solid chunks of aluminum - which brought a sense of elegant timelessness. Because of this, the build quality and of course one of the greatest V8 engines BMW has ever produced, the Z8 will continue to rise in appreciable value.
Class, Elegance and Beauty..... Combined with BMW Engineering and you have everything you need in a Sports Car.... I have always loved this Car....And would be my choice from Tony`s collection..... Great video Jonny.... :-))
Apart from the E39 "M" Touring, I'd say this was my favourite BMW, ... EVER! Certainly, if my garage was needing 2 BMW's, then these would be the main contenders! They would cover my EVERY NEED!
Was so excited for the video but thought to myself early on "Those things have to be worth a fair amount... bet Tony lives somewhere pretty fancy". Cut to the 6:00 mark and I recognised Alderly Edge straight away, long before Jonny mentioned it... that tracks. Grew up not far from here and still travel back now and again as it's not far from where my parents retired to. After seeing that, I couldn't make my mind up on what to focus on... the beautiful car, or the roads I know well enough to be able to piece together the difference between the order in which the drive was recorded vs the order it had been edited into 😂 Fell in love with this car as a young lad - engine from my then dream car put into a retro-inspired sports coupe that James Bond drove... how could you not?! Only a few years later, I learnt to drive on the roads Jonny is taking it. Beautiful!
Made my day this as ever - quality video, great chats with the owner and what a car....I had one as my screensaver and deleted it only recently....still have aspirations of ownership, natch. Cheers Jonny
Thank you for featuring this Z8 and to Tony for making it possible. I love every aspect of the Z8 from every angle. Even the interior is special. 20 years on, I think it's one of BMW's finest cars that will continue to look special 20 years from now. Great video!
Thank you Jonny, you've just confirmed exactly what I thought, it is a wholly wonderful car, subtle and discreet rather than a shouty monster 😀😀. As for another car I think the Ginetta as an equally unusual beast
What a magnificent car - the perfect sunday cruiser. Looks amazing, especially with the wheels. Fitting the supple Alpina suspension is good choice, and the manual gearbox is the cherry on top.
Soo...you're saying that this car is 'better' than a completely different size, shape, type, and design function vehicle then....!? Presumably, then, you'd be happy to take this car to the DIY store and throw a load of building materials, compost, plants, construction timber etc in the back....or take three kids on holiday with camping gear, bicycles, luggage, dog...??! I know it's 'fashionable' to hate SUVs in their various forms, but, y'know.....'horses for courses'!
The navigation head unit looks to be an early Bosch unit - I had the same same exact system as a factory option in a 2.6l V6 Ford Mondeo Ghia (German spec car) from 1998. I remember the monochrome display with the arrows and the voice directions very well. The actual maps were on CD-ROM at the time (separate drive unit in the boot) and you needed a separate one for each country in Europe if you wanted full road detail. Some areas (like Northern Ireland) were not even mapped at all at that time!
@@davidB997 Strange that, I had an Audi A6 Avant in 06, which had all of Europe - including Ireland - on it no problem. How am I sure of that? I live in Ireland? 😉 (I thought all the German marques used the same Navteq maps back then anyway?)
This was the very first sportscar in the World with a build-in navigation... So yes, a tad archaic. Let's not forget the car was presented at the end of 1998! Navigation systems were very uncommon. Look at the navigation of the Ferrari 360 Modena of 2 years later: same story.
As soon as I heard it had a 5.0 V8 I was like yes please. A few years ago Doug DeMuro reviewed one and again yes please, very classy car. Great episode Jonny
That was cool. When the z8 was released the local dealer got one in the showroom. The first time I saw the car I was just stunned by the beauty of it. It really is a piece of art. I still feel that way. My friend worked there at the time, so I was allowed to actually sit in it... and make v8 noises 👀 Sadly never drove or even had a ride in one and I`m pretty sure I`ll never own one, but that`s ok. It will remain extra special that way. If there is somebody out there who is willing to donate one, I will accept though... 👍
I’m Scottish and have driven a lot of the roads for pleasure but also one of my favourite roads is Thirsk to Scarborough through Pickering , Thornton le Dale etc I drive because of family memories on holiday. This would be perfect for that road on a summers day just enjoying the road in no rush to visit the seaside 😁👍 Beautiful Car especially in Silver.
