2003 Alpina V8 Roadster

The BMW Z8 was a very retro approach to reinterpret the iconic BMW 507 roadster which was built from 1956 to 1959. Many of that original car's lines can be found in this modern interpretation. The Z8 was penned by Henrik Fisker whose design career began in 1989 at BMW Technik GmbH.

However, this car is a BMW Alpina Roadster V8. For over 30 years, Alpina has been producing unique cars with the support of BMW to provide cars for connoisseurs. Alpina provides options and configurations which BMW simply does not offer. In the case of the Z8, Alpina added an automatic transmission combined with 4.8-liter V8 from the 5-series Alpina B10 V8 S to create a new touring car. The V8 produces 375 horsepower at 5800 RPM and has higher torque at lower revs than the normal BMW engine which not only suits the automatic gearbox but also gives the roadster effortless 'stoplight' acceleration. Alpina claims 0 to 60 mph in 5.0 seconds. The top speed is limited to 161 mph to assure stability.

The exterior of the car remains largely unchanged from the original Z8 design because 'it is a masterpiece which should not be touched' according to Alpina's Andy Bovensiepen. One exterior feature which is distinctive is the 20-inch wheels wearing ultra-low-profile Michelins. Inside the car, there are further indications of Alpina's involvement via numbered plaque and Alpina logo embroidery.

Production ended with only 555 Alpina Roadsters being manufactured worldwide.