Rare BMW Z1 with just 9,342 kilometres for sale by auction

Car & Classic, the largest online marketplace for classic and niche vehicles in Europe, is gearing up to auction a rare 1991 BMW Z1 with a mere 9,342 kilometers on its odometer. Originally owned by a BMW dealership in La Spezia, Italy since its debut in 1991, the car has been meticulously maintained, with its current Italian owner preserving its originality, including the Pirelli tires.

Beyond its distinctive doors, the 1991 BMW Z1 stands as BMW’s first open-top sports car in a generation, following the discontinuation of the 507 in 1960. Emerging from BMW’s new ‘Technik’ division, the Z1 boasted numerous innovative features and technologies, notably its vertically sliding doors, which not only facilitated easy access in tight parking spaces but also added a visually striking and headline-grabbing element when driven with the doors retracted.

While initially conceived as a concept in 1986, the Z1 wasn’t initially slated for production. However, due to overwhelming popularity, BMW announced its market release in 1987, resulting in approximately 35,000 preorders. The Z1, with its unconventional design and handcrafted construction, faced slow production, and coupled with the success of Mazda’s mass-produced Mk.1 MX-5, production ceased after a limited run of 8,000 units within three years.

Despite modest sales figures, the Z1 received critical acclaim, with LJK Setright praising its “marvelous balance in everything from chassis dynamics to control-matching,” deeming it the work of masters. Achieving this balance through its front-mid engine placement, near-perfect weight distribution, and ‘Z Axle,’ the Z1 left a lasting impression.

While some minor cracks and scuffs on the Z1’s 278 Traumschwarz thermoplastic bodywork may require attention, the overall condition is good, reflecting its low mileage. The interior, featuring a camouflage pattern material, period radio, and fully operational roof and doors, is well-preserved. The car comes with its original user manual in Italian, service document, Italian registration, and toolkit.

The Z1’s 2.5-liter M20 straight-six petrol engine and Getrag five-speed manual gearbox are in excellent working order, producing 168bhp at 5,800rpm. With a top speed of 140mph and a 0-62mph time of 7.9 seconds, the Z1 served as BMW’s halo car in the late 80s and early 90s. Its rarity has made it a sought-after gem for BMW enthusiasts. The auction for the 1991 BMW Z1 on Car & Classic is set to begin on October 1 and will run until October 8, with an estimated auction value between £50k and £60k based on a previous sale on the platform.