I've just seen one z8 in real life and it always make my head play Bond Theme and always make me drive a bit faster after i've seen it.. they are stunning and so raw.!! Awsome video👊
Gorgeous car. I'm not generally a fan of BMWs but I've always loved these. So much so that I have several diecast models of it! I've seen one in person once when I was on holiday in Germany - it's certainly a rare beast. I do wonder if Fisker - assuming he did the interior as well as the exterior - took some inspiration from 1990s Fiat group cars. The dashboard shares cues with the coupé Fiat (body colour panel and push button starter) which of course Bangle did the exterior of, and the Lancia Y (central instrument pod). Regardless, I agree that as a whole the Z8 has aged well. It could star in a new Bond film tomorrow and the man on the street would still think it some new offering from Munich (modest kidney grills aside!). I also think this car must have served as inspiration for the Weismann Roadster. Excellent film Jonny. And thanks again to Tony for facilitating it.
Still love this car a lot in 2023 since it's still basically a two-seater E39 M5, and I love the E39 M5 a lot. The closest modern BMW we can get with such a formula today is the F91 M8 Cabriolet.
Love to see Jonny driving near Jodrell Bank, some of my favourite roads near my home. And glad to know there's a Z8 living not far from me. One day I might cross it on the road.
I had one in triple black (black exterior, interior dash and seats - no pale colour inserts). I absolutely loved it. I bought it from a pawn broker just outside Atlanta for $78K. It had 10K miles on it. Sold it three/four years later for the same amount with 20K miles on it thinking I was a shrewd negotiator. Miss it to this day. I had problems with a VANOS failure and also, water ingress due to a blocked drain tube. The water backed up in to space behind the passenger seat, which is where quite a bit of electrical stuff was located, perhaps even a fuse box, but my memory is hazy on that. I've been fortunate enough to own some nice cars over the years but nothing comes close to the Z8 for me. It was a good time in my life and the car was a perfect companion for those hedonistic days.
I know, for BMW it was like a modernised version of their 1955-1960 '507' & '503' models. But looks wise, it also gives off a little Jaguar 'E-Type' vibe... I love these cars!! Well, I love any sleek, 2 door coupe/cabriolets. right from the Triumph Spitfire & Stag, Sunbeam Alpine, E-Type, MG B, Midget etc and many more.. 👍 😎🇬🇧
I've always thought the Z8 was a lovely looking car, and no, it hasn't aged in my opinion, way way better than anything that BMW have to offer today on looks.
Always thought it was a special looking car especially as it has the overall look of the 507 and as you said, really one of the first retro/tribute designs and with a lottery win, one of only 3 or 4 BMW's I'd ever consider owning I think. I thought the same as you... I'd maybe never get to drive one, and if I did what would it be like and would it be disappointing? Once again with another of your single car reviews Jonny, you had it all covered and answered all of my questions...and many more. As you asked about which of Tony's cars I'd like to drive/own/use for the weekend...1. 240z Samuri 2. 3.0 CSL 3. RS2000 4. Z8. Thanks again to you and TLBS team and of course thanks to Tony for sharing his collection with all of us, probably my favourite car cave.
Hi Jonny. I left a like and meant to comment a few days ago... Anyway, after I listened to the latest Smith N Sniff podcast and the mention of your test drive of the Z8, I correct myself. I love the Z8's styling, especially the front. More than all of that, it's such a subtle car: the gruffly (E39) V8 is all there, but it doesn't shout because (unlike modern BMWs) it doesn't need to. It's a pity BMW only sold it in LHD cos it would've gone down a treat in Oz, the land of the RHD V8. It is, as you (and Harry M) say, a misunderstood and timeless car.
I remember when the Z8 came out and I fell for it immediately. It was much better looking (and engined) than the Z3. I loved the mix of modern and classic. Incidentally, if it has Alpina wheels, it may also have Alpina spec’d suspension and from what I’ve read, they’re a dab hand making their cars ride amazingly without losing the handling balance of the donor BMW. Another great video Johnny 👍🏾
@@TheLateBrakeShow not an Alpina fan then….? 😅 I never liked the that style of Alpina wheel, but loved the turbine style they used on the B3 and B5’s in the 90’s.
Very privileged to have worked for BMW AG in Los Angeles in 1997-1999 as a test driver and was allowed to only drive the prototype once at 5am and go out of town so people couldn't see it. Was silver and red like in the video. Also had the E39 M5 prototype at same time which the Z8 is based upon. Fun times
One gotta remember, the M5 V8 is a high revving engine, shame Jonny seems to miss out on the HP’s here. Lovely lovely car!! Rear lights were actually neon, not LED. But it wasn’t the first ’modern’ car with a push button start - that was Fiat Coupe 20VT LE (1998) Another Bangle!
