Z1
The BMW Z1, produced between 1989 and 1991, is an iconic roadster that has left a significant mark in automotive history with its innovative design and cutting-edge technologies. Featuring vertically retractable doors and removable plastic body panels, the Z1 captivated enthusiasts worldwide. This page brings together the versions referenced by ScanRacer, including years, variants, rarities, and available detailed pages, providing a comprehensive view of the model.
Variants by year
1990
1988
Model summary
Data from the ScanRacer library, organized to compare versions quickly.
Model introduction
The BMW Z1, produced between 1989 and 1991, is an iconic roadster that has left a significant mark in automotive history with its innovative design and cutting-edge technologies. Featuring vertically retractable doors and removable plastic body panels, the Z1 captivated enthusiasts worldwide. This page brings together the versions referenced by ScanRacer, including years, variants, rarities, and available detailed pages, providing a comprehensive view of the model.
History
The BMW Z1 was developed by BMW Technik GmbH, a division dedicated to innovation, and was unveiled to the public at the 1987 Frankfurt Motor Show. Production began in October 1988 in Munich, with a total of 8,000 units produced until June 1991. This two-seater roadster is distinguished by its vertically retractable doors, a first in the automotive industry, and the use of removable plastic body panels, allowing for increased customization and simplified maintenance. Under the hood, the Z1 is equipped with a 2.5-liter inline six-cylinder engine producing 170 horsepower, delivering remarkable performance for its time. Although the Z1 was not produced in large numbers, it paved the way for BMW's roadster lineage, influencing subsequent models such as the Z3 and Z4. (press.bmwgroup.com)
Generations
The BMW Z1 represents the first generation of BMW's Z series, introduced in 1989. Although production was limited to 8,000 units, the Z1 served as a foundation for the development of subsequent models such as the Z3, launched in 1995, and the Z4, introduced in 2002. These models inherited the innovative spirit of the Z1 while benefiting from technological advancements and design improvements of later generations. Thus, the Z1 laid the groundwork for BMW's roadster lineage, influencing the design and features of the models that followed. (press.bmwgroup.com)
Key differences
The BMW Z1 is distinguished by several unique features: - **Vertically retractable doors**: Unlike traditional doors, the Z1's doors lower vertically into the sills, providing easy entry and exit and enhanced side-impact protection. - **Removable plastic body panels**: The side panels and doors are made of thermoplastic, allowing for easy customization and simplified maintenance. - **Multi-link rear suspension**: The Z1 is one of the first BMWs to adopt a multi-link rear suspension, improving directional stability and control of anti-squat and anti-dive. - **2.5-liter inline six-cylinder engine**: Derived from the BMW 325i, this engine produces 170 horsepower, offering dynamic performance for a roadster of its time. These innovations contributed to making the Z1 a groundbreaking model, influencing the designs and technologies of subsequent BMW roadsters. (press.bmwgroup.com)
Photo recognition
To identify a BMW Z1, look for the following features: - **Vertically retractable doors**: The doors lower into the sills, providing a unique entry and exit. - **Removable plastic body panels**: The side panels and doors are made of thermoplastic, allowing for easy customization. - **Distinctive design**: The Z1 has a low and wide silhouette, with flared fenders and a revised grille integrated into the front bumper. - **Specific dimensions**: Length of 3,921 mm, width of 1,690 mm, and height of 1,227 mm. These unique design elements make it easy to identify the BMW Z1 among other models. (press.bmwgroup.com)
Important versions
The BMW Z1 was produced in a single version, the base model, without specific variants. However, owners could customize their vehicle with removable body panels, allowing them to change the car's color according to their preferences. (press.bmwgroup.com)
References
- BMW Z1 - Back to the future +++ 25 years of the BMW Z1BMW Group
- https://www.bmw-z.com/bmw-z1.htmlbmw-z.com
- https://www.auto-data.net/en/bmw-z1-e30-generation-2029auto-data.net
- https://www.auto-data.net/en/bmw-z1-e30-2.5-170hp-9925auto-data.net
- https://www.press.bmwgroup.com/usa/article/detail/T0127412EN_US/back-to-the-future-25-years-of-the-bmw-z1?language=en_USpress.bmwgroup.com
- https://www.bmwblog.com/2018/11/10/bmw-z1-the-origin-of-the-modern-day-bmw-roadster-family/bmwblog.com
Technical specifications
Structured data available for versions linked to this model.
| Version | Power | Torque | Top speed | Drivetrain | Fuel |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Base | 125 KW @ 5800 RPM 170 HP @ 5800 RPM 168 BHP @ 5800 RPM | 164 lb-ft @ 4300 RPM 222 Nm @ 4300 RPM | 139.8 mph (225 km/h) | Rear Wheel Drive / 5-Speed manual | Gasoline |
Frequently asked questions
- What years was the BMW Z1 produced?
- ScanRacer's referenced versions cover 1988 - 1990.
- What is the power output of the BMW Z1?
- The sourced technical data lists 125 KW @ 5800 RPM 170 HP @ 5800 RPM 168 BHP @ 5800 RPM.