1991 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, developed by BMW Technik GmbH, 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. The running gear was more conventional - MacPherson strut independent front suspension being complemented by a wishbone set-up at the rear - while motive 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 BMW Z1 was first registered on 26th February 1991 and was supplied by Biancar of Milan. Finished in red with black suede/leather interior, this has to be one of the most original examples in existence. Having covered what is believed to be a genuine 24,354 kilometres from new, the general condition of the car is exemplary and is hard to fault, being as good on top as it is underneath. Supplied with its original service booklets and manuals, this Z1 is an ideal modern classic for the summer that amalgamates quirky styling with practical and reliable BMW mechanicals.

Buyers should be aware that this lot has formed part of a large private collection and has been stood for some time in a heated environment, as such, some remedial works may be required. A light service has just been carried out by marque specialists Terry Keys and a mechanical report from Terry Keys will be supplied in the history file at the auction. BMW Z1s are a rare species and this delightful example is arguably one of the finest examples on the road today.