I have always like BMW motorcycles, Siri six, 600, 750 k they are just beautifully finished. I have always worked on my own bikes just because I can’t really afford the prices to work with BMW agent, but when they build a sports car and open top, they really do pull their finger out even with the heart of the 2002 BMW the finish the chrome do everything I’m not a great car lover as I say, but this ticks every box for me. Really enjoy this. Michael
I used to PDI all the new BMWs that came into our dealership. Z8's too. Included a test drive before they were shipped out. They were always bought somewhere else. The Alpina was my favorite because it just felt more of a relaxed cruiser with the standard V8 and automatic (yes I was around 50 at the time). I still have a set of the Alpina wheel covers. The Alpina was delivered with thick plastic covers on the wheels, for protection during shipping, that were secured with tie wraps. Neat little souvenir.
I would love to see you take the 3.0csl out as never got to drive the one I painted. I did drive a z8 but only around our yard so not really able to gauge it. I am lucky enough to own an E39 M5 though and that engine is a masterpiece.
Great video Jonny and long over due on a gorgeous BMW easily my favourite. I was lucky enough to sell a few used examples of these in the early 2000’s whilst working at a BMW centre. Always interesting customers. One chap bought a new one as he had been left disappointed by his Porsche Centre. 8 weeks later they managed to magically find a 911 Turbo allocation and the Z8 had to go. The BMW network didn’t understand them then and his £86000 turned into £60000 having covered a few hundred miles. He is probably still a Porsche man after that. Another day I was despatched to a famous Bentley showroom in London to meet a chap who was selling his. A great day driving back up North, hood down with a M15 personal number plates on. The looks and positive comments when I pulled up at home were priceless. The nicest looking one was sold to a chap in Belfast. Black with ivory. It was his second, the first went in a divorce as his Mrs knew how much he loved his Z8. Hexagon BMW saw the value in them, once production ended and got a few at handy money, they kept on creeping up in value. The cheapest one I saw was £40k, now look where they are. Hindsight, that rare thing.
Still struggle with the headlights but the rest is gorgeous. The back end particularly just has such a great presence about it. Wrt to which of his cars in his garage. Own the BMW CSL & the Healey for a drive. So much tough competition though. Great episodes.
I had a customer who turned up in a z8 last summer for a bit of paint. My mate really pissed him off by referring to it as a Z3 four times and swearing he'd "seen at least 10 on 'trader for less than three grand" 😮
I remember at the time thinking what’s the point of these , now I absolutely love them .
They look gorgeous and sound incredible.
I've had a Z8. BMW asked me if they could loan my car for the unveiling of the new Z4. They had a line up in the showroom of a Z3, Z4, the new Z4 and the Z8. It was a plan that back fired massively. People came in, saw the Z8 and made a beeline for it, ignoring the new Z4 totally!😄 Beautiful car, like no other BMW. The interior was 99% unique, with only the heated seat buttons coming from the 7 series.
Why did you sell it. Seems like a good investment plan
@@DaleSteel It was probably the best investment I could've made. However, it coincided with splitting up with my ex, and the sale of it cleared all our debts and helped us move on. I still regret it deeply!
The Z8 is the best looking BMW for at least 40 years in my opinion.
Oohhhh what is that smell ? Ahh yes it’s bullshit 😂
@@badgersalesman5595 some people actually do own nice things you might be surprised to know! Not everyone drives shit cars mate.
I love when Jonny reviews older vehicles, and this is my dream car, so I'm pretty much in heaven rn
Thank you for enjoying this one.
Do you know a good mechanic. My mate has a 840, and one of these..
TYPICAL BMW unreliable crap..
@@graemejohnson9025 I love when people say typical unreliable crap, the n55 is renowned for being reliable and the b58 is heading that way too doubt Toyota would use it if it was crap 🤦♂️
@@graemejohnson9025 things need maintenance on cars? Who knew
Easily one of the most beautiful BMWs ever built, but it still won't stop me drooling over that red Mini in the background.
This is best looking BMW, a Bond classic and great video. Kudos to the owner for making this possible!
A beautiful car Johnny. Another excellent video. 👏👏
I was living in Munich in the 1990s, driving a TVR Griffith. I met a man who was working in the BMW design area and he told me that some of them had seen my car parked there and they were admiring some aspects of its shape. He said there was a new car under develoment that was influenced by mine! I suspect that the very rounded back end of the Z8 may be one of the influences from the Griffith.
I went past Tony's house today and I've seen a few of his cars on the road before. Super collection and this car looks a delight to drive.
Jonny Smith you nailed it, great opening sequence and perfect video for BMW fans. You have made me want to look at affordable BMW convertibles again. Thanks for your time and effort putting this video together.
