BMW Z8 (E52) 2000-2003
It’s no coincidence the Z8 appears on the main page of our german website. The BMW Z8 combines the characteristics of classic, racy sports cars from the 50ies and 60ies with modernity - and celebrates yet independent, timeless style. The design quotes from both, the BMW 507 and the Jaguar E-Type, but the interpretation is unique. The will to esthetic design is shown in virtually every detail of this roadster. Chapeau!.... A lucky guy who calls this one his own. There is hardly any other sports car whose performance potential is celebrated in such a sophisticated way - whilst at the same time also being robust and authentic. Bavarian Legend! A real (man's) dream car!
Product Portfolio
You want to buy some German engineered awesomeness, but you’re not from the United States or Canada? Feel free to contact us, too.
Issues & Improvements
Issue1# / PVC-sheet contains polycarbonate
The Z8 is the only convertible in the world equipped with a 1/16 inch PVC rear window that contains polycarbonate. The polycarbonate aims to improve the scratch resistance. In fact, it might have anti-scratching qualities but also some negative side effects. The polycarbonate hardens and changes the form of the top when left open for a while.The rear window gets dented from inside and the fabrics gets pulled out of the bulge of the rear window. It looks as if intestines were hanging out - definitely not nice to look at.
The unfortunate in all this is: It becomes a lot worse when it heats up! There is no other way than spending more than $ 1,200.00 (!) on a new original window! It comes with a zip / adhesive system to mount the window. But beware! Firstly, it’s not as simple to zip up as a jacket zipper. And secondly: Do you know how old the window is? When was it produced? The plasticizers evaporate even when the window is stored. You might have solved the problem for a short period of time but have to get the next window quickly.
Improvement 1#
Our Z8- soft top comes with a conventional green tinted PVC sheet with piping and without polycarbonate.
Issue 2# / closing the convertible top
When closing the top, the cloth tends to get clamped between the claws of the top linkage. The affected part is located centrical above both side windows. This would inevitably damage the top. Therefore, BMW invented a fairly complex cable system, which is sewn onto the soft top and led along the linkage. Apparently, long-term tests haven’t been made for this system and the cables tend to break very easily. This leads to clearly visible creases and other irregularities on the fabric.
Improvement 2#
We have developed a permanent remedy in form of a special-shaped reinforced material that is sewn onto the top from the inside - totally invisible from the outside. Thus, the whole cable system is no longer necessary and the soft top opens and closes without taking damage.
Experiences and Impressions of the Z8 convertible top installation
A clear statement full of self-confidence: WE are the Z8 experts. And further: The Z8 soft top is only for those who know it very well. The Installation is tricky and complex. At various stages of the installation, helpers are needed. Otherwise you take the risk of damaging this wonderful car.
