1990 BMW Z1

The first BMW Z1 (Z standing for 'Zunkuft', German for 'future') was shown at the 1987 Frankfurt Motor show. Initial demand was so strong that 5,000 orders were placed even before production began. The car featured a unique door arrangement where the doors instead of opening outward, dropped down into the car's sills. The chassis was specially designed for the Z1 and features a number of innovative features such as removable body panels; continuously zinc welded seams, a composite under-tray and the unusual dropped doors. It was also the first car to feature the famous BMW 'Z' rear axle.

The rest of the running gear was more conventional - MacPherson strut independent front suspension being complemented by a wishbone set-up at the rear - whilst power was supplied by a 2.5-litre 170bhp version of BMW's overhead-cam straight six engine, driving the rear wheels via a five-speed manual gearbox. Top speed was around 140mph, with 60mph coming up in 7.8 seconds. Production began slowly in 1988 at the rate of six cars per day, ending in 1991 after 8,000 units had been built. Demand was strong from the start despite a UK list price of £40,000, and today this landmark model continues to be highly sought after by BMW collectors.

This lovely Lhasa Green metallic UK example has covered a mere 35,000 miles and boasts a full service history with the last 9 years of serving being undertaken by Rybrook BMW, whilst under the long term ownership of our vendor.

In October 2013 the car was subject to a major service, which not only involved a full fluid change and inspection but also included a cambelt replacement. Evidence of this can be seen in the large supporting history file, which contains various MoTs and invoices relating to the car.

The Z1 is an ideal modern classic with low production numbers, quirky styling and reliable BMW mechanicals. It is starting to show potential as a real collector's car for the Zunkuft (future)!