That interior… 🤩
So classy and smooth. I’m in love!
This is why I love watching The Late Brake Show so much!
I can't honestly say I'm won over by the interior but that body is something very special, particularly the rear with those curves and pin stripe lights 😗👌
17:12 I think what he’s trying to say is “There’s no replacement for displacement”
Tony is bang on about the Z8. I am generally not a BMW fan (with a few exceptions) but i have loved the Z8 ever since I saw and heard one in BMW's Munich development workshop. I always thought the bones of this car could have made a brilliant Austin Healey, MG or Triumph sports car/GT. Awesome.
Great video, I remember these being derided at the time and all the hullabaloo about Bond being in a Beemer. Now £200K…..bonkers
More than £200k for lower mileages!
The detail on the front indicator. The shape of the wing. Magnificent. Holy god Ted
Please do a video on the MG Xpower when its running, such a weird and cool car
A few folks have asked that...
I have always loved the Z8, but it seems to have been forgotten by the majority of the world, spoken in hushed tones by those in the know! I saw one in the metal for the first time last year at Listers BMW in Lincoln where it was on display along with an Isetta. I’ve wanted one since I saw it on the big screen and I wanted one even more after I stood next to it… maybe one day. Thanks for another great video Jonny.
Loved the budget Bond intro, and the list of celebrities with their Z8 specification was a really awesome touch. Lots of surprising names 😮
One of my favourite BMWs. E39 running gear in a kinda retro-mid-century body. That dashboard is right out of the 50's/60's and it looks impeccable.
Just wonderfull car. The prices are on the up and unfortunately became unacessable to a lot of people. It is great how they haven't changed the design from the design to manufactured car. Johnny can you please do a video on some of the iconic Saab cars?
I remember when my parents picked up their Z3 around the same time the Z8 was released. Saw a few in showrooms and thought they looked amazing. You’re totally right that they started the retro design push. Still looks amazing now.
I’d wouldn’t mind seeing more of that Samuri Z 👍🏼
I was living in Oxford, the BMW dealership there was on a main road and it had a Z8 sitting in the window for a quite a while. Every time I went past it I started daydreaming 😍
It’s a piece of art. Excellent video and insight into a very exclusive car! I’ve never owned a convertible but I appreciated the comment about the windows, soft tops just look wrong driving around with the windows up. Same with frameless doors like in the Impreza, open the windows before you open the door for the full effect!
It is one of the coolest roadsters, for me it was love at first sight when I have seen it in a magazine. I have seen it as the first and last real one in Dubai in 2012. I made photos with it there, and people were staring at me, what is so big deal about it... Thank you for the great video! (again)
It's always a joy watching your videos Johnny!
Many thanks David
Johnny, I could feel every word you expressed about this amazing car. You have a wonderful way with words and the way you bring to life a car's character.
This is why I love what you do. Love the channel.
Thank you so much for the joy you bring us as we live vicariously through you.
Cheers mate. 👍
Always absolutely loved these! I'd love to see you drive the ginetta if poss Jonny ...
Such a joy to see Jonny living cars. His explanation regarding "an attractive car" is very precise. Me as an engineer is looking on vehicles or even further on machines in the same way. Maybe Jonny has this view because he as engineer blood in his veins. Beauty has many ways to interpret.
What a great watch!
I had a friend who owned one here in New Zealand in 2001.
He always says he should never have sold it!
I drove it twice. Loved it!
Z8 does have front fog lights.
You had them on whilst driving.
Inboard of the four headlights in front body.
Main low beams are outboard with, as you mentioned, the high beams in the grille.
Always enjoy your 23:49 vids sir!
They were a disaster when they came out. Only worth something now because hardly anyone bought one.
Totally agree the Z8 is gorgeous. Twenty years from now this car will still get a envious nod.
8:06 I think the front looks quite gorgeous!
Thanks for the trip down memory lane Jonny.
I was on the press launch of the Z8 in Pasadena, and was really happy to be in the last group as it had rained every day up until then. So much for "It never rains in Southern California!"
The LHD-only Z8 was designed by BMW in Munich and their Los Angeles-based DesignWorks subsidiary, with the US the primary market for this car. In all 5,703 cars were built between 1998 and 2003.
Production of the Alpina Roadster V8 version began in early 2003 soon after the standard Z8 was discontinued. Just 555 were built, with 450 destined for the US market and just eight for the UK. I drove the car on behalf of a coiple of US publications at a small event in Buchloe in 2003.
