2003 BMW Alpina Z8, 20k miles, MT5 Location: USA (Mecum Auction) Note: No. 95 out of 555 produced Auction: 24 Jan 2014 Estimate: $180,000 - $210,000 USD Originally designed as a styling exercise inspired by the classic 1956-59 BMW 507, the BMW Z8 roadster combined the M5’s incredible 4.9L/394 HP V-8 with a tough 6-speed manual transmission and athletic handling. As fine a machine as it was in the best BMW tradition, for 2003 BMW turned to its Bavarian partners at Alpina, who since 1964 have been charged by the mother company with enhancing anointed models with powertrain and handling refinements while carefully maintaining that mature Teutonic character that defines every BMW. The largely hand-built Z8 Alpina represented a change of direction for the roadster from knife-edged performer to upper-level Grand Tourer. The original S62 4.9L V-8 was retired in favor of an Alpina-tuned 4.6L V-8 motor from the Alpina E39 B10 V-8 S sedan. While the 4.6 delivered 15 fewer horses at lower revs, with 368 lb-ft all the way from 3100 to 5000 it was perfect for use with a 5-speed Steptronic transmission. The transformation from road burner to sporting GT was furthered by recalibrating the suspension for suppler ride qualities, and the Z8’s 18-inch wheels and run-flat tires were replaced with 20-inch alloys with conventional rubber. Alpina also left its touch inside with higher-quality Soft Nappa leather upholstery and special Alpina gauges. This beautiful BMW Z8 Alpina Roadster is number 95 of 555 produced for the world market. A two-owner Florida car, it has been driven 20,000 miles and is finished in the German tradition in Silver paint with a Black interior. The Z8 Alpina’s generous equipment includes power steering and brakes, a power soft top and auxiliary hard top, air conditioning, cruise control, power windows and locks and an AM/FM stereo with CD player.
Posted on: Mon, 29 Dec 2014 19:31:45 +0000
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