The first
BMW has a rich history in the field of roadsters. One looked even more peculiar than the other, but the Z1 was without a doubt one of the most special.
Many will point to the BMW Z8 as the most extravagant ‘Z’, but the Z1 was also something special. This first in a now famous bloodline appeared in 1989 and, unlike the Z8, did not necessarily clearly hark back to an open BMW from the past. On the contrary; the Z1 was primarily a contemporary, idiosyncratic creative outburst. The most striking design detail was not even immediately visible: the doors of the Z1 disappeared into the bottom when you wanted to get in or out. Another remarkable detail was that the body was largely made of plastic. The nose of the Z1 almost looked somewhat Italian, but we are dealing with a car designed by a Dutchman (Harm Lagaay) here.
We are used to some remarkable cars from BMW, but the Z1 was just a little too remarkable. At least, to the taste of the general public. It did not become a bestseller, although the price undoubtedly played an important role in this. Only 8,000 were built. The Z1 was already a rare sight when new, and now even more so. All the more reason for AutoWeek forum member Klassiekerrijder to recently come across this copy along the road.
It is also a BMW Z1 in the extra rare color ‘Fun Yellow’. Most Z1s were red, black or green. The owner, who acquired the Z1 imported in 2016 in the same year, absolutely has something extra special in his possession. The Z1 also seems to be in pretty good condition. We do have to complain about the yellow headlights, but oh well, if that’s all … On to a lot of nice summer rides, where the 170 hp 2.5-liter six-in-line can nicely let its characteristic rumble be heard.