This was the time when BMW was helping Alpina to enter the US market officially through the official BMW dealer network. As US consumer law mandated that any product offered by a manufacturer must be offered to every official dealer, this created a problem for Alpina whose total production capability at the time was under 800 cars a year. It eventually led to a revision of the manufacturing system with Alpina models produced on the BMW production lines, and the interiors and engines fitted to the cars at Buchloe.
Back then US customers for high-end roadsters overwhelmingly preferred automatic transmissions, and BMW had received many requests for an automatic Z8. However, the high-revving 4.9 litre S62 V8 shared with the M5 was not compatible with any automatic gearbox in BMW's line-up so it was decided that the limited edition Roadster V8 would use the Alpina-tuned 4.8 litre M62 V8 from the Alpina E39 B10 V8 S, coupled to the Alpina-modified five-speed Steptronic auto.
Ironically, within a year the SMG-only V10-powered E60 M5 hit the market and US customers complained there was no manual! Since then we have seen more and more demand for manual cars amongst enthusiasts all over the world, with Porsche in particular catering to that request with their manual option Carrera, GT4 and GT3 models.
While the Alpina Roadster V8 had only 381hp at 5,800rpm compared to the 400hp at 6,600rpm of the Z8, it compensated by having 519Nm torque compared to 500Nm for the Z8 at the same 3,800rpm. The V8 Roadster’s electronic gearbox programming is unique in that it blips the throttle very slightly to bring engine revs up to match the incoming lower gear and smoothen the downshift for you. This is normal on clutchless manual systems, but it was the first time we encountered this on an automatic gearbox. While today's automatics do this, bear in mind that this feature did not exist on any other luxury or sports car back in 2003.
Having just five forward ratios in the automatic versus six in the manual Z8, the Alpina took 5.2 sec to reach 60mph versus 4.6 sec for the Z8. This was the first time in history that an Alpina car was slower than the BMW it was based on. While the Z8 is electronically limited to 155mph according to the German OE manufacturer's 'gentleman's agreement', as an independent manufacturer, Alpina has no top speed restriction. The Roadster V8 is still electronically limited to 161mph, but for aerodynamic stability reasons as Alpina did not want to add spoilers that would ruin the cars pure shape.
The 20-inch multi-spoke Alpina alloys complement the cars looks nicely. Alpina only uses Michelin tyres, and while the Pilot Sport 255/35ZR20 front tyres are off-the-shelf, the 285/30ZR20 rears are unique to this car.
The carefully calibrated springs and dampers are softer in bounce than the Z8 ones and lower ride height by 15mm. The US version uses stock Z8 front springs to comply with headlamp height rules. Despite the uprated suspension and the huge rubber footprints, even at low speeds around town, the suspension tuning achieves a near perfect balance between ride and handling.
The Z8 was a very under-rated car two decades ago, and the slowly rising prices today are an indication that the excellence of its design and construction materials and techniques are finally being recognised.
Terrific installment, thank you. One of the most outstanding elements of the Z8 was the build quality. At the time, BMW's new Rolls Royce Phantom VII shared aluminum hydroforming and construction techniques the Z8 had already employed. No other BMW at that time - or ever since - has ever been built in this manner. Another mark of genius from BMW was to hide any sort of nascent electronics technologies. The interior controls were solid chunks of aluminum - which brought a sense of elegant timelessness. Because of this, the build quality and of course one of the greatest V8 engines BMW has ever produced, the Z8 will continue to rise in appreciable value.
Class, Elegance and Beauty..... Combined with BMW Engineering and you have everything you need in a Sports Car.... I have always loved this Car....And would be my choice from Tony`s collection..... Great video Jonny.... :-))
Apart from the E39 "M" Touring, I'd say this was my favourite BMW, ... EVER! Certainly, if my garage was needing 2 BMW's, then these would be the main contenders! They would cover my EVERY NEED!
Was so excited for the video but thought to myself early on "Those things have to be worth a fair amount... bet Tony lives somewhere pretty fancy". Cut to the 6:00 mark and I recognised Alderly Edge straight away, long before Jonny mentioned it... that tracks. Grew up not far from here and still travel back now and again as it's not far from where my parents retired to.
After seeing that, I couldn't make my mind up on what to focus on... the beautiful car, or the roads I know well enough to be able to piece together the difference between the order in which the drive was recorded vs the order it had been edited into 😂
Fell in love with this car as a young lad - engine from my then dream car put into a retro-inspired sports coupe that James Bond drove... how could you not?! Only a few years later, I learnt to drive on the roads Jonny is taking it. Beautiful!
