The BMW Z1 profile

Making its debut at the 1987 IAA, the BMW Z1 was BMW’s first roadster since the legendary 507 from 1955. Two years after its motor show appearance, the concept car became a reality.

By 1991, 8000 examples of the car, which cost over 80,000 marks, were delivered worldwide. For comparison: a Porsche 911 at that time cost around 120,000 marks. The “Z” in its name comes from the BMW Technik Center, which created the BMW Z1 as its ‘Zukunft’, or first project. It was not only revolutionary because of those retractable doors but also the plastic body, which makes it particularly light and corrosion-resistant.

The 1980s appeal of the BMW Z1

Even getting into the Z1 is a unique experience thanks to those doors that disappear at the push of a button. Full of typical ‘80s charm, those familiar with the E30 3 Series might recognise some components such as the air vents and window switches. However, the seats are bespoke. Grabbing the three-spoke steering wheel and playing a Billy Idol cassette will instantly transport you back to the decade of excess.

How does this 30 year-old car drive? Far better than you’d expect of an ageing classic. Turn the ignition key and the 2.5-litre six-cylinder comes to life. The engine is placed behind the front axle, creating a front mid-engine layout, which promises perfect weight distribution. This was the only engine available unless you went to Alpina for a little more displacement and power.

Driving the BMW Z1

That silky in-line six from BMW still impresses today. It is a good cruiser, but this car is all about putting a smile on your face. After 3000rpm the engine really comes into its own while producing a fantastic noise, and the smooth five-speed gearbox delivers plenty of driving pleasure. Revving this car out to 7000rpm is joyous, so much so that you grab another gear to do it all over again. The BMW Z1 only weighs 1.25 tons, making it agile through the bends too.

In case you were wondering, you can indeed drive the car with its doors down. It’s totally legal too thanks to  the car’s reinforced frame. However, the doors are also the biggest shortcoming of the roadster as any repairs require expert knowledge.

On motorways the BMW Z1 doesn’t feel that comfortable. Especially at higher speeds, it is rather uncivilised. Speaking of the roof, the manually operated fabric hood keeps out the rain, but not road noise.

Maintaining a BMW Z1

As mentioned, the drivetrain comes from the well-known BMW models such as the E30 and E34. The supply of parts for the six-cylinder engine is not a problem, but the man-hours required for some jobs can make them costly.

Look for any leaks from the gearbox or engine. Small seepages aren’t an issue, but puddles under the car should be taken seriously. Be sure to regularly service the car and replace the timing belt ever five years or 25,000km. If this snaps you’ll be looking for a new engine, something that’s quite rare these days. Should a toothed belt for those distinctive doors break, you will need an expert to repair them.

Conclusion

BMW Z1s are a rare sight on the road today, with many now residing in personal collections. This car’s legacy is the spawning of BMW’s Z range that went on to include the Z3, Z4 and Z8. Doors down, roof open, and Billy Idol on maximum volume! This roadster is worth celebrating.

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Text Oliver Grüneberg // Fotos BMW Group

Author: Classic Trader

Die Classic Trader Redaktion besteht aus Oldtimer-Enthusiasten, die Euch mit spannenden Geschichten versorgen. Kaufberatungen, unsere Traum Klassiker, Händlerportraits und Erfahrungsberichte von Messen, Rallyes und Events. #drivenbydesire View all posts by Classic Trader →