Super performer and supercar though it may be, the BMW Z8 is an unusual car - not just for its retro looks, but also beneath the skin. One reason it looks so different is that BMW wanted it to be the spiritual successor to the magnificent BMW 507, the svelte two-seat roadster designed by Albrecht Graf von Goertz in 1955. The Z8 may look too old-fashioned for many, but it is still an extremely quick supercar, which can reach 60 mph in 4.2 seconds; maximum speed is limited to 155 mph.
With 400 bhp from its V-8 50 liter engine, the Z8 was certain to be a powerful performer. In fact, it has the same engine, transmission and basic suspension geometry as the M5 sedan, which is no mean performer. However, the ace in the Z8's pack is its aluminum construction, which reduced weight by about 500 lb compared with the sedan, so it is no surprise that the performance is stunning.
Variable valve gear and an exquisite exhaust note
This engine was tuned to produce an exhaust note that many car enthusiasts have called a “mechanical symphony.” To enhance that symphony, engineers deliberately matched the exhaust note to engine load. While cruising, it is a deep rumble. When the driver “pushes” the engine, the sound mounts to a thrilling crescendo, all the while complying with international sound standards. To improve mid-range torque, BMW applied its VANOS (Variable Nockenwellen Steuerung translating to variable camshaft control or variable valve timing) to the engine. Maximum torque is 369 lbs ft at 3,800 rpm.
A Getrag 6-speed manual transmission with specially reinforced clutch is mated to the Z8’s engine, and transmits the power to the rear wheels in line with the BMW tradition.
The Z8 is indeed a marvel. Its striking styling links tradition with contemporary standards. Taking the tradition of the 507's aluminum body into 21st-century form, all the Z8’s body panels, except its bumpers and door hinges, are aluminum. Here BMW followed in the footsteps of the Audi A8 and Lotus Elise and made the use of lightweight alloy a for the space frame. This concept combines light weight with torsional rigidity.
Extruded beams and aluminum panels welded and riveted together
The space frame is made of extruded beams and aluminum panels, which reduce weight by 30% compared with steel. It provides an extremely stable platform for precise suspension tuning, and contributes to excellent driver feedback.
The central frame’s stiffness also allows much lower side sills than is normally the case for a roadster. Pairs of unique aluminum Y arms that connect the Z8’s front and rear sections to its space frame provide much of the torsional rigidity and protection in case of an unfortunate accident. In a crash, the arms are designed to crumple, absorbing energy and transferring forces to the sturdy center floor pan.
The exterior sports a strong familial resemblance to the 507, itself the successor to the original prewar 328 roadster.
Despite its homage to interiors of old, the Z8 instrument and interior layout works remarkably well. There is an unobstructed view of the Z8's long hood, while the retro touches are combined with excellent switchgear placement and a power telescoping steering wheel and power seats, allowing for a modern and comfortable driving position.
Without doubt, the BMW Z8 is a remarkable car, which is extremely fast and drives well. The concept was right, the use of the aluminum space frame reduces weight, and the mechanicals are up to the usual BMW standards. As for the styling, either you like it or you don't; but either way this is one super sports car.