02:00 - Never mind about that thing, check out the classic Mini. 👍🤓
Tony's Mini was utterly mint
You crack me up , the funnies you drop are so well timed suits my sense of humour .
Absolutely stunning car, in every way possible. Love the sound of that V8.
Made my day this as ever - quality video, great chats with the owner and what a car....I had one as my screensaver and deleted it only recently....still have aspirations of ownership, natch. Cheers Jonny
Most elegant retro design car ever made. Stunning and ageless!
Thank you for featuring this Z8 and to Tony for making it possible. I love every aspect of the Z8 from every angle. Even the interior is special. 20 years on, I think it's one of BMW's finest cars that will continue to look special 20 years from now. Great video!
Appreciate you commenting Aaron. It did feel like a special car, but not one you can immediately put your finger on.
Thank you Jonny, you've just confirmed exactly what I thought, it is a wholly wonderful car, subtle and discreet rather than a shouty monster 😀😀. As for another car I think the Ginetta as an equally unusual beast
What a magnificent car - the perfect sunday cruiser. Looks amazing, especially with the wheels. Fitting the supple Alpina suspension is good choice, and the manual gearbox is the cherry on top.
Thanks
Love the Z8 drive episode. I have never seen one out in the wild but I am sure they’re around. I would have loved to see you drive the Maserati Merak.
Jonny wants to go back for the Merak and Samuri
What a beautiful timeless design. Far better than all these suvs we suffer today! Would love to see a video on the Maserati Merak btw🤞👍
Soo...you're saying that this car is 'better' than a completely different size, shape, type, and design function vehicle then....!?
Presumably, then, you'd be happy to take this car to the DIY store and throw a load of building materials, compost, plants, construction timber etc in the back....or take three kids on holiday with camping gear, bicycles, luggage, dog...??!
I know it's 'fashionable' to hate SUVs in their various forms, but, y'know.....'horses for courses'!
I’m more of an Audi fan these days but I remember this car. What a classic 👌
Thank you Jonny & Tony excellence in the motor world. Cheers
As always Jonny you’re the best in the business. Cool car, they look even better today.
Not sure about that Mr Biggles, but thank you for watching!
The navigation head unit looks to be an early Bosch unit - I had the same same exact system as a factory option in a 2.6l V6 Ford Mondeo Ghia (German spec car) from 1998. I remember the monochrome display with the arrows and the voice directions very well. The actual maps were on CD-ROM at the time (separate drive unit in the boot) and you needed a separate one for each country in Europe if you wanted full road detail. Some areas (like Northern Ireland) were not even mapped at all at that time!
I think you have a spot on memory. More to the point, when was the last time you saw a 2.6 Mondeo?
@@TheLateBrakeShow Good point! 😂
Had a 5 series in 06 still didn’t have Ireland on the navi then. Like an old map “here be monsters “ 😊
@@davidB997 Strange that, I had an Audi A6 Avant in 06, which had all of Europe - including Ireland - on it no problem. How am I sure of that? I live in Ireland? 😉
(I thought all the German marques used the same Navteq maps back then anyway?)
This was the very first sportscar in the World with a build-in navigation... So yes, a tad archaic. Let's not forget the car was presented at the end of 1998! Navigation systems were very uncommon. Look at the navigation of the Ferrari 360 Modena of 2 years later: same story.
As soon as I heard it had a 5.0 V8 I was like yes please. A few years ago Doug DeMuro reviewed one and again yes please, very classy car. Great episode Jonny
Technically, it's a 4.9, but point taken.
Thank you Jonny. One box ticked for you 👏
Would've liked to have seen the bike collection as well.
Just realised you’re driving around my neck of the woods! Recognised roads between Alderley Edge, Sandbach, Congleton…
That's it. We were lucky with the weather - black clouds kept chasing us.
The first BMW I have ever seen that has a smile. What a lovely looking car.
Great review Jonny. Z8 and the Ford GT would be the 2 to drive. Very unique cars from the early 00s era
That was cool. When the z8 was released the local dealer got one in the showroom. The first time I saw the car I was just stunned by the beauty of it. It really is a piece of art. I still feel that way. My friend worked there at the time, so I was allowed to actually sit in it... and make v8 noises 👀 Sadly never drove or even had a ride in one and I`m pretty sure I`ll never own one, but that`s ok. It will remain extra special that way. If there is somebody out there who is willing to donate one, I will accept though... 👍
That red leather in combination with brushed aluminum is really giving the interior an exotic feel and look! ❤
Greetings from Scotland! 2 cars I have properly lusted after in my life - a Ferrari Dino and a BMW Z8! For me, absolute perfection on wheels!
I’m Scottish and have driven a lot of the roads for pleasure but also one of my favourite roads is Thirsk to Scarborough through Pickering , Thornton le Dale etc I drive because of family memories on holiday. This would be perfect for that road on a summers day just enjoying the road in no rush to visit the seaside 😁👍 Beautiful Car especially in Silver.
I've just seen one z8 in real life and it always make my head play Bond Theme and always make me drive a bit faster after i've seen it.. they are stunning and so raw.!! Awsome video👊
Gorgeous car. I'm not generally a fan of BMWs but I've always loved these. So much so that I have several diecast models of it! I've seen one in person once when I was on holiday in Germany - it's certainly a rare beast.
I do wonder if Fisker - assuming he did the interior as well as the exterior - took some inspiration from 1990s Fiat group cars. The dashboard shares cues with the coupé Fiat (body colour panel and push button starter) which of course Bangle did the exterior of, and the Lancia Y (central instrument pod). Regardless, I agree that as a whole the Z8 has aged well. It could star in a new Bond film tomorrow and the man on the street would still think it some new offering from Munich (modest kidney grills aside!). I also think this car must have served as inspiration for the Weismann Roadster. Excellent film Jonny. And thanks again to Tony for facilitating it.
Still love this car a lot in 2023 since it's still basically a two-seater E39 M5, and I love the E39 M5 a lot. The closest modern BMW we can get with such a formula today is the F91 M8 Cabriolet.
Love to see Jonny driving near Jodrell Bank, some of my favourite roads near my home. And glad to know there's a Z8 living not far from me. One day I might cross it on the road.
The "Samuri" would be an interesting drive.
i have never seen underrated opinions aboy this car... it has it all
What a collection! What a car! For the next drive....I'd love to see more of his Ginetta.
The sound from the engine ❤
Tony is a top guy, such a car (and bike) nutter! More power to him, converting his pounds into forward motion! Thanks again Jonny.
I had one in triple black (black exterior, interior dash and seats - no pale colour inserts). I absolutely loved it. I bought it from a pawn broker just outside Atlanta for $78K. It had 10K miles on it. Sold it three/four years later for the same amount with 20K miles on it thinking I was a shrewd negotiator. Miss it to this day. I had problems with a VANOS failure and also, water ingress due to a blocked drain tube. The water backed up in to space behind the passenger seat, which is where quite a bit of electrical stuff was located, perhaps even a fuse box, but my memory is hazy on that. I've been fortunate enough to own some nice cars over the years but nothing comes close to the Z8 for me. It was a good time in my life and the car was a perfect companion for those hedonistic days.
Love these. The halcyon years of BMW of engineering obsession. Also seen in the Z3M coupe of the time.
I know, for BMW it was like a modernised version of their 1955-1960 '507' & '503' models. But looks wise, it also gives off a little Jaguar 'E-Type' vibe... I love these cars!! Well, I love any sleek, 2 door coupe/cabriolets. right from the Triumph Spitfire & Stag, Sunbeam Alpine, E-Type, MG B, Midget etc and many more.. 👍
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Utterly fabulous. Was out of my price range then and still is now!
A new subscriber. I love your show. The most interesting people interviewed.
I have a Z8 Alpina.. You are spot on in your drive take.
I've always thought the Z8 was a lovely looking car, and no, it hasn't aged in my opinion, way way better than anything that BMW have to offer today on looks.
I saw one in gas town in Vancouver BC, it was the perfect setting for it. Beautiful car.
Always thought it was a special looking car especially as it has the overall look of the 507 and as you said, really one of the first retro/tribute designs and with a lottery win, one of only 3 or 4 BMW's I'd ever consider owning I think.
I thought the same as you... I'd maybe never get to drive one, and if I did what would it be like and would it be disappointing?
Once again with another of your single car reviews Jonny, you had it all covered and answered all of my questions...and many more.
As you asked about which of Tony's cars I'd like to drive/own/use for the weekend...1. 240z Samuri 2. 3.0 CSL 3. RS2000 4. Z8.
Thanks again to you and TLBS team and of course thanks to Tony for sharing his collection with all of us, probably my favourite car cave.
Love the intro Johnny! Very enigmatic and Hollywood and almost Chris Nolen’esc 👏👌
Hi Jonny. I left a like and meant to comment a few days ago... Anyway, after I listened to the latest Smith N Sniff podcast and the mention of your test drive of the Z8, I correct myself. I love the Z8's styling, especially the front. More than all of that, it's such a subtle car: the gruffly (E39) V8 is all there, but it doesn't shout because (unlike modern BMWs) it doesn't need to. It's a pity BMW only sold it in LHD cos it would've gone down a treat in Oz, the land of the RHD V8. It is, as you (and Harry M) say, a misunderstood and timeless car.
Great video Johnny, not rushed, nicely done
I remember when the Z8 came out and I fell for it immediately. It was much better looking (and engined) than the Z3. I loved the mix of modern and classic.
Incidentally, if it has Alpina wheels, it may also have Alpina spec’d suspension and from what I’ve read, they’re a dab hand making their cars ride amazingly without losing the handling balance of the donor BMW.
Another great video Johnny 👍🏾
Alpina susp was fitted, but this car isn't an Alpina (thank goodness)
@@TheLateBrakeShow not an Alpina fan then….? 😅
I never liked the that style of Alpina wheel, but loved the turbine style they used on the B3 and B5’s in the 90’s.
Very privileged to have worked for BMW AG in Los Angeles in 1997-1999 as a test driver and was allowed to only drive the prototype once at 5am and go out of town so people couldn't see it. Was silver and red like in the video.
Also had the E39 M5 prototype at same time which the Z8 is based upon. Fun times
I always LIKE before watching. It's a Jonny video!
One gotta remember, the M5 V8 is a high revving engine, shame Jonny seems to miss out on the HP’s here. Lovely lovely car!! Rear lights were actually neon, not LED. But it wasn’t the first ’modern’ car with a push button start - that was Fiat Coupe 20VT LE (1998) Another Bangle!
Another brilliant video Jonny, expertly delivered😎
This is one of my favourite cars of all time from every angle.
I have always like BMW motorcycles, Siri six, 600, 750 k they are just beautifully finished. I have always worked on my own bikes just because I can’t really afford the prices to work with BMW agent, but when they build a sports car and open top, they really do pull their finger out even with the heart of the 2002 BMW the finish the chrome do everything I’m not a great car lover as I say, but this ticks every box for me. Really enjoy this.
Michael
Man, what a thing. What a noise…. For the other car, the CSL. Awesome..
Top intro Johnny 😂
I used to PDI all the new BMWs that came into our dealership. Z8's too. Included a test drive before they were shipped out. They were always bought somewhere else. The Alpina was my favorite because it just felt more of a relaxed cruiser with the standard V8 and automatic (yes I was around 50 at the time). I still have a set of the Alpina wheel covers. The Alpina was delivered with thick plastic covers on the wheels, for protection during shipping, that were secured with tie wraps. Neat little souvenir.
I would love to see you take the 3.0csl out as never got to drive the one I painted. I did drive a z8 but only around our yard so not really able to gauge it. I am lucky enough to own an E39 M5 though and that engine is a masterpiece.
Like the bond style theme tune 👍
Damn looks superb and as always great video Jonny and the team 🤗😎
😄 I spend a lot of my time not fully committed. Love that car, interior especially.
Becoming the most favourite channel for cars at the moment 👌
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I still got one got it really cheap from a old man many many years ago. Worth alot today. Its in storage with some of my other gems
Great video Jonny and long over due on a gorgeous BMW easily my favourite. I was lucky enough to sell a few used examples of these in the early 2000’s whilst working at a BMW centre. Always interesting customers. One chap bought a new one as he had been left disappointed by his Porsche Centre. 8 weeks later they managed to magically find a 911 Turbo allocation and the Z8 had to go. The BMW network didn’t understand them then and his £86000 turned into £60000 having covered a few hundred miles. He is probably still a Porsche man after that. Another day I was despatched to a famous Bentley showroom in London to meet a chap who was selling his. A great day driving back up North, hood down with a M15 personal number plates on. The looks and positive comments when I pulled up at home were priceless. The nicest looking one was sold to a chap in Belfast. Black with ivory. It was his second, the first went in a divorce as his Mrs knew how much he loved his Z8. Hexagon BMW saw the value in them, once production ended and got a few at handy money, they kept on creeping up in value. The cheapest one I saw was £40k, now look where they are. Hindsight, that rare thing.
Still struggle with the headlights but the rest is gorgeous. The back end particularly just has such a great presence about it. Wrt to which of his cars in his garage. Own the BMW CSL & the Healey for a drive. So much tough competition though. Great episodes.
I had a customer who turned up in a z8 last summer for a bit of paint. My mate really pissed him off by referring to it as a Z3 four times and swearing he'd "seen at least 10 on 'trader for less than three grand" 😮
Whoops.... Awks 😬